... Tip Num 17 Of 261
Make sure you save your statements. Before you file them away, pay close attention to what is on them as well. If you see a charge that shouldn't be on there, dispute the charge. All credit card companies have dispute procedures in place to assist you with fraudulent charges that may occur.
Be safe when giving out your credit card information. If you like to order things online with it, then you have to be sure the website is secure. If you notice charges that you didn't make, call the customer service number for the credit card company. They can help deactivate your card and make it unusable, until they mail you a new one with a new account number.
In order to keep a good credit rating, be sure to pay your bills on time. Avoid interest charges by picking a card that has a grace period. Then you can pay the entire balance that is due each month. If you cannot pay the full amount, pick a card that has the lowest interest rate available.
Read the terms of your credit card agreement carefully before you use your credit card for the first time. When you make your first purchase on a new credit card, the credit card company will usually consider your purchase as your acceptance to their terms. Be aware of all of the "fine print" that comes with your credit card!
To make sure you select an appropriate credit card based on your needs, determine what you would like to use your credit card rewards for. Many credit cards offer different rewards programs such as those that give discounts on travel, groceries, gas or electronics so pick a card that suits you best!
Retain a sales receipt when making online purchases with your card. Keep your copy at least until you receive your monthly statement, to be sure that you were charged the authorized amount. If they did not, contact the company and file a dispute immediately. This will ensure that you aren't wrongly overcharged.
Do not use your credit cards to make emergency purchases. Many people believe that this is the best use of credit cards, but the best use is actually for things that you purchase on a regular basis, like groceries. The key is, Gaming to only charge things that you will be able to pay back in a timely manner.
Prior to applying for a credit card, playing Games try to build your credit up at least six months in advance. Then, be sure to take a look at your credit report. By doing this, you are more likely to get approved for the credit card and get a higher credit limit, as well.
Do not write your password or your pin number down. It is vital that you know your password, and that you're the only one who has access related to it. If you have the pin number written down and near your credit card, that makes it super easy to steal.
Be sure to avoid using a public computer to make online purchases. Your information may be stored and retrieved from computers in coffee shops, the library, Gaming etc. Inputting your credit card information on these computers is asking for trouble. When you are making purchases only do so from your own personal home computer.
Far too many people have gotten themselves into precarious financial straits, because of credit cards. The best way to avoid falling into this trap, is to have a thorough understanding of the different ways credit cards can be used in a financially responsible way. Put the tips in this article to work, and you can become a truly savvy consumer.
Credit cards are a great way to build a solid personal credit history, but they can also cause significant turmoil and heartache when used unwisely. Knowledge is key, in terms of building a smart financial strategy that incorporates credit cards. Continue reading, in order to understand how best to utilize credit cards and secure financial well-being for the long term.
Don't pay any fees upfront when you are getting a credit card. The legitimate card issuers will not ask for any money up front, unless you're getting a secured credit card. When you are applying for a secured card, be sure to find out how the deposit is going to be used.
Make sure that you sign your card as soon as it arrives in the mail. It is easy to forget to do, but if your card is stolen, there is no signature for cashiers to compare. A lot of places need a signature so they can match it to your card, which makes it safer to buy things.
Keep one low-limit card in your wallet for emergency expenses only. All other cards should be kept at home, to avoid impulse buys that you can't really afford. If you need a card for a large purchase, you will have to knowingly get it from your home and take it with you. This will give you extra time to think about what you are buying.
Credit cards have the potential to be useful tools, or dangerous enemies. The best way to understand the right ways to utilize credit cards, is to amass a substantial body of knowledge about them. Use the advice in this piece liberally, and you have the ability to take control of your own financial future.
Once you do open a credit card account, aim to keep it open for as long as possible. You should not switch credit accounts unless you find it completely unavoidable. Account length is a big part of your credit score. Part of building credit is keeping accounts open if possible.
