Credit cards make life quite easy for the cardholders. However, they need to be used wisely if you want to reap maximum benefits. So, in this article, we have compiled a few tips and tricks to help you do the same. If you wish to own a credit card in UAE, you have to be wise as well as thrifty. If used ineffectively, credit cards can do more harm than good.

Here is how can you make a credit card work for you and not against you…

credit card work for you

• Pay your credit card bill on time

Paying all of your bills on time is the best way to keep your interest rates low and improve your credit score. To avoid missing your due date, you can set a reminder on your phone a few days beforehand or mark the date on your calendar. You can also adjust your online account settings so that your bill is paid automatically on a certain day of the month through a direct bank draft.

• Pay your bill in full every month

It is a common mistake to believe that making the minimum payment on your card dues is sufficient.  To avoid penalties, you have to pay your bill on time. But to avoid heavy interest rates, you also have to pay the bill in full. Do not pay attention to the minimum dues. Make it a point to clear your card balance every month.

• Take advantage of the rewards

Credit cards give you reward points for different kinds of spending. Your accumulated points can, in turn, be redeemed for rewards in cash or kind. Use your card in a manner that helps you in getting the best out of the rewards and benefits that you are eligible for.

• Never use your card at an ATM

Credit cards let you withdraw cash from ATMs as well. Avoid using this facility. Even though they are allowed, ATM withdrawals can attract heavy charges. You would not want to pay that, would you?

• Choose cards with extra perks in categories where is spent most

Even if you are not interested in credit card rewards, in particular, you can still leverage the benefits of a credit card. For instance, some of the best credit cards offer perks such as free travel insurance, price protection, primary and secondary rental-car coverage, and extended warranties. Some premium cards also come with guaranteed gift vouchers and other benefits, such as free access to airport lounges. Some gifts may be provided as joining benefits and others as periodic benefits. 

• Only use your card for the big purchases

Sometimes, the little AED 10 and AED 20 purchases can build up to a huge credit card debt when left unchecked over time. Consider using your card only for big purchases instead. The best way to do this is by saving up for your purchase in cash first. Then, after you make the big purchase with your credit card (and get the rewards points), you will have the funds to pay it off right away.

• Pay attention to the fee structure

Credit cards often have joining and renewal fees. However, there are cards that have no fee. When you are looking for a card, pay attention to the fee structure. The fee should not only be reasonable and but also be outweighed by the card’s benefits. Moreover, many cards allow a reversal of fees if you spend a certain amount annually. Look out for this benefit to save on the annual fees.

• Avail a loan on the card if required

Credit cards allow unsecured personal loans based on your credit history. If you require financial help, do not look for loans elsewhere. Instead, use your credit card to avail one.

•  Know your limits

If you are worried that you might overspend, you can ask your credit card company to lower your credit limit. Change it to something that you know you can manage on a monthly basis. They should be more than happy to oblige as, ultimately, they want you to pay the money back. They can make the credit limit change effective immediately. 

These are a few tips that you should follow to make a credit card work for you. Moreover, it is also advised that you compare credit cards before you choose one for yourself. Make sure that you do not use your credit cards blindly and keep yourself aware of the additional fees that may have to bear. Remember to pay off your balance on time every month to maintain a high credit score. Last but not the least, take advantage of the benefits offered to ensure that your credit card is acting as a valuable financial tool.