According to a 2016 survey by Bankrate, only 33 percent of millennials have a credit card. Credit cards are an effective way to start the process of building credit. And if utilized properly, credit cards can be useful financial tools. The way millennials understand and use credit will determine their credit scores, so learning early on how to use credit responsibly is vital. Our credit counseling advice for millennials is to learn responsible financial behaviors early on. That way, they won’t fall into credit card debt.
Follow ACCC’s tips to use credit responsibly.
Tuesday Tip – How to Use Credit Responsibly
Our debt counselors are always sharing credit advice with consumers. So before millennials get in over their heads, here are some ways they can protect themselves learning how to use credit wisely:
- Don’t use credit cards to finance an unaffordable lifestyle
- Avoid using credit cards if you’re already in financial trouble
- Don’t get hooked on minimum payments
- Don’t run up your balance depending on a temporary “teaser” rate
- Make your credit card payments on time
- Avoid offers from credit card lenders to bill services directly to your card
- Beware of unsolicited increases to your credit limit
- Don’t max out your cards
Building credit is an important skill for any. Just make sure if you are going to use credit, to use credit responsibly.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
