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A growing number of Americans are using credit cards to cover basic living expenses. Credit cards can feel like a convenient way to get what we need. However, they can also do more harm than good.

As a form of revolving debt, credit cards are a big factor in calculating a credit score. Financial institutions use a credit score to gauge someone’s ability to pay back debts—in other words, predict how trustworthy of a borrower someone might be.

Credit score plays a big factor in securing financing like home or auto loans. Therefore, it makes sense to keep your credit under control. Here are a few habits to cultivate—and avoid—regarding credit cards.

Sensible Credit Card Habits

Spend strategically and responsibly. Above all, the battle for securing a good credit score begins with a proactive mindset. Some cardholders will only charge for things they know they can afford. Others will reserve parts of their budgets specifically for credit spending. Either way, these attitudes reinforce the point that credit is more a tool and less a toy.

Of course, you may need to use a credit card to cover an emergency expense—and that’s okay! Remember: only charge where you need and try to pay off as much of the balance as possible before the due date.

Pay beyond the minimum. One of the biggest traps in credit cards is interest, the money that gets charged on top of the outstanding balance every month. Interest adds up quickly if one never tries paying off the balance. At worst, it results in debt never paid because all the money goes to interest instead.

Always pay over the minimum so that you are paying down the balance. Remember that this advice compounds with spending strategically: pick what and how often you charge, and keep that amount low.

Pick your perks. Everyone loves getting rewarded. Credit card companies exploit this facet of human psychology by adding rewards programs to their products. Things like cashback and access to cardholder online stores might be tempting, but these incentives can lead to overcharging if you aren’t careful.

Instead, let perks programs work for you by choosing cards that complement your lifestyle. That way, you’ll get a little extra by simply using the card typically. If you travel a lot, consider a card with bonuses on hotel stays or flights. Some cards give more points on everyday purchases like groceries and gas.

Credit Card Habits to Avoid

Missing payment dates. Skipping a credit card payment can harm you in many ways. First, it makes more interest accrue and exacerbates your debt. Second, it damages your credit score. Set a monthly reminder always to pay your bill on time. If possible, opt in to automatic payment so you never miss a deadline.

Relying too much on the available balance. Credit utilization ratio is the percentage of total credit compared to how much is used. Avoid exceeding more than 30% of your available credit per month. Minimizing credit card use boosts your score and gives you breathing room to pay down debt.

Closing old card accounts. This might sound counterintuitive, but closing old accounts lowers your score. Reporting agencies factor in the “age” of open accounts. While you might think closing underutilized credit cards will consolidate your finances, it could do more harm than good.

Managing your credit card can be a natural part of your everyday finances. It all starts with spending sensibly and paying things back on time. Consider speaking with a representative at your financial institution for more pointers on keeping your credit in line.