January 3,2007

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  Car Rentals Without Plastic?

  If you attempt to rent an automobile without a credit card, be prepared for a nasty shock. Rental agencies (understandably) prefer the protection that credit transactions afford them as a merchant – namely, security against costly damage or theft. Many places should be willing to accept a debit card with a Visa or MasterCard logo if that's what you prefer. Those in dire straits credit-wise might also look into the benefits of a prepaid credit card.
  
  The catch? Without a "real" credit card number on file, many rental companies will place a hold of 25% - 35% greater than the actual cost of the rental on your card as a security. Be sure you have enough money in your account to cover this hold, lest you end up short somewhere else.
  
  
  
  
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