Learn some tips and tricks to help you manage your credit cards more successfully.

1. Information That All
Credit Card Users Must
Know

2. Credit cards have the power to cause financial
ruin, but they don't have to. However, when
credit is used responsibly, it offers peace of
mind, convenience and even rewards and
perks. To find the advantages associated to
credit cards, read this guide for more
information.

3. A retail card should only be opened if you really
use that store often. Every credit inquiry
impacts your credit score, even if you do not
end up getting the card after all. A lot of
inquiries from stores can lower your credit
rating.

4. Pay 100% of your credit card bill each month if
you can afford it. In the ideal credit card
situation, they will be paid off entirely in every
billing cycle and used simply as conveniences.
Using credit helps the credit score, and when
you pay the balance completely you ensure
that you avoid finance charges.

5. If your financial circumstances become more
difficult, speak with your card issuer. If you are
unsure whether you will make a payment, your
company might work to create a payment plan
that is adjusted for you. Doing so could help
you avoid being reported to major reporting
agencies for the late payment.

6. The payment of your credit cards bills should
be paid on time each month. Your credit card
payments have a date that they are due by and
ignoring them will cost you additional fees. In
addition, most credit card companies will raise
your interest rate, meaning all of your future
purchases will cost you more.

7. There are many credit cards that offer rewards
programs for your spending. If you buy on
credit often, you should look for a loyalty
program which will be useful to you. When
used wisely, they can save you a great deal or
even offer you an additional source of income.

8. Retain a copy of the receipt when you utilize
your credit card online. Retain the receipt until
the bill arrives so you can ensure that you were
charged the proper amount. If they did not,
contact the company and file a dispute
immediately. This can help you to be sure that
you never overpay for the items that you
purchase.

9. Be careful when you make online purchases.
Closely scrutinize the companies you are
willing to give your personal information to. Try
calling the listed phone numbers to ensure the
company is in business and always avoid
purchases from companies that do not have a
physical address listed.

10. Never give out a credit card number over the
phone if someone else initiates the request.
This is something most scammers do. You
should never reveal your credit card number to
businesses you do not trust, and even with your
own card company you should only supply your
number if you initiated the call. Never give any
personal information to anyone who calls you.
No matter who the person says they are, don't
know truly know their identity.

11. Some people think that avoiding credit cards
altogether will help their credit because they
won't have any debt. However, in order to build
your credit you need at least one card. Use it
and pay it off each month. If you have no credit
at all, your credit score remains low. This will
impact you in the future.

12. If you are looking for a secure card, try to stay
away from a prepaid card. These are typically
debit cards and don't report to the credit
bureaus. It's common for them to charge
additional fees even though they aren't
anything more than an extra checking account.
Pay a deposit and get an actual secured card
that will help better your credit.

13. When used carefully, credit cards are very
beneficial. From peace of mind and emergency
preparedness, to potential rewards and perks,
credit cards have the potential to enhance the
quality of your financial life. Just use your credit
wisely so that it benefits you, instead of
increasing your financial challenges.