Credit cards can ruin your life, but not if you use them wisely. There are many reasons why people choose to get a credit card, from spending to boosting their credit score. In this article, we will look at the good and bad sides of having a credit card as well as five tips on getting and using it safely.
Let’s start with the bad. Owning a credit card is a big responsibility. If you lose your card or it gets stolen, you risk identity and/or financial theft. Another bad point is if you spend on your card but don’t pay it off, you could potentially end up in a lot of debt, which, in turn, will affect your credit score and even your future.
But there are good sides to having a credit card. If you spend on your card and pay it off on or before the minimum payment date every time, it can help build your credit score. Another good thing about owning a credit card is if you ever need access to funds urgently, it’s there. But again, you should only do this if you can pay it off quickly.
5 tips on getting and using your credit card safely:
- Always keep it in a safe place
- Never let someone else use it
- Watch your spending
- Find the lowest APR (Annual Percentage Rate) you can
- Apply for a low limit so you can handle any repayments
- Choose a well-known bank