K.E.M. Strategic Partners LLC | 35 Village Road, Suite 100 | Middleton MA 01949 | P. 978-560-3404  |  F. 978.560.1623

 
 

Caring  |   Independent   |   Practical
Financial Services

Money Read Time: 4 min

Spotting Credit Trouble

American households with credit card balances carry an average debt of $8,602.1

The wise use of credit is a critical skill in today’s world. Used unwisely, credit can rapidly turn from a useful tool to a crippling burden. There are a number of warning signs that you may be approaching credit problems:

  1. Have you used one credit card to pay off another?
  2. Have you used credit card advances to pay bills?
  3. Do you regularly use a charge card because you are short on cash?
  4. Do you charge items you might not buy if you were paying cash?
  5. Do you need to use your credit cards to buy groceries?
  6. Are you reluctant to open monthly statements from creditors?
  7. Do you regularly charge more each month than you pay off?
  8. Do you write checks today on funds to be deposited tomorrow?
  9. Do you apply for new credit cards so you can increase borrowing?
  10. Are you receiving late and over-limit credit card charges?

It is important to recognize the warning signs of potential credit problems. The more quickly corrective action is taken, the better. Procrastinating might result in financial difficulty down the road.

1. WalletHubTM (Evolution Finance, Inc.), 2019

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Estate Management 101

Estate Management 101

A will may be only one of the documents you need—and one factor to consider—when it comes to managing your estate.

Understanding Extended Care

Understanding Extended Care

Understanding the types of extended care services—and what those services could cost—may be critical.

Data Thieves from Outer Space

Data Thieves from Outer Space

Learn about the dangers of internet fraud with this highly educational and fun “pulp” comic.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Navigating Retirement Pitfalls

Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgement.

Find That Lost Retirement Account

With over 24 million “forgotten” 401(k) accounts, you may be surprised to learn of your unclaimed “found” money.

Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare

Medicare is broken down into four specific parts—but what do they mean? This article will help you understand each piece.

View all articles

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Home Mortgage Deduction

Use this calculator to assess the potential benefits of a home mortgage deduction.

Lifetime of Earnings

Estimate how much you have the potential to earn during your working years.

View all calculators

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List

Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.

The Long Run: Women and Retirement

For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.

View all videos