Im living off my husband’s credit cards (and Dad’s). I used to have three credit cards until I decided (forcefully) to get them cut. I now only have one, my oldest card (with the highest credit limit) but I havent used it in a year. We are working on finishing off Edil’s card debts first (and I pay off a purchase I made using my Dad’s card).
Credit Card Applications are actually rising. Edil has two cards, which are perfect for us because their rewards programs coincides with our favorite mall (SM, of course). The other one he uses for gas charges as it offers 3% rebate forever. We also get a lot of perks. He has been hounded by two other offers for cards and he was sorely tempted to get one but I managed to convince him to just let them go and just build credit reputation with his current two.
Im no expert in financial handling, but here are some lessons Ive learned (the hard way) on handling credit cards:
1. Treat the card is it is – debt. Don’t card everything you do not need.
2. Make sure you pay more than the minimum due.
3. Take advantage of 0% installment plans.
4. Manage everything in ONE card. You don’t need more than one. Decide which one works for you the best and build credit on that. I have had five credit limit increases on my oldest card.
5. Use it when you have money to pay off 
