| Stop charging additional purchases. Use only in emergencies. |
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If you can eat, drink, or wear it - don't charge it! |
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| Pay balance in full monthly. If this is not possible, try to pay more than
the minimum payment due in order to reduce your balance and stop using
the credit card until the balance is paid in full. It is a loan which must
be repaid. |
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Don't ignore a credit card bill; it won't go away! |
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| If your payments begin to fall behind, talk to a school counselor or friend
and contact the credit card institution. |
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Don't panic! Go to someone for help! |
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| Ask lots of questions (fees, grace days, etc.) and shop around for the
best interest rates. |
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Don't fall for gimmicks and don't take the first card offered. |
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| Limit the number of cards. |
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Don't get more cards to pay off debts! |
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| Watch for limit increases. |
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Don't spend the maximum offered - it all adds up! |
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| Ask for low credit limits. |
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Don't accept a card if they will not lower the credit limit. |
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| Pay on time. Allow enough mailing time for the payment to reach the financial
institution by the due date. |
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Don't pay late - some late fees are as high as $25. |
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| To avoid identity fraud, review your monthly statement for accuracy. |
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Don't throw away your receipts until you compare them to your statement.
Then shred them. |
