Credit cards are plastic cards given to consumers by credit unions, banks and other financial institutions. They offer a revolving line of credit, which means you can keep using it so long as you pay your repayments, up to a specific credit limit. Credit cards can be used improperly, leaving you in a tremendous amount of debt. However, if used properly, they can also come with a great deal of benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of getting Florida credit cards.
Convenience
Credit cards offer you a flexible payment method that is accepted in outlets all over the world. As such, it is a great alternative for cash. Sometimes, you simply don’t have enough money on you, or even in your bank, to cover an emergency. Using a credit card, understanding that it is a short term thing, is really convenient.
Improve Your Credit Rating
If you have a credit card, use it and pay it back on time, you show others that you are financially responsible. This, in turn, means that your credit rating will improve. And, if you keep it up, you will also get a higher limit.
Interest Free Periods
You can, if you are clever, switch credit card providers and have your balance taken over with an interest free period. This means that you actually don’t pay anything back other than the amount you have actually borrowed. Usually, there is a 0% interest introductory period, which can be anything from a few weeks to a few months. If you are disciplined enough to control your spending, this is a great option to keep debt under control.
Track Your Spending
You will receive a monthly statement from your credit card issuer, which means you can properly track your spending as well. The summaries are also important for your tax returns, particularly if you run a business.
Rewards
Some credit card companies come with extra rewards. For example, you can get hotel points, air miles, cash back and others. These rewards can accumulate quite significantly depending on how often you use your card. Plus, many issuers give additional benefits, like free identity theft protection, travel insurance, roadside assistance and more.
Consumer Protection
If you make purchases with your credit card online and you don’t receive them, or if you find the goods are defective, you can dispute the charge with the credit card company. Naturally, you first port of call should be the company where you made your purchase, but if they have very poor customer service, the credit card company can come to your aid.
Fraud Protection
Because credit cards are hot items for identity thieves, issuers now provide you with a wealth of fraud protection. If your card is skimmed, stolen, lost or otherwise compromised, they will generally provide you with all the help you need to restore it. If charges were made to your card that weren’t yours, they will be refunded to you. In most cases, credit card companies are much quicker in doing this than banks.