College Credit Card Info
Credit Card Overview
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College Credit Card Tips
Choosing a Student Credit Card
Managing Your Credit Card Balance
Credit Education
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Managing Your Credit Card BalanceThere are a lot of basics to know about managing your credit card balance. Read this article to learn more about monthly statements, payment options, minimum payments, revolving balances, and how this all relates to managing your credit card balance. Here are some hints for handling your credit balance as a college student who is new to the world of credit cards. Statements You can set up your account so that you receive printed statements in the mail or paperless statements by email. In addition, you can check your current account information online by setting up a username and password. Did You Know That You Have Payment Options? One of the first things you can do to help you manage your credit card balance and avoid late fees is to choose a payment method that suits you. Consider these choices:
Can you count on staying aware and writing a check every month to pay off your bill, leaving time for mailing and processing? If you characteristically keep track of spending through your checking account and use the payment as an opportunity to review your statement, this can be a great choice. Make sure to mail your payment at least seven days before its due to avoid late fees due to extended time in the mail or processing. If you’re concerned about the timing, consider enrolling in the credit card company’s personalized alert service to notify you by email at a time you specify so that you can make your payments on time.
If you’re not sure writing a check is the best choice for you, you can consider automatic payments, through which your balance will automatically be deducted from your bank account each month on the date and with the amount you specify. This still has to be done every month, but since you can choose the date, you can set it up way in advance - as soon as the amount due becomes available.
There is sometimes a fee associated with paying by phone, but in a pinch - for example, if you’re trying to make an online payment at the last moment and the network or your own computer is down - the phone is a handy back-up to avoid a late fee.
Discover Cards can be paid at Sears retail stores. Your card may have some locations, such as a credit card office, where you can pay. If it’s in your neighborhood or a location where you characteristically have to do errands anyway, you may find this the easiest way to pay your bill. Why You Should Ignore the "Minimum" Payment There several reasons why you should almost always ignore the card issuer’s suggested minimum payment, even though it may seem attractive.
What If You End Up With a Balance? There are several strategies you can use if you end up with a balance and need to pay it down.
Related Article: Building Good Credit >>
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