Credit Cards have become a part of our life these days, LIke all other goods which were earlier regarded as luxurious they have become a necessity now.It is easy to transact, carry and always ready when there is a need. LIke in all other goods they also have some positive and negative traits.
Blaming credit cards for all the ills does not serve any purpose, it is the user who has to be blamed. First and foremost, we must minimise the number of cards that one possess, It is always better to have a single card so that management of the card will be easier. Multiple cards means multiple fractures.
As far as possible restrict the usage of credit cards to the barest minimum, the best way to make full use of the cards is to use them for purchasing our regular items which we would have purchased anyhow. As these items will be used regularly it will be easier for the card holder to settle them with in one month and save the interest.
It is the cardinal rule, do not over burden by using card left and right. Once we get into the trap it will be difficult to extricate ourselves, hence it is better to settle all the dues with in the prescribed time limit so that we can avoid the interest and additional burden for any new transaction done subsequently. If, for some unavoidable reasons it is not possible to settle the dues promptly DO NOT MAKE ANY FURTHER TRANSACTION TILL THE AMOUNT DUE BECOMES MANAGEABLE.
I am using a Credit card since 12 years and I have sticked to these principles which has helped me in keeping the Card transaction under control. It is always better not to accept any add on cards or additional cards even if they are given free of charges as restricting the users of these cards, though they may be our family members, will be difficult.
It should be the Credit Card holder who should hold the reins and not the Credit Card.