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How Many Credit Cards Should I Have - Coast Tradelines

Dec 19

How Much Credit Cards Should I Have? The Intersection of Credit Cards and Tradelines Explained

 

One question that boggles people with regard to their finances is "How many credit cards do I need?" This question becomes particularly pertinent if you are contemplating adding tradelines to your credit score. Let's clarify this issue giving you the knowledge and guidelines to make informed financial decisions.

The Conundrum of Credit Card Numbers: Why It Matters

The number of credit-cards you carry is not just an issue of personal preference. It also influences the credit score. While you're aware that credit cards can boost your credit score, you're probably confused as to how many credit cards you should have.

The Pros and Cons of Owning Multiple Credit Cards

Before we look at the number of credit card you should own we'll first take a look at the benefits and downsides that come with having multiple credit cards.

Advantages of Owning Multiple Credit Cards

  • If you own multiple credit cards the credit limit may be greater. A credit limit that is high is beneficial for emergency expenses or large purchases.
  • Make use of credit cards that have rewards and cashback programs to save money when you purchase things on a daily basis.
  • Your credit utilization ratio is likely to increase. Your credit utilization ratio refers to the percentage of your credit available that you are currently using. A variety of credit cards can increase your credit score through dividing your balances.

Disadvantages of Owning Multiple Credit Cards

  • Multiple credit cards can make you more prone to spend too much and end up in debt.
  • It's easy to make impulsive purchases that you're not able to pay for when you're juggling multiple credit cards.
  • The management of multiple credit cards can take more time and effort. More so if the payment timetables change.
  • More cards could lead to a high rate of utilization. A high CUR could hurt your credit score.
  • Different cards come with different perks. If you have too many cards, you risk being left out of many benefits.
  • On the other hand being a card holder with too many can make keeping track on payment due dates difficult. It can lead to the occurrence of late fees and damage to your credit score.

Key Points to Consider When Applying for Credit Cards

  1. Differential Benefits: Look for cards that offer various perks, such as travel rewards, cashback or low-interest rates.
  2. Annual Fees It is important to make sure the card's benefits far exceed any annual charges.
  3. Interest Rates: The APR should be low. vital unless you're sure that you'll finish the balance each month.
  4. Credit Limit: A higher credit limit can benefit your credit utilization ratio, provided that you don't max it out.

Average Number Credit Cards Should I Have

Now that we have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of owning multiple credit cards let's explore the number of credit cards you should own. What is too many, and how many are enough?

Financial experts suggest having between 3 and five credit cards to create an extensive credit profile. This can provide a variety of advantages and improves the credit utilization ratio.

Factors to Consider When Deciding The Number Credit Cards to Own

Many factors need to be considered when deciding on the number of credit cards you have. These factors include:

  • Credit score and history The credit score you have and your history will decide how many credit cards you are eligible for. You will only be eligible for one or two credit cards if you have poor credit scores or a limited credit history.
  • In addition to your expenses, your income and expenses will also be crucial. If you've got a high income and very low expenses, it is possible to manage more credit cards than those with lower incomes and higher expenses.
  • Priorities and goals for your financial life: Your goals in terms of finances and priorities can influence the number of credit-cards you can own. If you're looking at improving your credit rating, or earn rewards points, consider owning a number of credit cards.

Recommended Number of Credit Cards Based on Different Scenarios

Here are some suggested numbers of credit card numbers based on different scenarios:

  • For those who have no credit history: If you do not have credit history, then you might qualify for one or two credit cards.
  • For people having average credit scores If you're averaging credit score, you might have up to three credit cards.
  • For people with outstanding credit scores: If you have excellent credit you may be able to hold four or more credit cards.

How Owning Multiple Credit Cards Affects Your Credit Score

Now that we have examined how many credit cards should you have we can look into how using multiple credit cards affects your credit score.

Positive Impact of Owning Multiple Credit Cards on Credit Score

Multiple credit cards could be beneficial to your credit score, in a variety ways which include:

  • Improved credit utilization ratio: The fact that you have multiple credit cards can aid in improving your CUR. It spreads your balances among multiple cards.
  • Diversified credit mix: A diversified credit mix can help improve your credit score.

Negative Impact of Owning Multiple Credit Cards on Credit Score

Multiple credit cards may harm your credit score in the following ways:

    • Greater risk of missing payments and delinquencies credit card accounts could lead to greater risk of missing payments. There is also a risk of becoming delinquent on your accounts.
    • Increased credit inquiries and the opening of new accounts If you apply for several credit cards can result in multiple credit queries and new accounts. Both can lower your credit score.
    • Lower average age of accounts Possessing multiple credit cards can help reduce the age average of your accounts. This can affect your credit score.
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Coast Tradelines

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1412 Broadway, 21st Fl NY, NY 10018

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