1. Spend Within Your Means
If you don’t have the money in your checking account to cover a credit card purchase, DON’T SPEND IT. This approach prevents you from accumulating debt you can’t pay off in full.

2. Automate Payments
Automate your credit card payments to ensure you’re never late. Set it to pay the full balance a few days before the due date to avoid interest and late fees. This helps reduce stress and eliminates the risk of forgetting.

3. Use Text Alerts for Transactions
Set up text alerts for every transaction, including card swipes, bill payments, and balance updates. This keeps you informed and helps detect any unauthorized activity quickly. This is especially helpful for people with ADHD who may not check their accounts regularly.

4. Advocate for Yourself
Don’t be afraid to call the credit card issuer to discuss fees, request a credit line increase, or ask for other adjustments. Be polite but assertive. If you explain your situation clearly, they may be willing to work with you.

5. Keep Your First Credit Card Open
Never cancel your first credit card unless there’s a compelling reason, such as high fees with no benefits. This card helps establish your credit history, which is an important factor in your credit score.

6. Maintain a Low Credit Utilization Rate
Aim to keep your credit utilization (the percentage of your credit limit that you use) below 30%, ideally below 10%. This means if you have a $2,000 credit limit, try not to carry a balance of more than $200 at any given time. High utilization can negatively impact your credit score.

7. Use Your Credit Card Regularly
To build a credit history, you need to use your credit card consistently. Use it for small, manageable purchases that you can pay off in full each month. This shows responsible credit usage, which can improve your credit score.

8. Pay Off Your Balance as Soon as Possible
Don’t carry a balance on your credit card if you can avoid it. Pay off the balance as soon as you get the bill. This not only saves you from interest charges but also keeps your credit utilization low. If anxiety helps you stay on top of payments, use it as a motivator to pay early.