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Financial Literacy Club

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Credit & Debt · Lesson 3

How Credit Cards Work

Part A. Guided notes

Fill in each blank using the word bank.

Word bank: already · balance · dates · immediate · statement

  1. Pay the full balance and you usually pay $0 in interest.
  2. Due are at least 21 days after the statement is sent.
  3. Utilization = ÷ limit. Keep it low.
  4. Cash advances cost a fee plus interest.
  5. Only charge what you have.

Part B. Check your understanding

Circle the best answer.

  1. Your statement balance is $180 and the minimum payment is $25. You pay $180 before the due date.

    1. How much interest do you pay on those purchases?

    • A. $0
    • B. About $3
    • C. $25
    • D. It depends on your credit score
  2. Your card has a $500 limit, and your statement balance is $400.

    2. What's your credit utilization?

    • A. 20%
    • B. 40%
    • C. 125%
    • D. 80%
  3. 3. A cash advance from a credit card gets the same interest-free grace period as a regular purchase.

    True/False

Part C. Apply it

Show your work.

  1. 1. Your statement balance is $420 and the minimum payment is $30. How much should you pay to owe no interest?

  2. 2. Your limit is $2,000 and your balance is $600. What's your utilization?

Part D. Think about it

Answer in complete sentences.

  1. 1. Card companies make money from interest and fees. How can a card be free for someone who pays in full?

  2. 2. What rules would you set for yourself with a first credit card?

Exit ticket

Name

What is a grace period?