Credit refers to a customer's ability to obtain goods or services before payment with the understanding to pay later. For example, you are utilizing credit when you purchase something using your credit card. Using credit wisely is one of the most effective ways to maintain a good credit score, which could have far-reaching effects on your ability to obtain loans with favourable interest rates, credit cards, and other financial services

The first step to using credit wisely is figuring out how much credit you can afford to take on. Take a long, hard look at your current and future financial situation before taking on any new debt. You can do this by determining your debt-to-income ratio, which looks at how much you owe each month compared to how much you earn.

Debt-to-income or debt-burden ratio

Your debt-to-income ratio usually gives a clear picture of your financial well-being. To calculate it, add up your fixed monthly debt payments, such as car loan or mortgage payments (you do not have to include expenses like utilities or groceries). Then divide the total by your monthly take-home pay.

Your ratio gives lenders a good indication of how much additional credit you will be able to handle. The Central Bank of the U.A.E has limited the debt-to-income ratio for unsecured consumer loans to 50%.

Creditors look at several key indicators when you apply for credit. You have considerable control over these factors based on how you manage your credit, so it's important to always keep them in mind.

The 3 Cs of good credit

Client History

How responsible you are about paying bills on time.

Capacity

Your ability to repay a loan based on your income and financial position.

Collateral

Security for the lender in case you don't pay back the loan. A house, for example, would be used to collateralize a mortgage.

Positively changing your "3 Cs" will help improve your credit standing. The first two Cs are extremely important in developing your credit rating.

Maintaining Good Credit

Once you have credit, you begin to build a credit history. Lenders use your credit history to gauge your ability to repay. So, a good or bad credit history can make a big difference in getting the loan, credit card or mortgage you need.

To maintain a good credit history, try practicing the following guidelines:

• Pay at least the minimum payment due-on time, every month.
• Don't overextend yourself. The fewer accounts you have open-whether they are loans or credit cards-the better.
• Don't spend income now that you hope to make later.
• Avoid transferring balances unless you're definitely getting a better interest rate.
• Notify creditors when you move so that bills arrive on time and your payments are never late. Even if you don't get your bill, you still owe the payment. If your due date is coming up and you haven't received a statement, visit the Online Banking website or call the Customer Service number located on your credit card or previous statement. Customer Service can tell you the minimum payment due and where to send the check.

A strong credit score, apart from establishing you as a responsible borrower, may open up opportunities to obtain increased credit limits and potentially lower interest rates. You can also enjoy a higher purchasing power by being eligible for prequalified/preapproved loans. To maintain a favorable credit score, make sure to follow good practices like using your credit wisely, maintaining a good debt-to-income ratio, and repaying at least the minimum payment due on time.