If it always seems like your credit cards have the upper hand, it’s time to take a closer look at making your credit work for you. By taking a few moments out of your day, you can save yourself a bundle of money while also making your life a lot easier.

6. Set Up Automated Payments: the thought of your credit card company dipping into your bank account each month may send shivers up your spine, but this is a wise move. When you set up automated payments, you’ll never miss a payment again. You can arrange monthly payments by contacting your credit card company or by finding an automatic repayment link on a company’s website.

5. Review Your Rewards: is your wallet stuffed with rewards cards? It might be time to pay attention to those cards that work in your favor, and those cards that are just taking up space. You shouldn’t have to pay fees, earn an unattainable number of miles, or sign your life away on a dotted line in order to use a rewards card. If you have an air miles rewards card that you’ve never been able to use, consider replacing it with a money back card – if your rewards card isn’t working, look for one that will.

4. Pay Attention to Your Credit Report: if you have bad credit, you probably avoid your credit report at all costs. However, taking the time to check your credit report regularly (at least three times per year) will prevent a bad report from turning into a nightmare – companies make lots of mistakes on credit reports, make sure that your report is accurate and up to date.

3. Use Your Rewards: are your rewards just gathering virtual dust? Most rewards expire at some point, so it’s best to use up your rewards quickly. Gather all of your rewards cards, and find out which ones you need to use right away.

2. Know Your Interest Rates: when was the last time that you really looked at your interest rates? Do you know what your rates are? Spend some time talking with a customer representative in order to find a better credit card rate or find out how you can get a better rate – chances are that all you have to do is ask.

1. Forget Fees: if you have a good credit record, you may be able to get rid of credit card fees. Many companies will gladly negotiate with you regarding unwanted fees. Make the first step by calling your credit card companies, and asking what you can do about those fees.

Speaking with a credit card company representative can be intimidating. Yet, taking your credit into your own hands is the only way to ensure that your credit will work for you. Having cards that don’t work in your favor won’t benefit your finances in any way. Don’t be a slave to your credit – master your credit instead.