5 Things to Do When you Get a Credit Card

Posted on Wednesday, October 13th, 2021 | By IndusInd Bank

So, you were finally convinced of the virtues of a credit card and decided to get yourself one. For weeks, you eagerly looked forward to shopping here and there and unlocking this reward and that. But now that your brand-new credit card just arrived in the mail, you have no idea how or where to begin. All you know is that you’re tempted to spend! Well, while credit cards are all about spending, it’s a good idea to take some time to make sure everything is correctly set up. This can help you steer clear of avoidable and costly mistakes, and might even help you save money. If you are new to using a credit card, here’s a list of 5 essential things to do when you get a credit card:

Get to Know the Terms & Fees

Your new credit card would have come with a lot of documentation. Do read through it in order to have an elementary understanding of your card’s terms and fees. Begin by checking your credit limit i.e. the maximum balance you’ll be allowed on your credit card. Familiarize yourself with the various fees associated with your credit card which include the annual fee, late payment fee, balance transfer fee, foreign transaction fee, and so on.

Install Mobile Banking

After activating your new credit card and before starting to spend, make sure to set up mobile banking by downloading your card issuer’s app. This way, you can be in control of nearly every aspect of your credit card. You can check your credit score, review your statement, and even freeze your card if you misplace or lose it – all from your smartphone. Additionally, you may set up push notifications to receive alerts every time your card is used.

Recheck the Welcome Bonus Terms

Many credit cards today come with special welcome incentives such as free hotel stay, airline companion tickets, bonus points, lower interest rates, etc. Occasionally, there may be an error and the wrong offer gets attached. Therefore, just to be on the safer side, you could call customer service and request the executive to repeat the available offers, including the bonus points or amount, the spending requirements, the deadline to meet them, and other terms & conditions. 

Set up Autopay

There is nothing more important about using a credit card than paying your dues on time and in full every month. Enrolling in autopay makes sure you never miss a payment. Additionally, it helps you avoid accruing interest on your spending and get a better credit score. Note that even a single late payment could damage your credit score, so always have enough money in your bank account to use for autopay in covering your credit card bill.

Activate the Benefits

While many credit cards automatically come with rewards, many require you to activate the benefits or enrol in those rewards. Pretty much like activating the card itself, there’s no reason to delay this step. Such benefits may include cashback at supermarkets or retail chains, airport lounge access, etc. For banks, the point of offering these rewards is that since not everybody will use these rewards, these may as well be given to customers willing to take the extra step of signing up for them.

When using your credit card, aim at restricting your expenditure to about 30% of your credit limit or less.  This is because using most of your available credit will have an adverse effect on your credit score. Moreover, you must keep your new card in a safe place and use it responsibly. Utilized sensibly, a credit card can be a true asset that boosts your lifestyle while allowing you to build a good credit report.

Think you want to apply for a credit card? Look no farther than Indus Easy Credit Cards from IndusInd Bank. Involving a simple and hassle-free 3-step online process, this instant credit card comes with a host of rewards and benefits. Why wait?! Apply for a credit card online now!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. Hence, you are advised to consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision. IndusInd Bank Limited (IBL) does not influence the views of the author in any way. IBL and the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information.