The credit card industry has been booming over the past few decades. Why not? They offer a service that many love to utilize. American’s have utilized it to a tune of about 70 Billion dollars at last check. But, what a deal. Buy now, pay later. No money, no problem. Well, I guess that depends on how you look at it. Or, perhaps from which side of the fence that you stand on. From the credit card companies side of the fence, it is awesome. From the consumer’s side, it can be a little frightening. Don’t get me wrong, credit cards can be a great thing. They are the future. I see a day when cash will not be utilized at all, where all transactions are made on plastic. And although the bottom line is that credit card companies will always have the upper hand, that does not mean that credit cards cannot be a successful financial enterprise for the consumer, as well.

Knowledge is the key to success. The more you know about your credit cards, credit scores and how to play the game, the better your odds of success. Here are 6 things credit card companies would rather you didn’t know.

1. 1. Some credit cards come with a Universal Default Clause. This is where it becomes vitally important that you read the small print. This clause simply states, that if you are late on your payment, your interest rate can automatically rise as high as 30%. Here is the kicker. Even if you are late on another credit card, not even with the same company, with this clause, they can still raise your interest rate. Do not use cards with this clause. If you can, transfer your credit to a card that does not have a Universal Default Clause.
2. 2. Do not be lead to believe that all you have to do is make your minimum monthly payment. This will normally only cover 1% or 2% of your balance. With interest and fee’s, a $1000 debt could literally take years to pay off. It is always better to pay off your balance monthly, or do so as close as you can.
3. 3. Proven fact. Those who purchase with credit cards, buy more. Consumers tend to double their purchases when using a credit card. Think about it. If you go to the mall with cash, you will be more reluctant to use it all up. But with a credit card, no problem, it won’t cost you a penny today. Treat your credit card like cash.
4. 4. Do not max out your credit card. Ever. Always try to spend no more that 50% of your credit limit. Whenever you cross that 50% margin, you credit score can go up. Creditors frown on maxed out credit cards.
5. 5. Do not be fooled by all the credit card rewards programs. You will pay for them in one way or another. Avoid these, or do not bank your choice of a credit card on them. You will be better off in the end.
6. 6. If you are not happy with your credit card, you can call your credit card company and seek a better deal. If you feel your interest is to high, give them a call. If you think the fee’s are to high, or your payments are to steep, give them a call. It is in their best interests to deal with you, or risk losing you to a card that offers you more.

Know your card. Read the fine print. Never cancel a card, it hurts your score. Simply cut it in half and use another. Education is your best tool. Make your payments, be responsible, and you can enjoy your credit cards without a mountain of debt.

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Debbie Dragon is a writer for CreditorWeb.com, where she writes about credit cards, credit card offers and general personal fnance.