Credit card debt is a revolving source of
borrowed money, usually paid for with
relatively high interest rates. Based on a user's credit
history, a credit limit and interest rate is established.
Through purchases and cash withdrawals, the user borrows
some or all of that available credit. Interest charges are
added to the debt. The cardholder is billed monthly and may
pay the debt back in increments ranging from a very low
minimum payment up to the full amount. If any debt remains
after each payment, interest is charged on the full amount
in the next monthly billing. This can result in interest
being charged on previous interest charges, which is known
as compounded interest.
For some, this revolving debt is used merely as a
convenient replacement for pocket cash. Purchases are made
on a daily basis in person or online, and the card debt is
paid in full at the end of every month. For others, it is a
way to survive between paychecks. Their balance may rise or
fall based on their current ability to pay.
The worse case scenario finds a credit
card user opting to make minimum or partial payments each
month. Their credit balance, or debt, grows steadily. If
the credit limit is reached on a card, it can no longer be
used for purchases. However, interest continues to be added
to the debt and making the required monthly minimum payment
may be the only way to avoid being sent to collection. The
user is on the verge of adversely affecting their credit
rating for years to come.
Some credit card users put off the inevitable a bit
longer by practicing revolving charges, also known as
kiting. One card's balance is paid with another credit
card, which is in turn paid by another credit card. This
practice cannot be sustained indefinitely. It may be
considered fraud if the intent is to avoid paying the debts
at all.
Even responsible use can become overwhelming. It is
important to pay down as much of the debt as possible each
month, avoiding interest-only payments. If funds are
limited, pay down the debt with the highest interest rates
first. Reducing your debt improves your credit rating.
