How You Can Use Your Credit Card Wisely

Credit cards can be a great financial tool when used properly. They can also create a lot of havoc when misused. Credit cards make it easy but potentially expensive to buy nearly anything.

Credit cards are also a great way to improve your credit as long as the balances stay low. Learn how to use them wisely and avoid potential pitfalls. Learn these tips for using a credit card wisely!

1Pay Off Your Balance Each Month

Ideally, you need to pay off your credit card balance every month. This way, you'll never pay any interest. In general, if you can't pay it off, you can't afford it in the first place.

Always make your payment before the payment due date. Credit card companies make more money from late fees than they do from interest. Don't let these profits come from your pocket!

2Stay Within 30% Of Your Credit Limit

A large portion of your credit score is determined by how much of your available credit you're currently using. Banks refer to this as your utilization ratio. The general consensus is that you're fine as long as the number stays below 30%. This means, for example, that if your limit is $10,000, you should never owe more than $3,000.

3Negotiate A Lower Interest Rate

Don't think that the number is set in stone. Your credit card company would rather get 16% than get zero percent. You'll likely be surprised if you call and ask them to lower it. Let them know that you're thinking of switching to a card with a lower interest rate.

4Notify If You Can't Make A Payment

Refrain from making them chase after you. Be proactive and explain your situation. They're frequently willing to work something out. At the very least, you can usually get the late fees waived.

5Keep Your Accounts Open

Remember that your utilization ratio is important. If you close your account, you reduce the amount of credit you have available overall. Eliminating that card could make you go over the 30% threshold.

If your utilization ratio is well below 30%, feel free to cancel. If you want to cancel because you're wasting money on a card with a high annual fee, then find a better card. Select one with an appropriate credit limit to take its place if you're near your threshold.

6Limit Everyday Purchases On A Credit Card

Unless you're careful, it's easy to overspend. Do you use your card to buy all of your food, gas, clothing, and other expenses? You might find yourself short when the bill comes due.

Keep close tabs on your charges. Also, remember that a need is not the same as something that you want. Avoid spending money that you don't have on something that you don't need.

7Find The Right Card

There are a ton of options. Some cards give some money back for gas purchases. Others give credit toward plane tickets. Do your research and find the card that best fits your situation. The interest rates and associated fees are important.

Remember that all of these kickbacks are not only to entice you to sign up for their card. They are also there to get you to use the card frequently. Be smart when using a credit card and avoid the temptation to overextend yourself.

Credit cards can be excellent tools. They can help build your credit score. You can make emergency purchases and save some money.

However, they can just as quickly create a tremendous financial burden and can ruin credit scores when they are misused. Use your credit cards wisely. This way, you'll have a more secure financial future.

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