Before mailing your credit card application to your chosen card issuer, you should know that most people with credit card acquire debt. This is because they don't know what it truly means to have the plastic. Getting approved is a great thing, but it can come with issues that may affect you for a lifetime.
To avoid jumping into the debt bandwagon, here are two things to bear in mind when sending your application:
Your use of credit cards is reported to the three major credit bureaus. This is a double edged sword. If you pay your bills on time, you get great rewards, including a favorable credit score. On the other hand, if you constantly miss your payments, your score will be immensely affected and it may take years to repair it.
More applications can drop your rating. Every time you apply for credit, you are damaging your credit score. If you apply for several cards over a short period of time, expect your credit rating to plummet quickly.
Your Contract
The contract specifies the conditions and terms about your credit card. It contains various elements, including the following:
Costs and Charges - Credit cards are used for cash advances, balance transfers, and purchases. Every activity comes with a balance, which may have its own interest rate.
Payments and Schedules - In your contract, it will be stated when you should pay your bills. Take note of the date so that you will not make late payments. Delayed payments can cause your score to go down and even increase your interest rate. Your credit statement will be sent to your address and sometimes even in your inbox. When you sign the agreement, you agree that you will pay all the charges that you have made along with the interest rates, if there are any. It is usually stated that you pay at least the minimum payment on the due date.
Late Charges - Some cards have late fees while others don't. Read this part of your contract carefully to know whether you will be charged a fee for delayed payments. This portion may also contain information on whether you will be in default and how much you need to pay if you miss payments for a specified number of months.
Computing the Interest - Companies have their own methods of calculating the interest rates. They will normally take a look at your credit history. If you have excellent credit, you will qualify for lower interest rates.
Modifications - Creditors have the right to alter your interest rates and other terms in your contract. Increases in interest rates usually take place if you fail to pay your bills. You will receive a written notice. Your contract typically contains the types of changes that may occur (i.e. penalty rates), why it may occur (i.e. you are 60 days delayed on payment), and when you will be notified (i.e. 45 days before the change takes place).
As a customer, you have many rights, but you have responsibilities as well. It is your obligation to protect yourself against major repercussions including the snares of credit card debt.
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