Glossary of Credit Related Terms

Rebate/Enhancement Cards

Some cards include rebates on merchandise or cash-back offers depending on how much you charge annually. Others have enhancements that offer special benefits, such as frequent-flier miles or long-distance telephone discounts. When choosing a rebate card, be sure that the rebates the card provides add up to more than what you might save with a lower interest rate card.

Renegotiable Rate

A type of variable rate involving a renewable short- term "balloon" note. The interest rate on the loan is generally fixed during the term of the note, but when the balloon comes due, the lender may refinance it at a higher rate. In order for the loan to be fully amortized, periodic refinancing may be necessary.

Repossession

Forced, or voluntary surrender of merchandise as a result of the customer's failure to pay as promised. There are several types and descriptions of repossession actions.

Revolve

To carry over a debt from month to month, paying interest on the amount owed.

Revolving Account

An account which requires at least a specified minimum payment each month plus a service charge on the balance. As the balance declines, the amount of the service charge, or interest, also declines.

Revolving Balance

The total balance of all revolving credit accounts.

Revolving Credit

A credit agreement that allows consumers to pay all or part of the outstanding balance on a loan or credit card. As credit is paid off, it becomes available again to use for another purchase or cash advance.