My immigrant parents preached these 5 credit card rules. Here’s how they hold up.
My immigrant parents urged me to only carry a few cards, use them sparingly and never pay interest, among other lessons — how many still hold up?
Credit card knowledge – how to avoid and manage debt, build credit, optimize rewards and bonuses – is an integral part of financial literacy today. While it can be a bit daunting, learning the ins and outs of credit cards is worth it to help create a solid budget and strong financial foundation.
— Reena Thomas, Ph.D.
About the author
Reena Thomas, Ph.D., is an editor/writer at Bankrate and CreditCards.com with a focus on credit card reward offers. She enjoys delving into the credit card landscape to help readers make valuable credit card decisions that are right for them.
Reena has over a decade of experience in education and publishing. Before joining Bankrate in 2023, she was a copy editor for NurseJournal, Trillium Publishing, Voyager Expanded Learning, and Rockefeller University Press. She also worked as a tenure-track college English instructor after receiving her doctorate and has published academic articles.
When she isn't writing and researching about credit cards, Reena can be found exploring her neighborhood for charming coffee shops, scenic trails, and friendly dog parks.
Reena's recommended readings
A beginner’s guide to credit card points
Credit card rewards mistakes to avoid
Which rewards credit card is best for me?
Credit card knowledge – how to avoid and manage debt, build credit, optimize rewards and bonuses – is an integral part of financial literacy today. While it can be a bit daunting, learning the ins and outs of credit cards is worth it to help create a solid budget and strong financial foundation.
— Reena Thomas, Ph.D.
My immigrant parents urged me to only carry a few cards, use them sparingly and never pay interest, among other lessons — how many still hold up?
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