💰5 common card mistakes that hurt your score

Credit cards can be your best friend—or your worst enemy. They’re great for building credit and earning rewards, but even small mistakes can hurt your credit score and cost you big time. Let’s break down the top 5 credit card mistakes you want to avoid to keep your credit score in tip-top shape.

1. Making Late Payments

Late payments are like showing up late to a big game—they can really mess things up. Your payment history makes up 35% of your credit score, so missing even one can drop your score by a lot. Avoid this by setting up payment reminders or automating your payments.

2. Maxing Out Your Credit Limit

Maxing out your card is a no-no because it increases your credit utilization ratio, which makes up 30% of your score. Aim to keep your balance below 30% of your limit, and always pay off your balance in full every month.

3. Applying for Too Many Cards at Once

Applying for multiple credit cards in a short time frame can make you look desperate for credit. Each application triggers a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your score. Space out your applications and only apply for cards that you really need.

4. Closing Old Credit Accounts

Closing old accounts can seem like a good idea, but it can actually hurt your score by reducing your credit history length and increasing your credit utilization ratio. Instead, keep those accounts open and make a small purchase once in a while to keep them active.

5. Ignoring Your Credit Card Statements

Skipping your statements is like ignoring your inbox—you might miss something important. Review your statements regularly to catch any fraudulent charges, errors, or unexpected fees.

Bonus Tips:

Avoid these pitfalls, and you’ll be on your way to better financial health and a stronger credit score. Remember, credit cards are a tool—not a crutch. Use them wisely, and they’ll work in your favor!

Ready to take control? Get the most rewards from our recommended cards here or give you credit score a boost fast here.

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