There is no doubt the best way to stay out of credit card debt is not to have any credit cards in the first place. It's certainly not a good idea to use a credit card just to increase your income and help you get through the month because it will mean that the next month you struggle more as you have more money to pay back.

However, credit cards can be useful for certain purchases (to spread the cost of larger purchases) and for budgeting, if used sensibly.

Using credit cards wisely

The recommended way to use a credit card is to pay off whatever you spend every month. That way the debt doesn't build up and interest is kept to a minimum, eliminating credit card debt at source.

Of course, many people have more credit card debt than they can handle and it is easy to let spending on your plastic get out of control.

Credit card debt problems

There is no shame in having a credit card debt problem. The important thing is to acknowledge that it is getting out of control and get professional help.

Here at CCCS, we can provide you with free, impartial debt counselling and help you eliminate credit card debt by advising you on the best solution to take.

You can use our online service, CCCS Debt Remedy, for debt help and advice to take control of your credit card debt.