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5 mistakes to avoid when using credit cards

Who doesn’t love using credit cards? They are convenient and easy to carry, and they offer several rewards such as cash-backs and discounts on various kinds of purchases. However, credit cards also come with a few risks. For instance, if one is not careful with their card usage or bill payment, they could damage their credit score. So, to enjoy using credit cards safely, here are some common mistakes one must avoid:

1. Making only minimum payments
Credit cards offer benefits even on bill payments, like the option to make a minimum payment—which is a fraction of the total amount due—on the due date. So, if one cannot pay the entire bill, they can still keep using the card by making a minimum payment. The problem with this feature is that one may be tempted to keep making only minimum payments every month, which can make interest on late payments pile up. Over time, this interest can build up to a large amount.

2. Missing the payment deadline
Forgetting to pay the credit card bill on time is a common mistake that can cost users. Missing the deadline here could lead to late payment fees being levied by the card issuer and also an increased interest on the unpaid balance. So, it is better to set monthly reminders on phones to pay credit card bills to avoid missing the deadline.

3. Not checking the bill before paying
While paying credit card bills on time is really important, it is also important not to rush the process and skip checking the billing statement. As soon as one receives their credit card bill, they must check the statement. This helps them confirm if all the transactions mentioned in there are made by them. If, at all, there has been fraudulent activity or an unauthorized transaction, they can report it immediately or block the card to prevent further misuse.

4. Taking cash advances
Another credit card benefit is the option to withdraw cash from an ATM using the card, which is added to the total bill. The only issue with this feature is that this action attracts huge interest rates. Plus, unlike with regular purchases and payments, this interest does not have a grace period. This means it would begin accruing immediately. So, while this feature could come in handy with urgent cash requirements, one should avoid it.

5. Closing a credit card
One may be tempted to close a credit card after paying off any debt and interest charges on delayed payments. However, this could be a mistake, as the credit score is heavily dependent on how long a credit account has been active. If one closes this account (or the card), it could severely reduce their credit score.

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