A charge card requires you to pay the full balance every statement cycle. A credit card lets you carry a balance — at interest.

There’s no universal right number. The optimal number of credit cards depends on your credit score goals, spending habits, and ability to manage payments without missing one.

A balance transfer moves debt from a high-interest card to a new card with a 0% introductory APR — pausing interest for a set period so more of every payment goes toward the principal.