Ah, the credit card: just swipe a plastic card through the checkout and those new shoes are paid for you! Well, not exactly. You still have to pay, just in smaller amounts over time versus everything up front at the cash register. Credit cards build up your credit score for significant purchases later on, like renting an apartment or buying a car, and they’re great for emergencies or unexpected expenses, such as a new laptop, flight home, or emergency room visit. But there are also cons and restrictions to remember when you use a credit card: hefty late fees, credit limits, high interest rates that can skyrocket your balance if you aren’t careful, and that temptation to spend money you technically don’t have—which can be a real problem if you’re unable to pay a bill regularly or on time. Don’t let that scare you, though. Managing one or two credit cards can teach you how to pay off a balance, build your credit score, and pay attention to your financial habits. One way to stay accountable? Put less on plastic than into your savings account.