What do you think of when you hear the word credit? If you start to shake or cower in fear because of a bad experience, then this article is perfect for you. It contains many tips related to credit and credit cards, and can help you to break yourself of that fear!
When making purchases with your credit cards you should stick to buying items that you need instead of buying those that you want. Buying luxury items with credit cards is one of the easiest ways to get into debt. If it is something that you can live without you should avoid charging it.
Take a look at the fine print. We have all been pre-approved for one card or another, but it’s important to understand all of the specifics about that card before accepting it. Know what the real interest rate is, if it goes up after the first year and how much time they allow for payment of it. Remember to check out any grace periods and finance charges involved, too.
To ensure that you don’t over pay for your premium credit card, check whether your card has annual fees attached to it. The annual fees for platinum and black cards range from one hundred to one thousand dollars, according to how exclusive the card is. If you will not use the benefits of an “exclusive” card, the fee is not worth it.
If you have a credit card with high interest you should consider transferring the balance. Many credit card companies offer special rates, including 0% interest, when you transfer your balance to their credit card. Do the math to figure out if this is beneficial to you before you make the decision to transfer balances.
Emergency, business or travel purposes, is all that a credit card should really be used for. You want to keep credit open for the times when you need it most, not when purchasing luxury items. You never know when an emergency will crop up, so it is best that you are prepared.
There are many cards that offer rewards just for getting a credit card with them. While this should not solely make your decision for you, do pay attention to these types of offers. I’m sure you would much rather have a card that gives you cash back than a card that doesn’t if all other terms are close to being the same.
Whenever you are considering a new credit card, you should always avoid applying for credit cards that have high interest rates. While interest rates compounded annually may not seem all that much, it is important to note that this interest can add up, and add up fast. Make sure you get a card with reasonable interest rates.
Be careful if you buy things online with your credit card. Only give out your confidential credit card information to businesses you trust and who have secure websites. Your credit information will remain safe if you are using a secure site. Additionally, disregard any email requesting credit card info, as these are most often ploys to get at your valuable personal data.
It is best to stay away from charging holiday gifts and other holiday-related expenditures. If you can’t afford it, either save to buy what you want or just buy less-expensive gifts. Your best friends and relatives will understand that you are on a budget. You can always ask ahead of time for a limit on gift amounts or draw names. The bonus is that you won’t be spending the next year paying for this year’s Christmas!
If you are going to make purchases over the Internet you need to make all of them with the same credit card. You do not want to use all of your cards to make online purchases because that will increase the chances of you becoming a victim of credit card fraud.
Write down the card numbers, expiration dates, and customer service numbers associated with your cards. Keep your list in a safe place that is separate from your cards. Such a list is helpful when you need to quickly get in touch with lenders in the event your cards are lost or stolen.
Check with your credit card company, to learn if you can set up, and automatic payment each month. Many companies will allow you to automatically pay the full amount, minimum payment, or set amount out of your checking account each month. This will ensure that your payment is always made on time.
Do not carry any cards with you that you do not use daily. No matter how many cards you have in total, consider the ones that you most regularly use. A credit card for everyday charges and a card that you use for gas should be more than enough. Keep those only in your wallet or purse, and hide the rest in a secure location at your house.
How do you feel now? Are you still scared? If so, it is time to continue your credit education. If that fear has passed, pat yourself on the back. You have educated and prepared yourself in a responsible manner.
