Credit cards are a blessing during an emergency. However, if you use it carelessly, it can get you into deep trouble. If your credit card dues accumulate, it will take umpteen years and huge sacrifices to clear it off.

So, if you are one of those people who uses their credit cards excessively, make sure you do not fall into a deep financial pit. Given below are some useful guidelines to help you steer clear off credit card debts.

Never miss your payments
One of the best means to make sure your credit card debt does not go out of control is to ensure that your payments are made on time every month. If you miss a single payment, the next payment along with a late fee could put a big strain on your budget.

Never lend your credit card
This should go without a saying; never lend your credit card to a friend. Although he or she may promise to repay the amount, you are the sole person responsible for the charges applied. In case they are unable to make the payment on time, you will have to repay it with interest.

Keep the minimum number of credit cards
It is always wise to keep a tab on the number of credit cards you own. The more cards you have, the more you are likely to spend. So, it is always advisable to strictly limit the number of credit cards you own.

Never get a cash advance on your credit card
This is one of the worst ways to have credit card debt at a fast pace. Suppose you need to use your credit card to withdraw some emergency cash, it already implies that you are in some kind of financial crisis. This, as a result, becomes one of the first signs that you are going into that deep pit of credit card debt. Try to avoid getting a cash advance through your credit card as much as possible.

Read the terms and conditions mentioned in your credit card
It is imperative to be crystal clear about the terms and conditions about the use of your credit card. Be clear about when a fee will be charged and what can cause the interest to hike up. One needs to have a clear picture of the various features as well.

Steer clear of unwanted transfers
It is not a good idea to transfer the balance of one pending credit card to another to avert due dates. Unless there is a real valid reason, like a comparatively low-interest rate or some other attractive feature, it is best to avoid unwanted transfers as even balance transfers are charged.