Credit card companies make their money on the 85% of us who fail to pay the outstanding balance each month. Even if you are not in a position to pay the balance each month you can still save some money if use your card wisely.

The first and most obvious way to save money is to pay the balance each month. However if this is not possible then there are ways to save money. Moving money from credit card to credit card to take advantage of interest free balance transfers and effectively borrowing money for free. Be sure to read the terms and conditions on each card before you transfer.

Pay your credit card bill on time and avoid late fees which can cost you up to $40 each time. Check the payment option and guidelines on your bill. The best method of avoiding late fees is to setup a direct debit for the minimum payment each month.

Keep a close eye on your fees and charges and manage them very closely. Check you balance statement every month. Avoid withdrawing cash from your credit card. These services will cost you from 2% upwards of the amount drawn.

So the bottom line is by using your credit cards wisely you can reduce adverse effects of credit cards and maximize the benefits by spending wisely, using self-discipline, and paying off your balance as quickly as possible to avoid unnecessary fees. Credit Card Tips

(c) Noel Hynes, 2005. Reprint rights granted to copy and publish this article as long as the article and by-line are reprinted intact. Credit Card Tips

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