Year 2010 is a Metal Tiger year. Although known for its courage, tigers tend to act only by impulse and without thinking. Courage is needed, especially in the highly challenging world of today.
However, the courage with wisdom means more than just courage without considering the circumstances. From the financial perspective, courage is required to manage finances, either through savings or investments. At the same time, fiscal policy remains necessary, especially in managing debt.
Here are tips to avoid 8 debt and use credit cards wisely:
1. Make budget
Record expenses to be paid via credit card for a month, such as eating in restaurants, shopping groceries, gasoline, and others. Know the amount that will be charged to your credit card. Watch your spending and make sure not to exceed the budgeted funds.
2. Determine the monthly spending limit
Discipline yourself in the use of credit cards per month. Avoid spending close to credit limits, always leave for emergency needs.
3. Avoid impulse shopping
These tips suitable for women because women are generally more impulsive in shopping than men. Do not use credit cards to buy something you do not plan to. Shop like you are carrying cash.
4. Pay on time
Pay credit card debt 5-7 days prior to maturity, so you do not get penalties or interest. It would be better if your bills paid in full each month. Should make regular monthly payments by direct debit or checking. This will improve your track record in the bank or the Debtor Information System.
5. Take advantage of interest-free grace period
This is the time given on the credit card issuer clients to pay credit card with no interest affected. Usually 20-25 days, but this only applies if the bill had been paid previously.
6. Pay more than the minimum
Get used to paying more than the minimum threshold (10 percent). If you receive a bonus, use these funds to pay the bills, so you better get out of debt faster.
7. Remember! This is not your money
The money you use is basically the bank’s money, not your money. Use for your needs everyday, but do not assume or abuse it as extra income.
8. Control yourself
Using a credit card requires responsibility and self-control. If you have limitations in paying bills and watching your credit card number, it would not hurt if you go back to cash as a payment method to acquire discipline in day-to-day expenses.
If you have a very complicated problem, consult your customer service or billing the credit card in order to explain the payment program can be expected to be the solution of financial problems related to your credit card.