Credit cards are an increasingly popular way to make purchases and receive financial services. Not only are they far more convenient than carrying cash or checks for purchases, but credit cards can also be a useful tool for building or rebuilding your credit score.

A credit card is a plastic or metal card issued by either a store, bank or other financial institution, allowing you to buy items or services and pay for them over time with no cash. Credit cards typically charge interest on the money you borrow.

When you use a credit card, you don't pay immediately for the purchase. Instead, you can use the card and make small payments that are due as part of your minimum payment, balance transfer or cash advances. Paying off the balance in full each month helps you manage your finances and can help you build or rebuild a credit history.

Secured credit cards, also known as credit-building cards, are a popular way to build or rebuild credit scores, especially for those with little or no credit history. When you apply for a secured credit card, the issuer will place a security deposit, usually equivalent to your credit limit, in an account, and then you will use your card to make purchases and pay down the balance over time. This can help you become eligible for lower interest rates, higher credit limits and other credit products in the future.

There are also debit cards, which are similar to credit cards, except that the money spent is drawn directly from your checking or savings account. These cards are often used as another form of payment, though they do not help you build or rebuild your credit score the way credit cards do.

When it comes to managing your finances and improving your credit score, credit cards can be a valuable tool. As long as you use your cards responsibly and make all your payments on time, they can be a great way to manage your money and build a strong credit history.