Balances on credit cards are getting higher while variable APRs tick lower this week.

According to Bankrate.com's most recent survey of interest rates, the average annual percentage rate for variable-rate credit cards slipped 4 basis points to 14.44 percent from 14.48 percent; while the fixed rate remained at 13.85 percent for the third consecutive week.

News this week from six of the largest credit card issuers revealed that more Americans are falling behind on their credit card bills.

After more than two years of consistent improvement, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Discover, Capital One and American Express reported increases in the percentage of cardholders who are at least 30 days late on their monthly payments in September. While the upticks were modest, they could signal tougher times ahead for consumers.

If you're looking for better interest rates on your credit cards, you start the process right here at Bankrate.com. I'm Kristin Arnold.