Here are some tips to help you manage credit card debt while you get your finances under control.

1. 

   If you’re finding it hard to pay essential bills or make minimum repayments on your credit card, stop using it.

2. 

   Avoid paying interest on your purchases by paying off the full balance on your card by the due date on your statement. If you’re unable to do this, then make sure you make at least the minimum monthly repayment. The more you pay, the faster you can reduce your debt and the less interest you’ll pay.

   If you’re having trouble making the minimum repayments, talk to the credit card company and ask if you can organise a repayment plan. There may also be an option to transfer your balance to a lower rate credit card while you're doing this.

3. 

   If you’re struggling to make repayments on your credit cards, think very carefully before accepting any offers to increase your credit limit. Will more debt really solve the problem?

   Think about decreasing your credit limit if you have more credit than you really need (or can afford). This can reduce the risk of unnecessary spending and help keep your card debt under control.

4. 

   If possible, avoid using your credit card to withdraw cash. Most banks charge a fee for each cash advance in addition to any higher interest rate that cash advances might incur. In addition, the interest free period for most credit cards may not apply to a cash advance.

5. 

   Only put items "on the plastic" if you know you can pay off your balance within a realistic time frame. Be aware that most credit cards charge additional fees and higher interest for late repayments.

6. 

   Most banks charge an annual fee for their credit cards, so it's worth limiting the number of cards you have. Fewer cards mean fewer annual fees and fewer interest rates to keep track of.

7. 

   Many people have multiple debts such as credit cards, hire purchase and car and home loans. If this is the case, you may be paying more interest than you need to, so consider consolidating your debts. Credit cards are not a cost-effective way of funding long-term borrowing.