Who Needs a Credit Card?
A Credit Article Contributed by Kris Griebe
I Don't Need a Credit Card!
First off, what makes you think that? Are you someone who likes to deal all in cash? Or perhaps you wear your fingers to the bone writing checks. Well, you are probably one of the many people that could use, and in fact, NEED, a credit card! Here's why.
Credit Cards are Vital to Your Financial Future
Do you plan on buying a house, or perhaps a car, in the next 10 years? Wouldn't it be nice to be able to make sure you have the credit score required to do so? Credit cards can do that!
Credit cards are a unique payment method. Sure, there are "check cards", but that is nothing more than a glorified checkbook. A credit card, however, offers you a much more valuable service than speeding your trip through the supermarket checkout. A credit card will help you build your credit score!
"No! Surely it doesn't do that? "
The answer is, "Yes, it does." Credit card companies will report your monthly status to one, or possibly all three, major credit agencies. These are the people that keep track of your credit score. So all you have to do is pay your monthly payment on time, and your credit score will rise!
Having a credit card, in good standing (this is a very important point), shows that you are a responsible, mature adult who takes care of their obligations. Credit cards are even good for teenagers looking to start their credit history the right way!
Credit Cards: Thousands of Uses!
Aside from the importance of maintaining good credit, there are thousands of other uses for having a credit card! A common use of a credit card is for financial security. Many families will have a low limit credit card that they do not use for their everyday purchases. Instead, it is dedicated to emergency circumstances.
Shopping online is another valuable use of a credit card. How many times have you seen that perfect item online, for half the price of the same item in your local store? "They only accept credit card payments... oh well." Not anymore, with a credit card, you can shop online and save money!
Want to travel overseas? Afraid to take large stacks of cash with you? Not a problem. Use your credit card! Almost every major credit card is accepted all over the world, from Europe, to Africa, even Japan! Make sure you notify your credit card company you are going to be traveling though. Often, a credit card company will put a hold on your account if they see suspicious spending, safeguarding you from getting bills you did not create!
Credit cards are a safe, reliable, and convenient way to utilize your money. They are protected by not only your precautions, but also those of the credit card issuer! So, get yourself a credit card today, and start improving your credit score -- - and your life right away!
