How to Manage a Credit Card Online

You can eliminate the need to write checks and mail in payments--which can result in delays and trigger late fees and charges--by managing your credit card accounts online. Many credit card companies also offer customers the ability to set up automatic bill payments each month, so that you can manage your finances with a few simple points and clicks of your mouse.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Go to the website of the financial institution that issued your credit card and sign up for online account management. In some cases, you may have to contact the financial institution by telephone first to verify your identity and set up your online account. You'll find the direct number to the customer service center on the back of your credit card.

2. Use online services to activate new credit card accounts. This is a useful way to save time you'd probably otherwise spend waiting in a telephone queue for a customer service representative to assist you. Account activation is instantaneous, and you'll be able to start using your new card right away.

3. Manage your credit card spending with electronic statements. In most cases, you'll automatically begin to receive e-statements in your email inbox when you sign up for online account access. From your e-statement, you can link directly to services that will enable you to make online payments using your checking account, savings account, check card or debit card.

4. Take advantage of automatic bill payment features to make sure you never miss another bill payment again. Utility bills and services such as phone, Internet and TV cable can all be set up to come off your credit card on a specified date each month. You'll simply need to enter your account information with each service provider you want to pay automatically in the online credit card management center.

5. Manage your credit card account by requesting that special priority email alerts be sent to you. These alerts will instantly notify you of important changes to your account and will let you know at once if any unusual activity has taken place.

Tips & Warnings

• Never access your credit card account online from a public or shared computer.
• Choose a password to your online account that is secure and not easily guessed.
• Whenever you complete a credit card transaction, account payment or bill payment online, erase your web browser's history and memory cache. This is effective protection against the possibility of having your personal information intercepted by a third party.