While credit cards are a boon for a majority of the population, using this financial tool recklessly can land you in a debt spiral. Your budget plan will go awry and your future income might be spent clearing the dues. A credit card can be handled well when you know where and how to use it. So, here are some pro tips for cutting down credit card debt easily.

Avoid paying only the minimum payment
One common mistake that people with high credit card debts make is that they pay only the bare minimum and carry forward the remaining debt to the next month. Remember that when you do this, the interest accumulated increases exponentially. Always pay the full amount or the maximum that you can.

Pay your bills on time
This is one of the most basic pro tips for cutting credit card debt. For many people, the simple act of setting a reminder and paying bills on time will prevent the accumulation of interest rate and late payment charges.

Use the avalanche payment method
Imagine that you have three different credit cards and you get payment reminders for all of them. In the avalanche method, you choose to pay the card with the highest interest rate first, then tackle the ones with lesser interest. This is a logical way to prevent interest rate accumulation.

Review your spending habits
Using your credit card is like spending money that you don’t have. One of the most important pro tips for cutting credit card debt is to review your spending habits. When you have money in your checking account, consider using that instead of swiping your credit card. This will keep your credit card bills low. Think of money saving techniques like zero-cost EMIs and make use of coupon codes and sale periods.

Plan a budget
Create a budget with necessary, essential, and luxury expenditures and decide a cut-off for your credit card usage every month. Make it a point to not cross that limit.

Consider balance transfer cards
Balance transfer cards are types of credit cards that offer zero percent interest rates when you transfer an existing balance from one card to another. Getting one can help you save money on interest rates.

Talk to a credit counselor
It is equally important to speak with a credit counselor. The counselor will give you expert advice and strategies on how to pay your credit card debt with minimal financial stress.

Piling credit card bills can put one under immense mental and financial stress. Use these pro tips for cutting credit card debt to remain debt-free. Additionally, make lifestyle changes—like conscious spending—to bring down your expenses.