Finances

Choose Your Credit Card Wisely: Make The Smart Choice!

Embark on a journey of financial wisdom by choosing the right credit card. Uncover the advantages and drawbacks, rewards, and risks associated with credit cards.

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A sea of advantages opens up in front of you when you choose a good credit card. Firstly, avoid carrying cash with you for a simple matter of security. Pay your bills swiftly, including through touchless options!


Pick a right credit card and reestablish your financial independence

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In addition to all the advantages of a credit card, it also facilitates your financial control, for example, through the straightforward tracking of your expenses.

Credit score concept

650 Credit Score: Is It Good?

Do you see the 650 number in your credit score monitoring and don’t know what this means? Stay calm! You’ve reached the content to solve your doubts.

But the essential aspect is the Building of Credit History. This is crucial for loans and other financial transactions since it demonstrates payment capability.

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What is a credit card and how does it work?

A credit card is simply a means of payment. The significant aspect is that it allows for both immediate and installment purchases. This is the most basic function it serves.

You conduct these transactions using a pre-approved credit limit from a financial institution. The application process is typically straightforward.

Upon approval, you receive the card with an already available credit limit. Here’s where your part begins. You make purchases either in physical stores or online, accumulating a statement.

The partnership completes its cycle when you pay by the due date to avoid interest and penalties. This process is what is expected from your relationship with your credit card.

Can you improve your credit score using a credit card?

As mentioned earlier, the credit card is a crucial tool for building your credit score. There are even options specifically designed for this purpose.

The well-known “credit builders” – on our portal, you can identify the best ones within this and other categories.

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What are the benefits and risks of using a credit card?

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Choose Your Credit Card Wisely: Make The Smart Choice! Source: AdobeStock

Yes, everything in life has its two sides of the coin. And, of course, with a credit card, it wouldn’t be any different. Therefore, follow our compilation of the pros and cons below.

Benefits

  • Security: Credit cards use chip and PIN technology to ensure the security of your transactions;
  • Reward Programs and Cashback: There are various program options. Choose the program that best fits your needs and lifestyle;
  • Building your credit score: A good payment history is essential to build a strong credit score;
  • Installment Purchases: Divide the value of your purchases into several payments;
  • Special Benefits in Travel and Airports: Save on your travels with discounts on flights and hotels. Additionally, gain access to VIP lounges at airports with some cards;
  • Insurance: Protection against various unforeseen events, such as lost baggage or travel insurance;
  • Car Rental: Ease when renting a vehicle;
  • Online Shopping: Increased security in international transactions;
  • Bill Payments: Ability to pay bills and invoices.

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Risks

  • Debt: Credit cards can facilitate indebtedness, especially if you don’t control your expenses. The revolving and installment interest rates are very high and can lead to a snowball effect of debts;
  • Frauds: Your card can be cloned or stolen and used for purchases without your knowledge. It’s important to be cautious of online scams and phishing;
  • Impulsive Spending: The ease of using the card can lead to impulsive and unnecessary expenses;
  • Lack of Financial Control: If you don’t keep track of your card expenses, you may lose financial control. It’s essential to maintain a record of all your purchases.
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What are the fees associated with credit cards?

An aspect that demands extreme attention. Let’s explore the main ones. The most common is the annual fee. And the dreaded interest rates. These, in turn, can be “rotating” or “installment interest.”

Moreover, fees for cash withdrawals are common. There is a common practice of charging for the second card issuance caused by loss, theft, or damage.

Other fees:

  • Issuance fee: Charged upon card issuance;
  • Cancellation fee: Charged when you cancel the card;
  • Travel notice fee: Charged when you notify the card issuer of your upcoming international travel;
  • Travel insurance: Optional insurance that can be contracted along with the card.

How do interest rates on credit cards work?

Basically, there are two types of interest. Revolving interest functions when a fee is charged if you don’t pay the full invoice amount on time.

Rates vary according to the card issuer and your credit profile. The other type of interest is installment interest. These are the fees charged when you divide the invoice into several payments.

They are generally lower than revolving rates but still considered high. Therefore, always use your credit card responsibly.

What is a credit limit? How is it determined?

Young african american woman smiling happy holding smartphone and credit card at the city
Choose Your Credit Card Wisely: Make The Smart Choice! Source: AdobeStock

Simply put, it is the maximum amount you can spend with your credit card. This value is determined by the card issuer based on your income, spending habits, and credit history.

However, how it is calculated is also influenced by the type of card you applied for. Some cards are designed to help you manage your expenses, while others are geared towards facilitating spending!

What is a minimum payment?

There is a minimum amount you can pay from your credit card statement. It’s usually around 15% of the total invoice amount. But be cautious about the interest if you only pay the minimum.

Are there different types of credit cards?

There are various types of credit cards available in the market, each with its own features and benefits. To simplify, below are the main categories of credit cards.

  • Basic: Cards with low or no annual fees, usually with few benefits.
  • International: Cards accepted worldwide, offering travel benefits such as travel insurance and VIP lounges at airports.
  • Black: Premium cards with a high annual fee and various benefits, including access to VIP lounges, exclusive insurance, and concierge services.
  • Multi-wallet: Cards that allow the accumulation of points in different loyalty programs.
  • Cashback: Cards that refund a portion of expenses on the invoice in cash.
  • For those with credit issues: Cards available for individuals with credit restrictions, often with a higher annual fee and a lower credit limit.

What should you consider before choosing a credit card?

The essential step before applying for a credit card is to have a clear understanding of what you expect from it.

An option that assists you in building credit and can act as a guide on your financial journey is the Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card. Get to know this excellent choice with all the details!

Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card

Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card Review

Does trying to get a credit card with a damaged score gives you headaches? The Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card will be your relief.

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