Tips For Reading A Credit Card Statement

TIP! Check the fine print of credit card offers. Know all of the details if you are offered a pre-approved card of if someone helps you to get a card.

When people think of credit cards, they think of spending dangers and ridiculous interest rates. Having said that, if you use bank cards properly, they can also provide you with certain benefits, such as conveniences, peace of mind, and even certain rewards. Read on to learn how you can use credit cards in a positive manner.

Credit Card

TIP! Before beginning to use a new credit card, you should carefully review the terms stated in the credit card agreement. Most companies think the first time you use their card constitutes accepting their terms.

If you see any suspicious charges to your credit card, call your credit card company right away. This way, they will be more likely to discover the culprit. This will help ensure you are not liable for any fraudulent charges against the card. Fraudulent charges could be reported through a phone call or through email to your card provider.

TIP! Many times, credit cards are associated with loyalty programs. Choose a credit card whose loyalty program offers you something valuable.

Retail credit card accounts should only be opened at stores that you will be shopping in quite frequently. If a retail store inquires on your credit, the inquiry will affect your credit score, even if you do not open the card. If you have many retail inquiries, your credit score may decrease.

TIP! Be sure not to leave any any portions blank when you sign a receipt at a store or restaurant. Draw a pen line through the “tip” area, so that an employee cannot write something in the space and give themselves a tip.

Always check the fine print. If you receive a pre-approved card offer, make sure you understand the full picture. Find out the exact interest rate and the time that rate is in effect for your card. You should also ensure you have a complete understanding of any fees as well as grace periods associated with the credit card.

Credit Card

TIP! Understand that the credit card interest rate you currently have is always subject to change. Since credit card companies compete with one another, they all have the option of changing your interest rate to another one of their standard rates to keep you satisfied.

Always make sure there is not a yearly fee attached to any credit card that offers rewards or perks. The annual fee for a platinum or black card could cost from $100, all the way up to $1,000, depending on how exclusive the card is. If you don’t really need an exclusive card, then you can save money and avoid annual fees if you switch to a regular credit card.

TIP! See if your credit card issuer is willing to lower your interest rate. In many cases, companies are willing to lower the interest rates of customers who they have a lengthy and positive relationship with.

Just like you wish to avoid late fees, be sure to avoid the fee for being over the limit too. Both are costly, but you will pay not only the fees tied to these mistakes, but your credit score will dip as well. Track your spending carefully so that you don’t go over your limit.

TIP! Never transfer your credit card numbers via a fax. A fax could sit in a basket in some office for hours or days, letting everyone in the office know your credit card details.

If you find yourself dissatisfied with the interest rate on your card, request an adjustment. If your issuer does not agree to a change, start comparison shopping for other cards. When you find a company that fits your needs better, make the switch.

TIP! If you have credit cards that are sitting unused in your sock drawer, you should close them. You are making yourself a likely victim of fraud if you choose to keep them open.

Periodically, you should contact the company that issued your credit card and ask them about a reduction on your interest rates. Some companies are willing to lower interest rates if the customer has had a positive credit history with them. It may save you a lot of money later and it doesn’t cost anything to ask them.

TIP! Hide your credit cards in your wallet, behind the debit cards is a good trick to avoid using them by mistake. By doing this you will make yourself more likely to select the debit card first, especially if you are in a hurry or generally just not paying attention.

Credit cards can provide many benefits when used in a smart way. Whether its financial flexibility, emergency funds, or accumulating rewards, bank cards can really make your life quite a bit easier. So, take the knowledge you have gained from this article and use it to manage your charge cards sensibly, and responsibly.