Is there a problem with having too many credit cards?

So, is it a bad thing to have a wallet bursting with credit cards? Honestly, I used to think it was super cool, you know? Like, so many options! But then I started reading up on it, and it’s not quite as simple as I thought.

Turns out, having tons of open credit cards isn’t usually a huge deal for your credit score itself. I mean, my aunt Mildred has like, five or six, and she’s got a fantastic score. She’s always bragging about it, which, you know, is a whole other story. But the thing is, it’s about when you get those cards.

Opening a bunch all at once? That’s where things can get a little tricky. I remember my brother, bless his heart, he tried to get approved for, I kid you not, seven different cards in one month to get some rewards points for a trip. His credit score took a tiny dip. Apparently, opening loads of new accounts in a short time makes your credit history look a little…younger, on average. And younger accounts, they don’t carry as much weight as older, established ones. Makes sense, right? It’s like, would you trust a brand-new restaurant more than one that’s been around for twenty years? Probably not. Same deal with credit history.

So, while having, say, three or four cards isn’t necessarily a problem—in fact, it can even be helpful for different spending habits—going crazy and applying for ten in a row? Maybe not the best idea. Just a thought! Maybe I should ask Mildred about her strategy. She’s got this down to a science, or so it seems.

#Creditcards #Debtrisk #Finance