In today’s world, our credit score says a lot about who we are, and more and more people are accessing credit scores for a variety of reasons. Do you want to get that cellular phone plan with the free flip phone? Well, your credit score may determine whether or not you are eligible. Do you want to rent an apartment in the gated community with the spa and swimming pool? Well, the leasing manager is probably going to check up on your credit history. Did you apply for your dream job? Well, more and more businesses are using credit scores as one of the deciding factors in hiring. As you can see, not only is a good credit score a must for a decent car loan or mortgage, it is a necessity for almost anything.

Since your credit history is available to just about anyone who wants it and gets your permission to view it, it is vital that you establish credit in your name and then manage your credit well. What exactly does it mean to manage you credit? Well, there are four basic premises you should always follow with regard to your credit:

Keep only one credit card. Many folks fall into the pit of accepting every credit card offer that comes in the mailbox. Avoid the temptation. You may have heard the common expression, “The more money you make, the more you will spend.” That old maxim does indeed seem to be true, and it also true that the more credit cards you have, the more you will charge. Pretty soon, debt can get out of hand and you may find yourself overextended. Stick to one card.

Use up to fifty percent of your maximum. Some people are in the habit of “maxing out” their credit cards. Avoid the trap. If something happens and you need credit for an emergency, you won’t have any because you already spent your allotment. If you are going to carry a balance on your card, be sure to stay well below your limit.

Pay your bills on time. Nothing ruins your hard-earned good credit score faster than not paying your bills on time. Forgetting is no excuse. If you have to, consider signing up for automatic bill paying through your bank account or have your credit card company send you email reminders of due dates.

Keep track of your credit report. Identity theft and just plain human error can adversely affect your credit rating, and the longer a mistake is on your report, the harder it can be to get it removed or corrected. So, take a look at your credit report quarterly, twice a year, or at the very least once every year. That way, you can catch misinformation early and make the necessary corrections before your banker turns you down for a mortgage on your dream house.

A sound credit history is security for you and your family. Take the time to manage your credit responsibly, and when you need it most, your credit score will be there to get your back.