Credit cards can be powerful financial tools or costly ones, depending on how they’re used. When used wisely, credit cards should help you manage cash flow, reduce interest costs, and build strong credit habits over time. Below are a few suggestions to make credit cards work harder for you.
Start by paying less interest
One of the biggest challenges cardholders face is carrying balances on high-interest credit cards. Many rewards cards come with high interest rates, well over 20%, that quietly drain your budget month after month.
At Credit Union of Ohio, members can take advantage of:
- Free credit card balance transfers, allowing you to move balances from higher-interest cards at other institutions
- Low fixed-rates, from 9.90% - 19.90%, which helps keep interest costs predictable and affordable
Pro tip: Lowering your interest rate means more of your payment goes toward your balance instead of interest, helping you pay down debt faster.
Don’t overpay for rewards
Rewards cards can sound appealing but many come with high annual fees that outweigh the benefits, especially if you carry a balance.
Credit Union of Ohio’s Rewards Visa offers:
- No annual fee
- No tricky terms
- A variable rate that’s typically lower than most rewards cards1
Pro tip: Skipping cards with an annual fee can free up money for savings, debt reduction, or everyday expenses.
Use credit cards as a tool, not a crutch
Responsible credit card use doesn’t mean avoiding credit altogether. It means using your credit intentionally. A few smart habits to keep in mind include:
- Charge only what you can reasonably pay off
- Make payments on time, every time
- Try to keep balances low, relative to your credit limit
- Use cards for planned expenses rather than impulse purchases
Pro tip: Following these four habits will help protect your financial health and support a stronger credit profile over time.
Check in on your full financial picture
If you’re unsure whether a balance transfer or a new card makes sense, you don’t have to figure it out alone. You can schedule a free financial counseling session where a financial counselor will help you review your current situation, identify opportunities to save on interest, create a realistic plan to pay down debt, and work on broader financial goals.
Pro tip: There’s no pressure and no judgment during these sessions. You can expect practical guidance to help you save money and feel more confident about your finances.
Are you ready to make credit work for you?
Whether you’re carrying balances elsewhere, just starting to build credit, or simply looking to make smarter money moves, small changes can add up to meaningful savings.
At Credit Union of Ohio, we aim to be your trusted financial partner in providing access to the tools, guidance, and support you need to succeed. From free financial counseling and financial education to low-interest lending options and unique savings products, we’re here to help you build your best life. Call 800.443.5698 or stop by your local branch to get personalized help today.
1 - Rate currently as low as 15.74% - 24.99% as of 03-02-2026. Rate will vary based on the Prime Rate as reported in Wall Street Journal on the last business day of the previous calendar month. Rate comparison based on national average of 23.77% APR for Rewards cards as reported by LendingTree; Average Credit Card Interest Rate in US Today, 2/11/2026.