Need A Credit Card? Use This Information
Posted at by CreditWiz on category Credit CardsIf used correctly, credit cards can garner some fantastic perks from the points you earn, like vacations and low-stress finances. Other people who fail to use credit cards smartly choose to charge expensive vacations and end up with a hefty bill. Here are some great ways to use your card wisely to get the most benefit from it.
Make sure you can afford everything you buy with a credit card. If it is something that is going to cause you financial difficulty, you are better off avoiding the purchase.
Make your credit payment before it is due so that your credit score remains high. Making your payments late will negatively affect your score and cost you additional fees. Avoid this problem by setting up automatic payments to come out of your bank account on the due date or earlier.
Make sure you completely understand credit card terms before you sign up for the card. In particular, it is crucial to look for fees and raters that occur after introductory periods. Pay very close attention to the terms to make sure you completely understand the card policy.
You need to sign your credit cards the minute that they come in the mail. Many people fail to do this and as a result their cards are stolen and the cashiers are not aware of that. While most merchants do check for signature matches, a blank signature area is easily forged by thieves and hard to catch by cashiers. So, be safe and sign the back of your cards to prevent this problem.
Credit cards can be attached to various loyalty accounts. If you use credit cards on a regular basis, it is wise to find one with a loyalty or rewards program that you find personally useful. These programs can provide a source of income, when they are used wisely.
Never leave a blank space when signing credit card receipts. If there is a tip line and you are not charging your gratuity, mark a line across the area to ensure nobody adds in an unauthorized amount. Make sure your statement matches the purchases you have made.
If you ever get a phone call that asks for a credit card number, you should never give out that information. Credit card thieves often contact people by telephone. 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. If a random company calls you first, don’t share your numbers. Although someone may say they are from a certain company, there is honestly no way to tell if they are being truthful.
Keep a list that has all of your card numbers and lender contact numbers on it. This list should be kept in a safe location away from your credit cards. The list will assist you in promptly notifying card lenders should you lose your cards or have them stolen.
Even without the advantages of points and perks like vacations, credit cards can be great tools to have at your disposal. As long as you use your credit cards responsibly you will have no problems. If you spend recklessly on your credit cards, however, you could find yourself stressed out due to huge credit card bills. Just remember to implement the tips you have read above to get in the situation that best suits your needs.