With the passing of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009, many financial analysts expected adverse impacts on the consumers.  It was predicted that it would be more difficult for consumers to apply for credit cards as well as make it more expensive for them to use. 

A recent study by the Center for Responsible Lending proved otherwise.  Based on the study, banks had not increased credit card interest rates any more than what was implemented before the new rules.  Nor was it increasingly difficult to obtain credit cards. 

The volume of direct-mail credit card offers to consumers remained consistent with economic environments.  The lack of change in this specific area showed there were no changes in the banks willingness to extend credit.    

However, the study did indicate an increase in credit card interest rates from card companies' solicitations.  Even though this is true, the average credit card interest rates paid by the consumers have not risen.  This showed that credit card companies are being more open on disclosing usage costs to consumers.  The study estimated $12.1 billion in hidden annual charges implemented by the credit card industry prior to the new regulations.

The group suggested that less price ambiguity would mean lower credit card costs in the end "by spurring completion and making it harder for issuers to manipulate or arbitrarily raise prices."

The Credit CARD Act of 2009 included many reforms aimed at protecting consumers and making credit card companies more transparent.  Included were provisions requiring that credit card companies notify consumers forty-five days prior to making any significant policy changes, requiring them to disclosure how long it will take cardholders to pay off their balances, and banned increases in credit card interest rates during the first twelve months after the card is issued.