Credit cards can be a useful, yet dangerous tool for anyone, especially students. People often fall into the credit card trap, where they are spending more money than they're earning and falling behind as a result. But the real question is, do students actually need a credit card? There is no definitive right or wrong answer, since every individual situation can be different.

It is always important to build your credit, regardless of your situation as a student. You can build your credit safely, without falling behind if you do it properly. Students can use a credit card for small purchases that they would normally use a debit card or cash for, in order to build up their credit. Building up their credit is important if they want to get a loan in the future.

When using the credit cards, try to only purchase what you can actually afford. The credit limit is a maximum spending limit - do not try to reach that amount. Keep your balance at zero or at a minimum amount to keep your credit score high. Pay your credit card off on time and only buy what you can afford. If you fall into the credit card trap, there will be a long difficult road ahead of you.

However, sometimes certain situations come up where you might have to go into a bit of debt to get by the tough times. The critical point here is that you pay off the debt quickly and completely.

Students do have some added security. The Credit CARD Act put into place restrictions on adults under age 21. It is harder to qualify for a credit card account, and often times a cosigner is required to guarantee the account.

If you have found yourself in credit card debt, be sure to review the credit card help [http://debtorsunite.com/Articles/Credit-Cards.aspx] articles.

You can also speak with a credit counselor [http://debtorsunite.com/My-Debts.aspx] to review your situation.