Jammed Etcetera

There is a lot of truth in the advice that credit cards are not a substitute for not having money. Every time you use a credit card this should be the theme replaying in your mind. And you would do good to remember the following too.

Do’s.

Always plan for the purchases that you need and those that you want. You need the essentials, and you want everything else. The ability of making a distinction might help you plan wisely.

If caught up in financial difficulties, it’s always good to talk to the issuer who might re-schedule your payments. If you simply default, that only helps to build up an unfavorable credit history and you might find yourself being denied credit next time.

Unless it is an emergency, staying within your credit limits will help you a great deal. If you must spend over the limit, ensure you are within the manageable levels, say within 30 percent.

And if your mails are flushed with more favorite deals than you currently are enjoying, you may approach your issuer for a better deal. They want to retain you as their customer, so they will listen.

Dont’s

Do not use your credit card to make house hold purchases. It’s expensive in the long run

Do not just pay the minimal amount. You will end up paying exorbitant interest. The quicker you clear the debt the better.

Do not use the credit card to purchase things you can’t afford.

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Credit cards have become a part of life for most people living in the western countries. It’s becoming increasingly impossible to avoid them, especially for business men. So if it is the first time you are seeking to enter into the world of plastic money, here are some of the basic things you should look out for.

1. First, compare the interest chargeable for all the credit cards for which you are eligible. While the rate may not remain fixed indefinitely, it’s always advisable for first timers to go for the one charging lower rates.

2. Read the fine print, especially on the other charges that may be charged on you, like late-payment fees, annual fees, and whether there is a grace period which is normally given before the finance charges kick in.

3. Decide what limit is appropriate for a person of your income. Also the fewer credit cards you have, the better placed you are to track your spending.

4. Compare the services and other features such as the cash back incentives, or warranties, rebates and the like.

5. Check whether the card is widely accepted to enable you to pay for your needs.

6. You will do yourself a favor by familiarizing yourself with the following terms.

7. Annual Percentage Rate. This is the measure of the yearly cost of credit.

8. Finance Charges. These are the total charges involving the transaction. This is the period the issuer gives you before he starts charging you interest on new purchases. Note that not all credit cards have a grace period.

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