Students
Credit Card Tips

You can make sure your future is not mortgaged beyond control by following very simple strategies in dealing with credit cards:
  • Limit credit card use to emergency situations.
  • Do not use credit cards to pay tuition, room and board, and other campus expenses – there are educational loans that may be a better deal.
  • Make on-time payments. Every late payment is reported to credit agencies which may have a negative impact on your credit history. In addition, you may experience higher interest rates when you request future credit, such as a car loan or home mortgage.
  • Be smart. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Incredible offers usually have a catch that you probably didn’t see in the fine print!
  • Don't be fooled by free stuff. Credit card companies may try to lure you in with special offers of free gifts or discounts. Don't fall for it!
  • Always know the terms of the credit cards you use. Find out the interest rates, due date for payments, credit limits, over-credit charges, etc.