The new credit card rules are confusing...here are som tips:Stick to Fixed Card Rates. The new protections require advance notice of changes in your card terms and limit interest-rate increases on newly issued cards. But these safeguards may not apply if your cards carry introductory rates or other variable rate conditions. Avoid such variable terms if you can; if not, understand how these features work and be prepared for unpleasant rate increases.

Carefully Review Rewards Programs. Card companies are seeking additional revenue through new and expanded service fees and awards programs. These might be great for you but make sure you fully understand your financial exposure in these deals.

Foreign Use of  Credit Cards. New York Times personal finance columnist Ron Lieber and others have noted that the new rules do not curb credit-card companies' ability to sock you with stiff fees for using your card to make foreign transactions. This may not even require you to actually travel outside the U.S., as these fees could be applied for simply using your card to buy something from a foreign merchant. Not all credit cards impose such fees; find out if yours does before using the card for foreign transactions.

The Tyranny of a High Credit Rating. Under the new credit-card rules, the wise course of action often may be to cancel cards once you've received advance notice of unfavorable changes. While getting rid of cards can, in some circumstances, hurt your credit rating, this still may be the best decision for you. Carrying a high credit score is nice but having a high score is of greatest concern when you're seeking new loans or renegotiating terms on existing debts. So, if you are not going to be seeking new or revised loan and credit terms anytime soon, downsizing your credit-card portfolio by getting rid of high-rate cards is a sound decision.