The 2009 Credit Card Study from Bankrate.com compares 20 of the leading credit cards on the fees, rates, penalties, and all the fine print that can confuse the average consumer when it comes to the plastic in their wallet. The study looked at 2 cards each, from 10 of the top issuers, and Bankrate found that the credit card terms varied based on the issuer, not by the card.

This study looks at credit cards today, before the new credit card law takes effect Feb. 22, 2010.

The study looked at 14 different criteria, including: raising rates, average daily balance, late fee range, overlimit fee, balance transfers, cash advance, payment fees, grace period, intro rate, how the rate is set, and minimum payment due.

The analysis of the study showed:
* Average late-fee range typically varies between a low of $20.70 to a high of $38.50;
* Average overlimit fee is $32;
* Average balance transfer is 3% with no cap on the fee amount;
* Six out of ten cards charge 3% on cash advances, however several top issuers, including Bank of America, US Bank, and Wells Fargo, charge more;
* Most issuers charge a fee, ranging from $10-$15, to make a payment by phone with a human employee;
* Seven out of ten issuers charge for a copy of the credit card statement, ranging from $3 to $10;
* Grace periods range from 20 to 25 days;

See more details of the study at http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/2009-credit-card-study-results.aspx

Stay tuned to ThinkGlink.com for more information about how the new credit card legislation will affect credit cards rates and fees for you.

Read More:Credit Card Legislation Means Changes For Companies And Consumers