Credit cards: the good, the bad and the ugly
Credit cards can be your best friend or turn into your worst enemy if not used responsibly.
Getting your first credit card is a big deal when you're coming of age. But learning how to use them responsibly is something that requires a little bit of maturity and a little bit of credit card know-how.
"Credit cards are powerful tools to help build credit and financial skills," says Jeffrey Schwartz, executive director of Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada, Inc. "Unfortunately, they can also be dangerous if not used responsibly."
There are many major credit cards out there with various options, rewards, interest rates, fees, payment schedules and late payment penalties. You'll even find attractive cards featuring logos of your favourite sports teams in the CFL, NHL, MLB or NBA or even cards featuring celebrities like, shall I say for instance -- Justin Bieber or the pre-paid Kardashian Kard.
While these cards may seem aesthetically appealing they may also come with some not-so-appealing terms. So make sure you research the fine details and understand the terms and agreement including finding out if your credit card's annual percentage rate (APR) is fixed or variable and if there is an annual fee.
When you are approved for a credit card you will be given a spending limit which could range from a hundred dollars to thousands of dollars based on your credit score. Make sure you do not go over this limit.
And, make sure you don't miss a scheduled payment and that you pay your credit card balance in full each month. This helps you avoid unnecessary interest charges and helps build your credit rating.
Above all, think before you make that purchase on your credit card. Do you really need it? Can you afford to pay it off in full when the bill comes in?
Credit cards can certainly offer convenience for buying online, booking hotels or purchasing entertainment tickets. By sticking to some good financial tips, you can prevent yourself from falling into credit card debt.
By Donna Donaldson, MSN Money
Are you able to use your credit card responsibly or have you encountered difficulties?
Posted by: Bill | Feb 27, 2022 9:04:56 PM
I never had a problem with credit cards. I have 10 of them and have had them for 40 years. Each one is for a different type of purchase. I have never paid any interest whatsoever. It is not rocket science to use them and stay within your budget. There is never an excuse to go into credit card debt. I always get verbally attacked when making such a statement, but too bad, I don't care. People I know that are buried in credit card debt all have this ridiculous sense of entitlement.
Posted by: Ray | Feb 28, 2022 1:11:38 AM
I totally agree with Bill. I was taught fifty years ago to use the Eaton's catalogue to establish a fair price and not to go into debt. I was never a big earner, my wife did not work and I paid cash for all my cars. I use the five credit cards where I can get the most points/credits and pay them off the day after the purchase. If I can't afford, I do without. Not owing for an item gives you pride of ownership. Oh, I did have mortgages, but if you pay at least 25% down I do not consider that a debt.