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Credit Card Reduction Day – March 21, 2024

Credit Card Reduction Day takes place on March 21 each year. It is a day made for those with outstanding credit card debts wanting to get rid of their interest payments quickly. This day reminds us that credit cards need to be spent wisely, no matter how unlimited the spending limit may seem. Unlike debit card transactions that reflect the payment and deduction from your account automatically, a credit card transaction shows no such reflection on your bank balance. It often makes individuals lose track of their expenditures. Thus, Credit Card Reduction Day can help us be more vigilant about our credit card usage.

History of Credit Card Reduction Day

In the 1920s, credit cards originated in the United States when oil companies and some hotels started to give them to customers for purchases at their outlets. In 1950, the first universal credit card was introduced by the Diners’ Club and was used at various places. A version of this card was also introduced by the American Express Company in 1958. The American Express credit card would be used for travel and entertainment purposes. The credit card companies started charging the cardholders an annual fee and billing them monthly.

After this, the bank credit card system took over. Instead of individual companies, an individual could get a credit card from their bank, and credit card monthly payments would be direct to the bank. In 1958, Bank of America started issuing its credit card called BankAmericard in California. These were national bank-affiliated credit cards, and this initiative was carried over to other states and later renamed Visa in 1976. Many local banks that had begun issuing credit cards affiliated with major national bank plans offered a wide range of services such as meals, lodging, and even store purchases. Due to this statewide recognition of the credit cards, personal credit was in different locations.

The use of credit cards showed an exponential increase, and many cardholders were splurging beyond their income. Some were not able to meet the monthly payment requirements on outstanding balances due to high interests to pay off, and the inability to pay them caused them to get penalty fees and eventually fell into default.

Credit Card Reduction Day timeline

1920
The Issuing of Credit Cards Begins

In the U.S., oil companies and hotel chains give credit cards to customers at their outlets.

1950
The First Universal Credit Card

Diners’ Club issues the credit card.

1958
A National Bank-Affiliated Credit Card

Bank of America issues BankAmericard in California, later renamed VISA.

2000s
An Increase in Credit Card Use

The use of credit cards increases as cardholders start splurging beyond their income.

Credit Card Reduction Day FAQs

How can I reduce my credit card debt fast?

The only way to reduce your credit card debt quickly is to pay off as much as you can afford every month. If you can pay it off all at once, then even better.

Can we pay off credit card dues every day?

Usually, credit cards generate a monthly balance due at the end of the month. It is better to pay off the dues as and when it is generated since it accrues less interest.

Does your credit score go up if you pay off a credit card?

As long as your other credit cards have their dues paid off as well, reducing your credit card debt does boost your credit score. It might take a few months for it to reflect on your account.

How to Observe Credit Card Reduction Day

  1. Budget

    Plan a budget. This way, you can spend wisely and save some of your income.

  2. Start paying off debts

    Pay off a little more than usual every month. With proper planning, you’ll be debt-free.

  3. Spread awareness

    Use this day to spread awareness about how important it is to keep track of our credit card use. Make sure people around you are more vigilant about their monthly bills.

5 Interesting Facts About Credit Cards

  1. Too many cards aren’t necessarily good

    More credit cards may not increase your credit score.

  2. Your interest can change

    Card issuers can raise the interest rates as they see fit.

  3. A high credit limit is beneficial

    Having a high credit card limit can help your credit score.

  4. The magnetic stripe was invented by I.B.M.

    It was done by engineer Forrest Parry in the 1960s.

  5. The Credit CARD Act of 2009

    The Credit CARD Act of 2009 added protections for credit card customers.

Why Credit Card Reduction Day is Important

  1. To reevaluate our purchases

    This day helps us spend just a little more wisely. It’s an opportunity to think about what we are buying.

  2. To pay off our debts

    It’s important to start paying off our outstanding debts. This day helps us to plan how to pay off these credit cards.

  3. It helps with financial planning

    Credit Card Reduction Day makes us think about staying within our income earnings. It places emphasis on budgeting and saving.

Credit Card Reduction Day dates

YearDateDay
2024March 21Thursday
2025March 21Friday
2026March 21Saturday
2027March 21Sunday
2028March 21Tuesday

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