Credit cards often get a bad rap, but they can actually be quite helpful. Especially if you’re trying to build your credit, or conveniently purchase something before you have the all the funds for it. The key is knowing both the benefits of credit cards and cons, so you can make an educated decision.
How Do Credit Cards Work?
Credit cards are essentially a short-term loan from a credit card provider. They offer you a line of credit, which you can use to make purchases, balance transfers, or get cash advances.
Once you use your credit card, you’re required to make a minimum payment at the end of the month on the balance. If you don’t pay the interest off in full, interest charges are applied.
There are many types of credit cards. Here are just a few:
- Rewards credit cards
- Charge cards
- Secured credit cards
To get a credit card, you’ll need to complete an application with the credit card issuer. They’ll check your credit scores and background information, and then either approve or reject your application.
If you need to learn more about the specifics of credit card types, read more.
What are the Benefits of Credit Cards?
Credit cards can come with interest rates and fees, but the benefits they offer often far outweigh the cons. Here are some of the biggest benefits of having a credit card.
Convenience
With a credit card, you never have to worry about not having enough cash on hand or enough funds on your debit card. Credit cards are a great way of paying for things you know you can pay off at a later time. If you have one, you can get things right when you need them.
Just remember to keep track of what you’re buying. That way you can make sure you can cover the credit card bill when it comes.
Credit History
One of the biggest benefits of a credit card is that it helps you build your credit score. By paying your credit card bills on time, you can get a good credit rating from credit rating agencies.
A great credit score can open many doors for you. Most importantly, it makes lenders more likely to lend to you and offer you a good interest rate. It’s also great for people applying for loans or even apartments.
Card-Specific Perks
Did you know many credit cards come with member perks? You can often choose from a range of perks like rewards, shopping bonuses, and cash back on your purchases.
With some cards, you can win points for flights and hotel stays. You can even get cash back on your grocery bills!
Quick Loans
Sometimes you need to make a purchase and you just can’t wait until your next paycheck. Credit cards help you make the purchases you need, when you need them, so you can save your money over time rather than spend it all at once. The important thing is that you only make credit card purchases that you can pay off at the end of the month.
Credit cards also offer cash advances. Just note that cash advances often come with a higher interest rate. So, it’s best to have a realistic payment plan in place before you take advantage of this benefit.
Ready for a Credit Card?
When it comes to cards, the benefits of credit cards can’t be beaten. As long as you stay on top of your finances and make smart purchases, you can make the most of your credit card, and reap the rewards.
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