Thursday, November 29, 2018 - Article by: Chris - 1st Nationwide Mortgage -
Credit cards make paying for things a whole lot simpler, but the drawback is that you get hit with large interest payments down the road. Even though you are able to pay for it with credit doesn't mean it's smart. The following is a list of items you should not pay for using your credit card:1. TaxesIf you have a substantial tax balance owed to the federal, state or city government, it's enticing to pay off the tax bill with your credit card, but then you find yourself actually paying even more money due to the higher interest rate on your card(s). As an alternative, inquire about paying the tax bill back on an installment plan. Of course you'll be required to pay interest, but nine times out of ten, it is much less than what you would pay back the credit card company.
2. Medical BillsAnother liability that would tempt you to pay using your credit card are medical bills. Similar to local and federal tax payment plans, you have the choice of paying the medical debt under an installment agreement. Sure, It will require some time, but over time it's easier to manage.
3. College Tuition FeesThe interest rates for tuition continues to be less than credit cards. If you don't have the money to handle the monthly payments, then contact the school about grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid. If you look hard and long enough, typically you'll come across some unknown scholarships that you are eligible for.
4. CharityA growing number of charitable organizations now accept donations paid through a credit card. Once more, stay cautious about it being convenient to pay using your credit card. The better option is to donate with your own money (cash or check) as opposed to your credit. If you use your credit card, you'll be making two donations: one to the charity and the other to the credit card company.
5. Go Paperless for SecurityIt is rarely safe to put your credit card information in the mail (even though many companies enable you to do so); the last thing you want is for your credit card information to end up with criminals. Criminals today are smarter and even make the minimum payments so you are not alerted. Then they make several large purchases and let the payment go late,impacting your ability to get a good interest rate. Moreover, if your account has a dispute, lenders may need this to be completely resolved. Make your payment online or over the phone.
6. Large DebtsIt is not worth all the hassle to pay off one debt with another, especially if it leads to paying a lot of interest. Larger companies won't let you to pay off large debts such as mortgage loans with a credit card, but some institutions will, and this is where you need to be very careful.
Your best option is to make small purchases that you are able to pay off at the end of the month. Your credit card can be a very helpful for of payment, but it can also hurt you if you aren't sensible.
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