text: A A Lawmakers weren't able to prevent the country from losing its coveted AAA debt rating.
  John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education for SmartCredit.com, noted that the law now requires banks to apply any payments above the minimum required to the highest rate balance. That's so those new balances may get paid off faster. But any scenario involving volatility could make for some confusing statements. © Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.