One of the happiest things that you can ever experience is having
your first application for a credit card approved. You will definitely
spend lots of time looking for the things you want to buy and planning
for your first shopping spree that doesn't involve you getting some cash
out of your wallet once you receive your card.
However, you have
to know that credit cards are one of the leading reasons why thousands
of people are currently in debt. They are indeed handy to have but for
many people, they are cause of the financial woes and problems.
First
time owners of "plastic money" can easily become victim of
overspending. After all, the experience of going shopping without paying
for any item with cash and being able to pay for them in installments
and even at zero interest rates can really be very appealing. But before
you know it, it seems that you can't stop using your plastic card to
buy anything, even if you tell yourself that you will only use it for
emergency reasons.
If you are a first time owner of a credit card,
below are some tips you can follow so that you can avoid overspending
and maxing out your card:
For those still applying for their first credit card or looking to get another one, you need to choose your card well.
At present, there are various credit cards offered by different
companies and banks suitable for varying spending and lifestyle needs.
You can get a card that is perfect for most day-to-day expenses and one
that doesn't come with an annual fee. There are also ones that you can
get with higher spending limits and cards that comes with international
concierge service. Basically, choose a card that suits your needs.
However, you also need to apply for a card that you can realistically afford. As such, when applying for a card, make sure you know the interest rate and payment terms.
Always plan your purchases.
Once you receive you card, make sure you plan for and be highly
selective about the items you will pay for using it. Remember that any
unplanned, small, and frequent purchases on your credit card will add
up. You should also consider setting a limit to any big-ticket item you
want to buy and stick to this cutoff point.
It is still more advisable to use cash.
Even if you don't have a lot of spare cash, it is still more sensible
to pay for your lunch, coffee or a new book you want to buy with cash.
By doing this, you get to avoid accumulating high interest rates on your
credit card bills.
Lastly, use your rewards.
Almost all credit cards now come with certain privileges and the best
ones will provide you with valuable rewards, such as free travel after
reaching the required points. And once you can avail of these rewards,
make sure that you put them into good use and enjoy these freebies.
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