6 reasons to use a double-edge Credit Card instrument everywhere

Remember the last time you picked up a kitchen knife to slice through a sweet lime or whatever your favorite fruit might be. Ever wondered how people would have reacted in the 18th century when knives first moved from the battlefield to enter homes? Whilst gourmet meals can now be created in every household, there were a few bleeding fingers along the way too.

But like any other powerful instrument, we humans have mastered the art of using it to our benefit, and today it might be difficult to find a single home on this planet without the humble kitchen knife.

Akin to the above example is, arguably, one of the most powerful financial instrument ever invented the credit card. Credit Cards have been around for the past half a century or so, but till date they’ve been shrouded in mystery, folklore and fear. To the level, that only 4% Indians hold a credit card compared to 100% in the developed nations.

Of course, we need to know how to wield this instrument so as to not bleed with burden of financial debt or messed up credit scores.

Here are 6 ways a credit card can improve your financial health and improve your quality of life:
 

1. Upgrade or Advance lifestyle
 

Allows you to upgrade your family’s comfort by giving you access to instant credit to purchase goods & services.

2. Flexible Re-payment options

Unlike a fixed tenure loan product, credit cards allow you to revolve (pay back partial amounts every month) OR pay in fixed EMIs OR clear off all balances at one go.

3. Rewarding

Most credit cards offer some sort of rewards or cashbacks, which makes it rewarding. Many customers see credit card as a way to effectively discount the price of your goods/services as compared to other payment instruments like UPI or debit cards.  

4. Credit score

Your credit score is like your academic track record over the years. The better it is, the more likely is your chance to secure an admission into a good college and thereby a good future. A good credit score is important while applying for a home loan or even a personal loan.  An easy way to build a good credit score is by applying for a credit card and making timely payments. Its simple things like not defaulting on a payment that help in the long run.

5. Security
 

Carrying cash has its own risks, in terms of loss, damage or theft. A credit card on the other hand, has security features in-built like an embedded Chip and a PIN which only you would know. Also, you can always call your issuer and block the card in case of loss/theft. Some issuers also provide purchase protection and insurance.

6. Convenience
 

Credit cards can be used across online and offline stores. and most credit cards today are contactless, which means you can zip through checkout lanes, by just tapping and moving on, making it super-quick and convenient.

Most customers prefer to use a credit card even if they don’t need credit for the reasons mentioned above.

Hope you can now appreciate the benefits and explore getting one, if not done already! Of course, it goes without saying that one should select the most relevant product for one self, plan the re-payments and pay back the dues appropriately so as not to bleed with potentially high interest burden. As with anything else, use your credit card prudently and monitor your spend regularly so as to not overspend. After all its your money.

At IDFC First Bank, we have a whole range of credit cards that are super rewarding.  If you wish to know more, then explore IDFC FIRST Bank’s range of credit cards.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.