There are many people around the world that are finding it tough financially. With the present state of the economy the stress of finances is enormous. Many people are looking for free financial tips so that they can get back on track financially. You may be interested in this article if you are looking for financial advice.There's no such thing as a free lunch, and that especially applies to supposedly free financial advice. Here's how to spot them so you don't get stung.


Friday 17 August 2012

How To Use Your Credit Cards Wisely

By John Miguel


Today, consumers need as much advice as possible when it comes to managing finances and avoiding pitfalls caused by overspending. Credit cards are a good way to build a good credit rating, but they can potentially overburden you with high-interest debt. Continue reading for great advice on how to properly use credit cards.

Be wary when making online purchases with your credit card. Look carefully at the site to be sure it is secure. Your browser's settings can give you a clue, so check the browser's help documentation. Your credit card details are protected when you use a site that is secured. Be very careful when replying to any emails you receive that ask for personal information: you should call the company or go to their website and do not reply to those emails.

Do not carry any cards with you that you do not use daily. You might have five cards or more, but consider which of those cards you use most frequently. Those are usually the gas card and the daily charge card. These cards are the ones that should be in your wallet. The rest should be at your home in a place that is safe and secure.

If you must make a late fee or happen to miss a payment, try calling your credit card company to ask if fees can be waived and if the interest rate can remain unchanged. If you are late with your payment, the credit companies can and will raise your rates and tack on extra fees. You may be able to reduce these charges by calling the credit company.

If you preparing to close your card accounts, ensure you leave one account open in order to continue to build up good credit. Try to make the one that you leave open the card with the longest history, as well as a strong payment record. This will show lenders you've managed an account properly for a while.

Don't close an account without understanding the consequences. You should avoid closing an account if it gives you a negative mark. Also, keep open all the accounts that make up most of your history.

It may not be in your best interest to get your first credit card the moment you become old enough to do so. Instead, wait a few months and ask questions so that you completely understand the pros and cons to a credit card. See what it is to be an adult before you jump head first into your first credit card.

Never use your credit card to get cash from an ATM machine or to purchase casino chips. Gambling transactions are also expensive when using a credit card. Therefore, it is important that you only use your credit cards for theses activities in emergency situations.

If you're paying a high APR on your cards, see if you can get it lowered. In many cases, they will oblige. You will save each month in which you have a balance.

Adhere to a smart budget. While your credit card limit may be ten or fifteen thousand dollars, that isn't necessarily what you should spend. Only spend what you can afford so that you can pay the bill off at the end of the month.

Credit cards are more and more being used by many people who like them more than the fees and regulations associated with bank credit cards. When you look at how big they have become, you will be able to gain benefits from credit cards and what they offer. Use the information presented in the tips above to help you to get the most from your credit cards.




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