Smart management of credit cards is an integral part of any sound personal finance plan. The key to accomplishing this critical goal is arming yourself with knowledge. Put the tips in the article that follows to work today, and you will be off to a great start in building a strong future.
Don’t fall for the introductory rates on credit cards when opening a new one. Be sure to ask the creditor what the rate will go up to after, the introductory rate expires. Sometimes, the APR can go up to 20-30% on some cards, an interest rate you definitely don’t want to be paying once your introductory rate goes away.
You surely wish to steer clear of late charges as well as over limit fees. Both are costly, but you will pay not only the fees tied to these mistakes, but your credit score will dip as well. Don’t pass your credit limit or you will suffer.
Do not sign up for a credit card because you see it as a way to fit in or as a status symbol. While it may seem like fun to be able to pull it out and pay for things when you have no money, you will regret it, when it is time to pay the credit card company back.
Keep a watchful eye on your balance. Also make sure that you understand the limits placed on your credit cards. When you exceed the limit, many fees may be awaiting you. Try contacting your credit card company for an increased limit if you consistently go over your current limit.
Take the time to play around with numbers. Before you go out and put a pair of fifty dollar shoes on your credit card, sit with a calculator and figure out the interest costs. It may make you second-think the idea of buying those shoes that you think you need.
Don’t write your password or pin down in any circumstances. You must remember the number so that others can’t access your account. If you write down a PIN or password, especially if you put it in your wallet with your card, anyone can access it.
Find a credit card that rewards you for your spending. Spend money on the card that you would need to spend anyway, such as gas, groceries and even, utility bills. Pay this card off each month as you would those bills, but you get to keep the rewards as a bonus.
Ask your bank to change your interest rate if you do not like it. If they will not change it even after you talk to the retention team, start searching for a card with a lower interest rate. When you find a company that fits your needs better, make the switch.
Look into the rewards that credit card companies offer. Find one that is going to pay you for making purchases on their card. If you are trying to maximize the rewards, charge everything you can on the card, but be sure to put enough cash back to pay the card off each month, in order to avoid losing your rewards to interest fees.
Many people, especially when they are younger, feel like credit cards are a type of free money. The fact is, they are exactly the opposite, paid money. Remember, every time you use your credit card, you are basically taking out a micro-loan with incredibly high interest. Never forget that you must repay this loan.
If you pay your credit card bill with a check each month, make sure you send that check out as soon as you get your bill so that you avoid any finance charges or late payment fees. This is good practice and will help you create a good payment history too.
If you cannot pay your entire credit card bill each month, you should definitely keep your available credit limit above 50% after each billing cycle. Having a good credit to debt ratio is an important part of your credit score. Make sure that your credit card is not constantly near its limit.
Research all of the charges that a credit card company may include with an offer. Look beyond interest rates. You may find application fees, fees for cash advances or service charges that nullify any benefits the card offers.
Upon closing a credit account, it is imperative that you destroy the associated card. Do not just leave it lying around or let your children use it as a toy. If the card falls into the wrong hands, someone could reactivate the account and leave you responsible for unauthorized charges.
Using credit cards wisely is an essential aspect of being a smart consumer. It is necessary to educate yourself thoroughly in the ways credit cards work and how they can become useful tools. By using the guidelines in this piece, you can have what it takes to seize control of your own financial fortunes.
