How to use Credit Cards the right way!

By Mack Bekeza

Credit Cards, just a piece of plastic that spirals people into debt right? Well… not always. In fact, many people who use credit cards tend to actually save money on certain items. That’s right! People can actually save money by utilizing a credit card! But how? Although there are plenty of ways one can utilize credit cards, here are the two most common ways people can save money with them:

1. Utilizing a Cash-Back Card for everyday purchases and racking up rewards in a form of a statement credit or even a check.
2. Frequent travelers using a Travel Rewards Card to lower their travel expenses substantially via points when staying at a hotel, renting a car, or even everyday purchases.

Although these perks are great for people trying to save money, it is crucial that you pay off these credit cards on-time and on a regular basis. It is also important to note that cards with very generous rewards are known for charging higher interests rates (even to those with excellent credit).

So what is the best way to manage your credit cards without paying interest?

1. One rule of thumb is to check and pay your balance once a week or every other week depending on how frequently you use it. Not only will doing this increase your credit score, you also will not have to worry about paying your bank any extra money!
2. Another tip is to only use a credit card if you can pay the balance instantly, meaning that if you couldn’t pay for an item with a debit card without going into overdraft, don’t use a credit card!
3. Last but certainly not least, do not pressure yourself to spend more money just to get a sign-up bonus, in fact, do not change your budget what so ever! Only attempt to go for the sign-up bonus if your regular spending habits will allow you to do so.

Now that you have an idea on how to manage credit cards, how do you know which one is right for you? There are a few things to consider:

1. If you haven’t done so already, check your credit score or even your full credit report(credit reports are only free to view once a year). Many Banks and Credit Card Companies only issue certain cards to people who meet specific criteria such as credit score and income thresholds.
2. Think of how can you best utilize a credit card. For instance, do you travel a lot? Do you frequently go grocery shopping? Or do you just spend a lot of money in general? Either way, there is a high chance that there is a credit card that can help you save money on certain or even all frequent expenditures.
3. Like previously mentioned, make sure that you find a credit card that you can get the sign-up bonus without having to alter your spending habits.

If you have any questions about certain credit cards or how to interpret your credit score, don’t hesitate to contact us at mack@castlerockinvesting.com

© 2016 Castle Rock Investment Company. All rights reserved. Please share your insights with us at mack@castlerockinvesting.com or via phone at 303-719-7523