Understand due dates and report dates
The **due date** is when you must pay at least the minimum amount to avoid late fees and keep a positive payment history. The **reporting date** (or statement closing date) is when your credit card issuer reports your balance to credit bureaus, affecting your credit utilization and score. To manage credit well: - Pay before the **due date** to avoid penalties. - Pay down your balance before the **reporting date** for lower utilization. Reporting date is usually 3 days after due date slay the day fam