Credit cards

Credit cards offer many advantages. There is the convenience of being able to buy needed items now and the security of not having to carry cash. You also receive fraud protection — and in some cases, rewards — for making purchases. With these advantages also come responsibilities. You need to manage credit cards wisely by understanding all of the card's terms and conditions; stay on top of payments; and realise the true cost of purchases made with credit. Using a credit card is like taking out a loan. If you don't pay your card balance in full each month, you'll pay interest on that loan.

Choose wisely

The best way to maximize the benefits of credit cards is to understand your money needs and wants. Once you determine how you'll use a credit card, it's important to understand all of the card's features, including:

• Interest rates and whether rates are fixed or variable
• Annual, late and over-limit fees
• Credit limit on account
• Grace periods before interest begins accruing
• Rewards, including airline miles or cash back

Stay alert

Some credit card issuers offer free, personalised and automatic alert messages to your phone and email to help you keep track of:

• Available credit
• Balances
• Payment due dates
• Payment histories
• Purchase activity

Understand Your Rights

Credit cardholders are entitled to protections:

• Zero liability means you are not responsible for fraudulent charges when you report them promptly.
• In some cases, you have the right to dispute purchases with merchants for unsatisfactory products or services.