Step 6: Reviewing, Redeeming, and Growing Your Credit

Credit management is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing process of reviewing your progress, taking advantage of your card's benefits, and looking for ways to improve your financial position over time.

Monitor Your Credit Score

Checking your score regularly helps you see the results of your habits and catch any changes early. With BrightBridge's online banking, you have the power to monitor your credit score anytime, making it easy to track your progress and stay on top of your financial health.

Redeem Rewards Regularly

If your card offers rewards or cash back, make it a habit to redeem them. Whether it's using your cash back to pay for a portion of your monthly statement or booking a trip with travel points, redeeming your rewards ensures you get the full value your card offers.

Reassess Your Card Needs Annually

Your needs may change over time. As your score improves, you may qualify for cards with lower interest rates, better rewards, or additional benefits. Reviewing your options once a year ensures your card is still the right fit.

Continue Building Positive Habits

Good credit is built through consistent actions: paying on time, keeping balances low, and managing accounts wisely. Over time, these habits can lead to more financial flexibility and opportunity.

• Low-Interest Cards: These focus on keeping interest rates as low as possible. They are ideal for people who may carry a balance and want to reduce the cost of borrowing.
• Rewards Cards: Earn points, miles, or cash back for your purchases. Best for people who pay their balances in full each month so the interest does not outweigh the rewards.
• Secured Cards: Require a refundable deposit that acts as your credit limit. A great option if you are building or repairing credit, since your payment history is reported to the credit bureaus.
• Balance Transfer Cards: Offer a low or 0% introductory rate on balances moved from other cards. These can be useful for paying off debt faster without accumulating more interest.

Ready to discuss your options? Call us or stop by a branch to talk to our team and discuss options for upgrading your card or adding another account that supports your goals.

Questions to Ask Before You Choose

1. What is the APR? This is the annual percentage rate, or interest you will pay if you carry a balance. Compare both the regular APR and any introductory rates.
2. Are there fees? Check for annual fees, late payment fees, balance transfer fees, and foreign transaction fees.
3. What are the rewards or benefits? Look at how rewards are earned, if there are spending categories that earn more points, and whether rewards expire.
4. Is there fraud protection? Many cards offer zero-liability protection, but it is worth confirming.
5. Does the card report to all three major credit bureaus? This is important for building your credit history.

Action Steps for This Stage

• Check your score monthly and track your progress.
• Redeem any earned rewards or cash back.
• Review your card annually and make changes if needed.