Statistics provided by the US Census Bureau show that the number of credit cards owned by American consumers is increasing. Many people have credit cards as an emergency backup resource when they need extra funds. However, with high credit card fees and interest rates, your credit card debt can get out of control. Instead of dealing with the stress of your increasing debt, consider canceling your credit cards for the following reasons:
Eliminate your debt: Not owning a credit card means you don’t have unnecessary debt. If you max out one credit card and decide to pay off your debt with another credit card, you’re still left with credit card debt. This vicious cycle can escalate and leave you in a financial mess.
Maintain your budget: Staying within your budget is easier when you use cash for your purchases. Physically seeing the money you have makes you more reluctant to frivolously spend it. Handing over a credit card each time you make a purchase doesn’t make you realize how much you’re spending altogether. The shock sets in once you get your credit card statement. If you want to use a card to make your purchases and stay within your budget, use a prepaid card. Store-bought prepaid cards only allow you to spend the amount of money you put on them. When you run out of funds on your prepaid card you can replenish it as your budget allows.
Protect yourself: Each time you hand over your credit card to make a purchase you give others access to your credit card information. Whether you purchase items online or in a store, you subject yourself to identity theft. When you use cash there’s no need to disclose personal information. Identity theft can create a financial nightmare that leaves you with debt that can take years to clear up.
Avoid temptation: Credit card companies often offer tempting bonuses to attract consumers. Frequent flyer miles and points you can accrue when you use your card are not worth the hassle of paying back the money owed. Annual fees and interest rates quickly add up and add to your financial stress. Avoid using your card or acquiring one just to gain points or bonuses.
Save up: Instead of keeping an emergency credit card on hand, get rid of it. Instead, start saving up so you have at least $1000 available for emergencies.
Tags: budgeting, credit, Credit Card, credit card consolidation, Credit Card Debt, credit card debt consolidation, credit card debt settlement, credit settlement, financial planning, money / finance, personal finance, planning
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