After getting credit cards, it can be very tempting to go on a spending spree and buying all sorts of new things that you otherwise won’t buy before. So, chances are there that you end up shopping a lot and go beyond your affordability level. Ultimately you may be in debt. So, you must resist that temptation and use your credit cards wisely. It may be difficult; but proper planning will be helpful.

To begin with, you have to remember that you should not spend more than what you can afford. You should have a budget to figure out your affordability. Subtract your monthly expenses from your monthly income. The result you get is your disposable income; you can afford to spend on shopping. Anything beyond this you spend may cause you trouble; remember this when you use your credit cards.

However, credit cards give you the leverage to go beyond the surplus amount. But you should not exceed your disposable income just because you can do this with the credit cards. Over usage of the cards may take you to above the credit limit and won’t be able to spend any more, even if you have an emergency. And being unable to use the credit cards on emergencies is something really pathetic.

Do not use the credit cards on impulse. Unless it is very urgent, wait for some days and shop when you get some rebate or cash back. Very often, credit card companies give special offers; you can make use of these offers. This does not mean that you should not use your credit card except in emergencies. Rather, you should use your credit cards periodically. Finally, do not delay in paying off the bills. Delay in paying bills may make you pay some extra that is just money going down the drain.

The author is an expert in credit card and has written a number of authoritative articles on this subject. His articles are widely read because of the clever tips and valuable advices he provides in them.