10 Things NOT to Do With Your First Credit Card

Getting your first credit card feels like getting a golden ticket—until you realize it’s a ticket to debt if you’re not careful. A card can build your future or bury it. Here’s how not to mess it up.

1. Don’t Think of It as Free Money

It’s not Monopoly. Every swipe is future-you’s problem.

2. Don’t Skip Reading the Fine Print

APR isn’t just alphabet soup. Those tiny numbers can eat your wallet alive.

3. Don’t Max It Out on Day One

Congrats, you bought a PS5. Now enjoy the next 3 years of minimum payments.

4. Don’t Forget to Pay on Time

Credit scores are like reputations—easy to ruin, hard to rebuild.

5. Don’t Pay Only the Minimum

That’s not “managing debt,” it’s slow financial self-sabotage.

6. Don’t Go Swipe-Happy on Nights Out

Future regret pairs badly with tequila shots and bar tabs.

7. Don’t Lend It to Friends

“Bro, I’ll Venmo you” is the financial version of “the check’s in the mail.”

8. Don’t Ignore Your Statement

Surprise charges aren’t fun surprises. Read it like it’s a plot twist.

9. Don’t Collect Cards Like Pokémon

One is power. Ten is a trap. Keep it simple.

10. Don’t Forget It’s a Tool, Not a Toy

Use it wisely, and it builds your credit. Abuse it, and it builds your anxiety.

Final Thought:

A credit card isn’t dangerous—it’s the way you use it. Treat it like training wheels for adulthood: steady, responsible, and no reckless tricks. Your future self will thank you.