Monday, July 7, 2014

Valuable Information For Credit Card Users And Applicants

By Belinda Norbert


There can be no doubt that credit cards have the potential to be either useful financial vehicles or dangerous temptations that undermine your financial future. In order to make credit cards work for you, it is important to understand how to use them intelligently. Keep these tips in mind, and a solid financial future can be yours.

Do not lend your credit card to anyone. Credit cards are as valuable as cash, and lending them out can get you into trouble. If you lend them out, the person might overspend, making you responsible for a large bill at the end of the month. Even if the person is worthy of your trust, it is better to keep your credit cards to yourself.

When choosing the right credit card for your needs, you need to make sure that you pay attention to the interest rates offered. If you see an introductory rate, pay close attention to how long that rate is good for. Interest rates are one of the most important things when getting a new credit card.

Decide what rewards you would like to receive for using your credit card. There are many options for rewards that are offered by credit card companies to entice you to applying for their card. Some offer miles that can be used to purchase airline tickets. Others give you an annual check. Choose a card that offers a reward that is right for you.

Keep track of your credit score. Most companies consider a credit, or "FICO", score of 700 to be the cutoff for good credit. Be smart with the way you are using your credit. With a score of over 700, you can receive the very best offers with the absolute lowest rates.

If you have several credit cards with balances on each, consider transferring all of your balances to one, lower-interest credit card. Almost everyone gets mail from various banks offering low or even zero balance credit cards if you transfer your current balances. These lower interest rates usually last for 6 months or a year. You can save a lot of interest and have one lower payment each month!

Set a budget and stick to it with regards to your credit spending. Your income is already budgeted, so make sure you make an allowance for credit card payments within this. A credit card's available balance should not be considered extra money. Set aside a certain amount that you're willing to put on your credit card every month. Don't go over that amount, and pay the balance off every month.

The frequency with which you have the chance to swipe your credit card is pretty high on a daily basis, and only seems to grow with every passing year.

Credit cards can offer convenience, flexibility and control when used appropriately. If you want to understand the role credit cards can play in a smart financial plan, you need to take the time to research the topic thoroughly. The advice in this piece offers a great starting point for building a secure financial profile.




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