6 little-known credit card tips that can help your credit health

Banks are trying to attract customers and are usually willing to offer cardholders benefits and benefits, including low interest rates, rewards and even signing bonuses. But do you know, if you ask, credit card issuers may also provide some additional services? We've put together a list of six little-known benefits, and as long as you make a call, these benefits are available – some may even help your credit health.


1. Change the date the bill expires


Your on-time payment history is usually one of the most important factors in calculating your credit score, so delaying payment on your credit card may have a negative impact on your score. If you are having trouble dealing with multiple credit cards, try calling your credit card provider and requesting a transfer of your bill's monthly due date. If you can sync all your credit card expiration dates, you can minimize the chance of forgetting to pay.


2. Limit spending and prepaid cash


There is usually a strong correlation between your credit card usage and your credit score. Experts usually recommend keeping your balance and credit limit below 30%. So, for example, if your account has a total credit line of $10,000, you need to keep your total balance below $3,000 to keep your credit utilization below 30%.


You can ask for an upper limit on the amount of purchases allowed on your credit card and cash advances, so you can keep your credit card usage at a comfortable level. Since prepaid cash charges and interest are usually higher than the purchase rate, you may wish to set the prepaid cash limit to $0 to avoid these increased costs.


3. Increase your credit limit


One way to reduce credit utilization is to increase the credit limit. If your current credit limit is low, or sometimes you have a balance, try asking to increase your credit card limit. Remember, if there is a higher credit limit that will entice you to spend more, this may not be the best strategy for you. Also, asking for a higher limit may result in a tough query, which may affect your credit score, so consider whether it is worthwhile to add possible queries.


4. Lower interest rate


Banks are often more willing to work with long-term customers. If you have been in the bank for a long time, it is not a bad thing to politely ask for a lower interest rate, especially if you have established a history of paying on time. Although you should do your best to repay the full amount on time every month, if you need a balance, a lower interest rate will help you reduce the amount you need to pay.


5. Cancellation of late fees


If this is your first time late, the bank may be willing to waive the late payment fee. In fact, some credit card providers, such as discover, even offer credit cards that automatically exempt you from the first delay in payment. But you may not want to count on this. Try your best to pay as soon as possible. If you miss the payment, try to explain your situation to the bank - they may help you.

6. Free credit card annual fee


If you want to cancel your credit card to avoid the annual fee, consider calling the card issuer first, because closing your account will affect your credit. Banks may be willing to waive your annual fee, especially in the first year, or provide a report credit or bonus points to keep you as a customer.