If any of these apply to you, a storm may be fast approaching on your horizon:
 You don't know how much you owe until the bills arrive. You often pay your bills late.
You are often unable to make a minimum credit card payment.
You frequently pay bills in 60 to 90 days that you used to pay in 30.
You frequently exceed or approach your credit limit.
You use your checking account credit lines or cash advances to pay bills.
Below are some ways to help regain control of your finances:
A rule of thumb - with the exception of rent/mortgage, total borrowing (which includes credit cards) should not exceed 20 percent of your net income. For example, if your net income is $800 a month, you should not spend more than $160/month on your credit card.
Always pay bills on time and make at least the minimum payment.
Set aside a portion of your available credit for emergencies like car repairs or unplanned medical costs.
Make note of your spending priorities to identify patterns and thus create a budget, making adjustments when necessary to tighten expenditures wherever possible.
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