5 Tips for Avoiding Credit Card Debt
Credit card debt that is too deep or that has been carried on for too long can create more problems than just a bad credit score.
This debt can be avoided easily with smart management of your financial behavior. Here are some tips to avoid credit card debts
- Creating a financial safety net
A smart way to not fall into debt is to pay for your various expenses with cash instead of credit. Try to use the card for emergency purposes. While it may be challenging to build a solid amount in the account in one go, you can always start with small amounts. It is often recommended to save for expenses needed for up to 6 months to ensure that you have a sturdy financial safety net that does not push you towards debt. - Spend wisely
It is often tempting to go for things and services one may not need when there is easy access to credit. While this may be all right if you are not going over your monthly budget, it may not be a good idea if you are aware that you are stretching your budget. Avoid justifying a purchase by promising yourself you will save later or pay later by working extra hours. If you want to splurge on something, plan your finances well and save for it instead of getting it on credit. Do not use the credit card as an excuse to go over the budget. - Maintain a disciplined payment schedule
Always remember to pay your credit card bills on time. Late payment on your credit card bills attracts fees for the delay and also builds the total amount you will have to pay in the following months. This late payment fees may build up over months. This may put unwanted pressure on your finances. Additionally, try to pay the entire amount, instead of sticking to the minimum amount, so that you can start with zero credit in the next billing cycle. This requires a lot of discipline. - Read the fine print
Before you sing up for any credit card program, ensure that you have read up and understood all the terms and conditions fully well. This includes how much the interest is and how the applicable fees are charged. You can use your credit card wisely with this understanding and avoid going overboard with your credit card bills. This is one of the tips to avoid credit card debts that you should not miss following at all. - Avoid too many credit cards
The more number of credit cards, the higher chance of getting into debt. Keeping an additional ticket for emergency purposes should be fine, but anything more than two can lead you to trouble. This is especially applicable for those who lack control when it comes to spending or paying credit card bills on time.