Cardholders are required to pay a minimum sum each month, usually equivalent to a percentage of the total outstanding balance on the card. Whenever possible, pay your bill in full every month. Otherwise, your balance will be carried forward to the following month and the total sum unpaid will be subject to an interest rate determined by the bank. If you do not pay the minimum sum by the due date, additional late fees will be charged to your account.

	When your application for a credit card is approved, the credit card issuer sets a credit limit, which is the maximum balance you can draw from your account. Each credit card issuer has its own parameters for setting credit limits. Some factors which may affect their decision include: Your monthly income Current debt (other credit cards, loans) Length of residence at your current address Home ownership Number of times you have applied for credit How much credit you need or use Should you require a larger credit line, you may write to your bank to request for one. Such approvals usually depend on your current financial standing, subject to a regulatory cap. You may qualify for a higher credit limit if you always pay on time or if your income has increased. Your bank may also grant you a temporary line increase, usually in times of emergency or for a specific one-off use such as to pay for a wedding.