Credit cards 101

Five ways to spend less on credit cards

1. If your card charges an annual fee, ask that it be removed. Many cards don't charge a fee, so you can always switch to one of these (be sure to tell this to the customer service representative when you call). Most credit cards will remove the fee if you simply ask.
2. Get perks or miles with every purchase. As long as you're using your card responsibly, sign up for a mileage card or one with perks like money back with each purchase.
3. If you accidentally make a late payment, call and ask whether the late fee and interest can be removed. Most cards will do this once if you ask.
4. If you constantly make late payments because the bill is due two days before you get paid, call your credit-card company. Ask whether your billing date can be moved to a week later so you can deposit your wage and still pay the bill on time.
5. If your account is in good standing, ask whether your interest rate can be lowered a percentage point or even a fraction of a point.