Credit Cards - Be Smart, Use Well

Credit Card GraphicAs a financial advisor, I do my fair share of bashing credit cards. Too many people don't use them properly, and when they use them the wrong way they end up with too much debt, and sometimes ruined credit. But it's more than that. Let's face it, if you racked up $30,000 in credit card debt taking vacations, buying clothes and furniture, and otherwise just living beyond your means, it isn't like you got tripped up by the subtle nuances of the credit card world. That being said, even responsible, intelligent adults can botch things up with credit cards. Why? The short version is that the credit card companies are tricky. You may think you know, but you don't. What's worse, is even if you do know, you might not know tomorrow, because they are always changing up the rules.

However, credit cards CAN be used to your benefit. You just have to know what you are doing. Read these articles to make sure you're one of the people getting the advantages of credit cards without any of the disadvantages.

What Are Good Credit Card Terms

Some credit cards are good, and some credit cards are bad. Some credit cards are terrible. To know which is which, you need to understand credit card terms and conditions. What are good credit card terms?

What about those no credit check credit cards? Are they too good to be true?

How To Use The Best Rewards Credit Cards

Why You Need At Least 2 Credit Cards

Your credit score is the main reason.  Read about why you should have at least 2 credit cards.

Your Credit Report

Your credit report is the key to good credit card deals.  Read all about your credit report here.

Your Credit Score

Your credit score is what actually determines what kind of loan offers you get.  Read all about Your Credit Score here.

 

Coming Soon

Must Read Credit Card Primer
Reward Cards -- How to Compare and Analyze Them
Wicked, Tricksy, False -- Credit Card Company Tricks
Identity Theft -- What You Should Be Doing