6 credit card tips for all users

You may already know the basics of smart credit card use, such as paying your bill on time, keeping interest to a minimum and not letting your balance get too high. If you're ready to make the most of your credit card, these tips will help you take your credit card smarts to the next level.

1. Consider when and how much you pay

Paying your credit card bill before the due date means you avoid late fees and other potential penalties, such as a hit to your credit score and a higher interest rate.

Paying as much of your balance as possible each month will help you keep interest charges from getting too high. If you can, keep your total balance under 30% of your total credit limit. One of the factors that determines your credit score is the amount of credit you use, and generally, the lower, the better.

Pro tip: If you're looking to improve your credit score, make your payment before the end of your monthly billing cycle, also known as the closing date. Many cards report your account details to the credit agencies on the closing date. But if you pay down your current balance just before the closing date, then it looks like you charged less on your card than you actually did. This helps to keep your credit utilization ratio low — which accounts for 30% of your credit score.

2. Understand APR and balance transfer promotions

If you have a balance on a credit card with high interest, you may want to consider transferring that debt to a card with a lower rate. Many issuers will offer a 0% introductory APR (annual percentage rate) or a no fee balance transfer period.

However, many experts advise novice cardholders to avoid balance transfers and APR promotions, as they can lead to hefty fees and more trouble down the road. But if you have a proven track record of being responsible with credit, you could find an offer that is beneficial to you.

You can usually transfer the balance from one card to another online or by contacting the card issuer by phone and requesting the transfer. Before you do so, be clear on the timeline for paying off the transferred balance. You may have just a few months or up to a year to repay without accruing interest. If you're taking advantage of an introductory APR, make sure you know when that rate ends.

Pro tip: Read the terms and conditions before you accept a credit card offer. In many cases, if you miss a payment, you could lose the promotional rate and be on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for.

3. Use your credit card's mobile app

Your credit card's details, including the latest charges, your rewards balance and bill due dates, are always at your fingertips thanks to mobile banking. Using your credit card's mobile app* allows you to pay your bill no matter where you are or what time it is.

The app can give you peace of mind by letting you freeze your card if you temporarily misplace it or cancel the card altogether if you lose it. Since you can see card transactions in real time, you can track your spending or act quickly if you spot any charges that aren't familiar.

Pro tip: Got a rewards card? With the Citizens mobile app*, you can redeem your rewards in just a few clicks. Choose your reward type, then select the amount you'd like to redeem. The credit should appear in your account within a few days.

4. Ask for a higher credit limit

Increasing your credit limit decreases your credit utilization ratio, which can have a positive impact on your credit score. For example, if your credit card's limit is increased from $1,000 to $2,000 and your balance remains at $600, your utilization would immediately drop from 60% to 30%. That would have a significant positive effect on your credit score.

To request a credit limit increase, contact your credit card company's customer service and explain your reasons, such as improved income or a strong payment history. Be prepared to provide financial details, including your current income and employment status.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that depending on your credit card company, getting a credit increase could negatively impact your score temporarily. That's because credit card issuers will sometimes perform a hard inquiry on your credit before they increase your limit to ensure you meet their standards.

Pro tip: You might be surprised to find that some issuers will increase their card members' credit limits periodically as a reward for responsible spending and paying their bills on time.

5. Check your statement and credit report regularly

When you get your credit card statement each month, don't just blindly pay the bill. Read over the charges on the statement to confirm that they are legitimate, especially if the balance is higher than you were expecting.

You can also log in online or use your bank's mobile app to check the charges on your card regularly, confirming that you made them. Report any unknown or suspicious charges ASAP so that your credit card company can act and reverse them.

Pro tip: Keep tabs on your credit report too. You can check your report for free with each of the credit reporting agencies once a year. When reviewing your report, keep an eye out for any accounts you don't recognize and report them immediately.

6. Stay on top of recurring payments

Recurring or subscription payments take one thing off your to-do list. But when it's time to upgrade your card or replace an expiring card, you'll need to make sure those payments are up to date. Before your current card expires or is replaced, review your statements from the past year.

Make a list of any recurring payments, whether they are monthly, quarterly or annual. Then, go to your accounts for those payments and update your card information.

Pro tip: Keep in mind that some merchants use an automatic account updater service, so they may make the change for you, without you having to lift a finger. It's a good idea to check to confirm that your card information is up to date, no matter what.

Keep these tips in mind when you apply for your next card

Credit cards can make your life easier while giving you perks, like cashback and other rewards. They can also help you build your credit and raise your credit score.

No matter what you're looking for in your next credit card, whether it's rewards, a low interest rate or a balance transfer offer, Citizens has a credit card that meets your needs. Take a look at the options.