Reading the fine print
Contracts and terms for money stress matters often hide important details in small type. These are the parts worth slowing down for.
Automatic renewal
Look for words like "renews automatically" or "continuous service." Note the renewal date and exactly how to cancel.
Fees and penalties
Search the document for "fee," "charge" and "penalty." Late fees, cancellation fees and processing fees add up.
Cancellation terms
Find how much notice you must give, how you must give it and whether any money is refundable.
Arbitration clauses
Some contracts say disputes must go to private arbitration instead of court, and may limit group lawsuits. Know whether yours does before you sign.
Changes to terms
Some agreements let the company change terms with notice. Check how they will notify you.
Signatures and blanks
Never sign a document with blank spaces. Draw a line through empty spaces or write "N/A," and get a copy of what you signed.