Fixed rates on all cards, as well as on standard cards only, stayed put this week while variable rates dipped. For standard, gold and platinum cards, the average variable rate dropped 5 basis points to 12.05 percent, while the fixed rate remained at 11.89 percent. Standard-variable cards fell 7 basis points to 12.64 percent and standard-fixed cards hung on to 13.42 percent.

Americans amassed more credit card debt during the fourth quarter of 2007 than they did in the previous quarter, according to a new quarterly credit card analysis from TransUnion. The national average for credit card debt owed per person came to $1,694, an increase of 4.81 percent over the last quarter.

Looking at state averages, Alaskans had the most debt, at $2,342, which is slightly lower than their previous quarter's average. Iowans claimed the lowest average at $1,272.

-- Leslie McFadden

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