After you've determined how much credit you can afford, follow these
steps to manage it well：
Know your loan's credit terms or the terms of your credit card agreement.
Understand the terms of the agreement before you accept a loan or credit card.
Set aside money each payday for emergencies.
Set a monthly limit for charges and stick to it.
Shop as carefully with credit as you do with cash.
Don't take on more monthly credit payments than you can afford.
Pay bills promptly to avoid penalties and to keep finance charges low.
If you charge day-to-day expenses, make sure you pay down enough monthly to keep your debt or credit card from ballooning.
Keep credit card information (including phone number of issuer) in a safe place in case your cards are lost or stolen.
Keep copies of sales slips and compare charges when bills arrive. If there's a mistake, call your credit card company right away.
Here are a few simple rules that can help you build and maintain a solid credit standing：
Pay at least the minimum payment due on time every month.
Don't overextend yourself. Don't spend more than what you can repay.
Spend as you earn. Don't borrow in anticipation of future earnings.
Avoid transferring balances unless you are really getting a better interest
rate.
Notify creditors when you move, so your bills will arrive on time and you
can pay on time. If you don't get your bill, you are not excused from making
the payment. Be aware of the due dates of your loans or credit card
and if you don't receive a statement, call the customer service number
listed on a previous statement or credit card. The company can tell you your minimum payment and where to make the payment.
