WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO INCREASE YOUR CREDIT CARD LIMIT?

Considering the importance of ever-increasing financial needs, credit cards are more than just the pieces of plastic – they’re like trusted companions helping us navigate money needs. Often one confusion people have is whether they should keep their credit limit constant or change it with time to accommodate their increasing expenses. Increasing your credit card limit should be a well-considered decision based on various factors such as your credit score, income level, spending habits, and financial goals.

These factors can help you determine the appropriate timing for a credit limit increase. You can effectively manage your credit card usage and leverage its benefits while maintaining financial responsibility. Managing a credit card requires understanding and knowing when to take it to the next level. So, let’s discuss about when it might be a good time to increase your credit card limit.

Income and Credit Score

You must be aware about that feeling when you’ve been putting in the effort and seeing results. That’s how it is with a good credit score. If you’ve been diligent about paying your bills on time and keeping your credit in check, you might just be ready for a higher credit limit.

As life moves forward, so does your income. If you’ve recently gotten a raise or expect one soon, it might be the perfect time to ask for a credit limit increase. After all, more income often means more expenses, and a higher credit limit can help keep things in balance.

Also Read: How to maximize tax benefits for senior citizens in India

Adhil Shetty, CEO, Bankbazaar.com, says, “Many banks provide an annual credit limit increase to customers who have consistently paid their balances on time. You can inquire with your bank to confirm this possibility. Most banks automatically offer an annual increase, even if you haven’t requested one. Even if you believe you don’t currently require a higher limit, it’s advantageous to accept the annual credit limit increase. These increases often come with attractive rewards offers, and having a higher credit limit can be beneficial in unexpected situations. Therefore, it’s wise to take the opportunity for an annual credit limit increase, as it can provide added flexibility and reward benefits that may prove valuable in the future.”

Keeping It Balanced

Imagine your credit as a seesaw – you want to keep it balanced, not too high or too low. Your credit utilisation ratio is like the weight on one side of the seesaw. If you find yourself teetering close to the edge, increasing your credit limit can help keep you steady and improve your credit score.

Life’s Unexpected Twists

We all know that life can throw curveballs when we least expect it. Having a higher credit limit can provide a safety net for those unexpected expenses or emergencies that pop up out of nowhere.

Making the Most of Rewards

Who doesn’t love a good reward? Many credit cards offer perks like cashback or travel benefits, but sometimes, you need a higher credit limit to really take advantage of them. If you’re eyeing those rewards but feeling limited by your current credit limit, it might be time to give it a boost.

Staying Responsible

Just like in any relationship, trust and responsibility go hand in hand. If you’ve shown that you’re responsible with your spending and always pay your bills on time, you’re more likely to be approved for a credit limit increase. It’s all about building that trust and proving you can handle it.

Keeping Tabs on Your Finances

Relationships require communication and regular check-ins, and your relationship with your credit card is no different. Take the time to review your credit limit periodically and reassess your financial needs. It’s a chance to make sure everything’s on track and adjust as necessary.

Increasing your credit card limit is a big step that should be approached with care and consideration. By understanding your financial situation, you can take your credit card relationship to new heights while staying financially savvy.

2024-04-09T07:54:12Z dg43tfdfdgfd