Credit cards can be convenient and extremely useful, but knowing how to use them properly is vital. Here are 6 tips for responsible credit card use…

1. If you travel, a bank or travel and entertainment card will eliminate the need for carrying large sums of cash.
2. Buy items on sale using your credit card only if you actually need and will use them.
3. Pay each month’s bill in full and avoid interest charges.
4. Know how much you have charged on your card(s).
5. Compare fees, terms, and interest rates of at least three lenders when selecting a credit card.
6. Know the phone number to call if your cards are lost or stolen.

Credit cards are a widely used source of convenient credit for restaurants, hotels, mail order, on-line shopping, gasoline stations, grocery stores, dental and medical care, church bazaars, as well as telephone and television advertised products. There are many advantages of using credit cards, but the consequences of misuse can be drastic and painful.