Owning a credit card is like owning a double-edged sword that fits inside your pocket. Use it responsibly and you’ll be able to finance big-ticket purchases and unexpected expenses. But use it irresponsibly and you’ll end up slashing your finances before you know it.

Don’t let your debt snowball into an amount you’ll soon regret. Take these precautionary steps if you end up maxing out your credit card. Because after all, it shouldn’t be a death sentence to your finances.

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