No matter where you shop, you're bound to see those familiar credit card logos on the door and at the cash register. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere whether you're making a major purchase or just buying a cup of coffee. Credit cards are often considered too much of a temptation, but when used appropriately, they're an excellent financial tool. Here are six smart reasons you should have a credit card.
If you've ever applied for an auto loan or a mortgage, you know how important your credit rating is. To build credit in the first place, you must have a history of paying bills on time such as utilities, car payments, loans and credit cards. Applying for a distinguished American Express credit card is one way of successfully building a positive credit history that will help you secure the best rates on future loans.
Planning a vacation is almost impossible to do without a credit card. You'll need a card to reserve your hotel and to take advantage of special offers online. It's also much easier to reserve airline tickets and a credit card is an absolute must when renting a car. If you're taking a cruise, remember you need to have a credit card on file for tips and extra expenses. Luckily, many credit cards offer you rewards and traveler miles, and you get to pay for your trip in convenient installments.
Having a credit card in your wallet for emergencies is one of the best reasons to carry one. For example, if you break down on the highway, a credit card can help with towing service and an unexpected repair. Credit cards can also help if you have a dental emergency, furnace trouble or you need to purchase a last-minute gift. Just remember that once the emergency has passed, you must pay off your balance and not take on additional debt.
Many credit cards offer reward points and 0% interest balance transfers to entice you. Usually, these offers are well worth taking advantage of. If you have smaller debts you want to pay off, a balance transfer will help you accomplish it with no interest. Many people use their credit cards for groceries and utilities and then pay off the balance each month. This builds up points, bonuses and frequent flier miles, but you must be disciplined enough to pay it off every month.
Another smart reason to have a credit card is to perform online shopping transactions. Sure, you could use your debit card, but a credit card is safer if the worst happens and your card gets hacked. Credit cards make shopping online for airfare, hotel reservations, streaming services and online subscription services a lot easier and safer. Many credit cards also offer special no interest deals when you buy certain large-ticket items.
When you shop with a credit card, whether it's in-person or online, your credit card company will monitor your activity for fraud. If they suspect something fishy, the transaction will be denied and you'll be contacted to verify the purchase. If your card is stolen, you won't be liable for the charges incurred. Fraud monitoring with a credit card is much safer than using a debit card and having your account drained. Plus, having your credit card online makes it easy to pay your bill and check your purchases in real-time.
If you're a financially responsible person, carrying a credit card is beneficial. It'll help you build your credit, ease travel expenses and protect you from theft.
Publish Date: April 22, 2022 5:27 PM |
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