{"content_id":"prfkhwuhi2","slug":"credit-score-debit-credit-card-usage-guide","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"comparison","category_name":"Comparison","title":"Credit Score Guidelines for Debit and Credit Card Use","summary":"Regular debit card use and a sound credit card repayment history can help your credit assessment. When choosing a card, consider your ability to repay and your card use history rather than treating past bonus-point guidance as a guaranteed credit score increase today.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["Debit card use is also factored into personal credit assessments.","The basis of managing a credit card is to regularly use only what you can afford to repay and pay it off on the due date.","Using at least 300,000 won per month and a 4 to 40 point boost are figures from past guidance, not universal conditions for a credit score increase today.","Using 30% to 50% of your credit limit has not been confirmed as a common bonus-point criterion across all credit bureaus.","Small-credit payments made with a debit card have a different repayment method from regular debit card payments."],"content_markdown":"To manage your credit score, use your cards regularly within an amount you can repay. Debit card usage is also reflected in credit assessments. Credit cards can help you build a repayment history without late payments. Using both cards does not, by itself, raise your score.\n\nThe bonus-point figures are based on past guidance from the Financial Supervisory Service. Check KCB and NICE disclosures for current conditions. (Verified information from past Financial Supervisory Service guidance: using a debit card without late payments for at least 300,000 won a month for 6 months, or using it consistently for 6~12 months, could earn 4~40 bonus points · source: citigold.co.kr · checked 2026-10-13)\n\n## Comparing Debit Cards and Credit Cards\n\nBoth cards are used in credit assessments, but they differ in how payments are made. Debit card payments generally come from the balance in a linked account. With a credit card, you spend within the limit set by the card issuer and repay the amount later. Choose based on how much money you can have available by the payment due date.\n\n| Comparison | Debit card | Credit card |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Typical payment method | Payment amount is withdrawn from a linked account | Amount spent is repaid on a set payment due date |\n| Spending limit | Account balance and card spending limit | Credit limit set by the card issuer |\n| Information used in credit assessments | Consistent usage history | Usage and repayment history, among other information |\n| What to manage | Whether postpaid transit or small-credit payments are enabled | Upcoming payment amount and outstanding balance |\n| How to choose | Whether it is convenient to spend within your account balance | Whether you can pay the billed amount on the due date |\n\nNICE explains that debit card usage is also reflected in credit assessments. Responsible credit card use can also be assessed positively. See [NICE's key assessment factors](https://www.credit.co.kr/ib20/mnu/BZWCACCCS11) for details.\n\n## How Much Will My Score Rise If I Spend 300,000 Won a Month on a Debit Card?\n\nSpending 300,000 won a month alone is not enough to calculate how much your current credit score will rise. The often-cited 4~40 points comes from past bonus-point guidance issued by the Financial Supervisory Service. That guidance also lists conditions that could make someone ineligible for bonus points.\n\n| Item in past guidance | Explanation at the time | What to keep in mind now |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Spending amount and duration | At least 300,000 won a month for at least 6 months | Cannot be assumed to be a current common requirement across all credit bureaus |\n| Consistent use | Consistent use for 6~12 months | Does not mean your score will rise just because you meet the duration requirement |\n| Bonus-point range | 4~40 points | Does not guarantee that an individual's final score will rise by that amount |\n| People who may be subject to restrictions | People with late payments or a history of late payments, multiple debts, or cash advance use, among others | Bonus points may be unavailable or limited depending on individual circumstances |\n\nThe Financial Supervisory Service's “Tips for Improving My Credit Rating (3): How to Earn Bonus Points in Personal Credit Assessments” states:\n\n\u003e You do not need to submit your usage history separately.\n\nThis refers to debit card usage information received from financial institutions. Check with the credit bureau you use for its current, detailed conditions. The past document is available in the [Financial Supervisory Service guidance posted by Citibank Korea](https://www.citigold.co.kr/download/cms/ir/CONSUMER_INFO/cs_consumer_credit_up_171031.pdf).\n\nSpending more on a debit card does not raise your score by a corresponding amount. KCB identifies consistent debit card use as a positive assessment factor. Your final score also reflects other information, including outstanding loans and late payments.\n\n## Should I Use 30~50% of My Credit Card Limit?\n\nThe disclosures reviewed do not present 30~50% of the limit as a common bonus-point criterion. Credit limit utilization means how much you have spent relative to your limit. KCB identifies an increase in the amount used relative to the limit as a negative factor. That does not mean keeping utilization below a particular percentage guarantees a higher score.\n\nThe formula for understanding credit limit utilization is:\n\n`한도 사용률(%) = 이용금액 ÷ 이용한도 × 100`\n\nThis formula cannot calculate how much your credit score will change. Check how each service calculates the amount it displays as used. See the [KCB guide to credit card limit use](https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc5899892294) for more information.\n\n- Lowering your limit does not reduce the amount you have already spent.\n- If the amount spent stays the same, a lower limit means higher utilization.\n- Raising your limit does not increase the amount you can actually repay.\n- Do not increase unnecessary spending to meet a target percentage.\n\nIf you want a higher limit, check the card issuer's app to see whether you can request a review. Ask the card issuer what documents you need, such as proof of income. You do not need to raise your limit to the maximum just to manage your score.\n\n## How to Choose a Card for Your Situation\n\nWhich card to choose depends on whether you can have the money available by the payment due date. The table below gives guidelines based on how each card is paid. It does not predict the effect of any particular combination on your score.\n\n| Current situation | How to choose | What else to check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| You want to spend within your account balance | Consider mainly using a debit card | Whether you have signed up for postpaid payment features |\n| You can reliably pay your credit card bill | Use the card consistently for necessary spending | Upcoming payment amount and balance in the account used for automatic payments |\n| You spend close to your credit card limit | Review total spending and unpaid amounts | Changes in the amount used relative to your limit |\n| You are short of money on each payment due date | Prioritize reducing additional spending and making a repayment plan | Whether you use card loans or revolving payments |\n| You already use both cards | Divide spending between them within your total budget | Each card's billing date and overlapping expenses |\n\nUsing both cards is one way to manage your spending. KCB's recommended card usage ratio may also differ from actual changes in your score. This limitation is stated in [KCB's credit improvement guidance](https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc2678088355).\n\n## Common Mistakes When Closing an Old Card\n\nClosing an old card does not immediately erase all its transaction history. KCB explains that it continues to use the information for a period after closure. You therefore do not need to keep every card just because it is old.\n\n| Common assumption | What to check |\n| --- | --- |\n| Closing a card immediately deletes all past usage history | Credit transaction information may still be used for a period after closure |\n| Old cards must be kept | Consider the annual fee and whether you actually need the card |\n| Each additional card raises your credit score | The number of cards you hold and your usage and repayment history are different pieces of information |\n| Closing a card eliminates its remaining balance | Unpaid bills and installment balances must still be repaid after closure |\n\nA long history of transactions in good standing is a positive assessment factor. However, the effect of closing an individual card cannot be calculated in the same way for everyone. See the [KCB Q\u0026A on holding and closing cards](https://www.allcredit.co.kr/contents/qna/120645) for more information.\n\n## How Are Installments, Cash Advances, and Card Loans Different?\n\nCard purchases and card loans are not the same type of transaction. NICE explains that habitually making excessive installment purchases may be assessed negatively. It also identifies frequent cash advances as a negative factor.\n\n| Type | Meaning | What to manage |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Single payment | Pay the purchase amount on the set payment due date | Check whether you can pay the billed amount |\n| Installments | Pay the purchase amount over several payments | Check the remaining installment balance |\n| Short-term card loan or cash advance | A short-term loan within your card limit | Review repeated use and the repayment burden |\n| Long-term card loan | A loan provided by the card issuer | Check the interest rate, repayment period, and outstanding loan balance |\n| Partial payment carryover agreement or revolving payment | Carry part of a payment over to the next due date | Check the carried-over balance and fees |\n\nWith revolving payments, the amount you do not repay carries over to the next month. Fees under the agreement apply to the carried-over amount. See the [KB Kookmin Card disclosure guide](https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MKAM0841) for the terms and payment structure.\n\n## Debit Card Small-Credit Payments Are Handled Differently for Billing and Deductions\n\nIf a debit card transaction is approved through a small-credit feature, you must repay it later. Treating it like a regular debit card payment could cause you to miss a bill. Check the separate withdrawal date for postpaid transit charges, too.\n\nKB Kookmin Card's guidance states that amounts approved through the small-credit feature are billed separately. If payment is late, the same late-payment interest rate as for a credit card applies. Amounts approved on credit through this service are also treated as credit card spending for income tax deduction purposes.\n\n| What to check | Where to check |\n| --- | --- |\n| Whether the transaction was a regular debit payment or a small-credit approval | Approval notification and transaction details |\n| Whether there is an amount to pay later | Card statement |\n| The actual withdrawal date | Card issuer's payment information |\n| How the transaction was classified for income tax deductions | Certificate of credit card and other spending |\n\nDo not judge every transaction by the debit card label on the card. It is more accurate to check how the transaction was approved in your payment history. The source for this example is the [KB Kookmin Card small-credit payment service guide](https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MSCMCXHIASVC0011).\n\n## Income Tax Deductions and Credit Scores Follow Separate Rules\n\nA higher income tax deduction rate for debit cards does not mean they are better for your credit score. The National Tax Service identifies spending more than 25% of gross salary as a basic requirement for the deduction. Whether an expense qualifies for the deduction is determined separately.\n\n| Payment method for ordinary spending | Income tax deduction rate |\n| --- | --- |\n| Credit card | 15% |\n| Debit card | 30% |\n\nThese percentages are not refund rates that return the stated share of your spending. An income tax deduction reduces the income used to calculate tax. Separate deduction rates may apply to traditional markets and other spending. Check the conditions for each tax year in the [National Tax Service Q\u0026A on credit card and other spending](https://call.nts.go.kr/call/qna/selectQnaInfo.do?ctgId=CTG11898\u0026mi=1318).\n\n## If Your Score Stays the Same Despite Regular Card Use\n\nBefore increasing your card spending, check what information has been reflected in changes to your score. KCB and NICE each calculate scores using their own assessment systems. Their scores may move differently over the same period.\n\n1. Check the credit bureau's name and the information's as-of date on the score screen.\n2. Check whether your card usage or outstanding loan balance has changed.\n3. Check whether late payments or transactions that are not yours have been recorded.\n4. If you suspect an error, ask the relevant financial institution and credit bureau about correcting it.\n\nThe fact that you checked your credit score is not itself used in the assessment. KCB says it also uses nonfinancial payment information as a bonus-point factor. Check the credit bureau's service to see what information you can register. See [KCB's key assessment areas for personal credit scores](https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc0682112929).","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eTo manage your credit score, use your cards regularly within an amount you can repay. Debit card usage is also reflected in credit assessments. Credit cards can help you build a repayment history without late payments. Using both cards does not, by itself, raise your score.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bonus-point figures are based on past guidance from the Financial Supervisory Service. Check KCB and NICE disclosures for current conditions. (Verified information from past Financial Supervisory Service guidance: using a debit card without late payments for at least 300,000 won a month for 6 months, or using it consistently for 6~12 months, could earn 4~40 bonus points · source: citigold.co.kr · checked 2026-10-13)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-debit-cards-and-credit-cards\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-debit-cards-and-credit-cards\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing Debit Cards and Credit Cards\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth cards are used in credit assessments, but they differ in how payments are made. Debit card payments generally come from the balance in a linked account. With a credit card, you spend within the limit set by the card issuer and repay the amount later. Choose based on how much money you can have available by the payment due date.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eComparison\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDebit card\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCredit card\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Comparison\"\u003eTypical payment method\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Debit card\"\u003ePayment amount is withdrawn from a linked account\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Credit card\"\u003eAmount spent is repaid on a set payment due date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Comparison\"\u003eSpending limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Debit card\"\u003eAccount balance and card spending limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Credit card\"\u003eCredit limit set by the card issuer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Comparison\"\u003eInformation used in credit assessments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Debit card\"\u003eConsistent usage history\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Credit card\"\u003eUsage and repayment history, among other information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Comparison\"\u003eWhat to manage\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Debit card\"\u003eWhether postpaid transit or small-credit payments are enabled\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Credit card\"\u003eUpcoming payment amount and outstanding balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Comparison\"\u003eHow to choose\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Debit card\"\u003eWhether it is convenient to spend within your account balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Credit card\"\u003eWhether you can pay the billed amount on the due date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNICE explains that debit card usage is also reflected in credit assessments. Responsible credit card use can also be assessed positively. See \u003ca href=\"https://www.credit.co.kr/ib20/mnu/BZWCACCCS11\"\u003eNICE's key assessment factors\u003c/a\u003e for details.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-much-will-my-score-rise-if-i-spend-300000-won-a-month-on-a-debit-card\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-much-will-my-score-rise-if-i-spend-300000-won-a-month-on-a-debit-card\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow Much Will My Score Rise If I Spend 300,000 Won a Month on a Debit Card?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpending 300,000 won a month alone is not enough to calculate how much your current credit score will rise. The often-cited 4~40 points comes from past bonus-point guidance issued by the Financial Supervisory Service. That guidance also lists conditions that could make someone ineligible for bonus points.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem in past guidance\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExplanation at the time\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to keep in mind now\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item in past guidance\"\u003eSpending amount and duration\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Explanation at the time\"\u003eAt least 300,000 won a month for at least 6 months\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to keep in mind now\"\u003eCannot be assumed to be a current common requirement across all credit bureaus\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item in past guidance\"\u003eConsistent use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Explanation at the time\"\u003eConsistent use for 6~12 months\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to keep in mind now\"\u003eDoes not mean your score will rise just because you meet the duration requirement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item in past guidance\"\u003eBonus-point range\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Explanation at the time\"\u003e4~40 points\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to keep in mind now\"\u003eDoes not guarantee that an individual's final score will rise by that amount\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item in past guidance\"\u003ePeople who may be subject to restrictions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Explanation at the time\"\u003ePeople with late payments or a history of late payments, multiple debts, or cash advance use, among others\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to keep in mind now\"\u003eBonus points may be unavailable or limited depending on individual circumstances\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Financial Supervisory Service's “Tips for Improving My Credit Rating (3): How to Earn Bonus Points in Personal Credit Assessments” states:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou do not need to submit your usage history separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis refers to debit card usage information received from financial institutions. Check with the credit bureau you use for its current, detailed conditions. The past document is available in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.citigold.co.kr/download/cms/ir/CONSUMER_INFO/cs_consumer_credit_up_171031.pdf\"\u003eFinancial Supervisory Service guidance posted by Citibank Korea\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpending more on a debit card does not raise your score by a corresponding amount. KCB identifies consistent debit card use as a positive assessment factor. Your final score also reflects other information, including outstanding loans and late payments.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#should-i-use-3050-of-my-credit-card-limit\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"should-i-use-3050-of-my-credit-card-limit\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eShould I Use 30~50% of My Credit Card Limit?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe disclosures reviewed do not present 30~50% of the limit as a common bonus-point criterion. Credit limit utilization means how much you have spent relative to your limit. KCB identifies an increase in the amount used relative to the limit as a negative factor. That does not mean keeping utilization below a particular percentage guarantees a higher score.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe formula for understanding credit limit utilization is:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ccode\u003e한도 사용률(%) = 이용금액 ÷ 이용한도 × 100\u003c/code\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis formula cannot calculate how much your credit score will change. Check how each service calculates the amount it displays as used. See the \u003ca href=\"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc5899892294\"\u003eKCB guide to credit card limit use\u003c/a\u003e for more information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLowering your limit does not reduce the amount you have already spent.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the amount spent stays the same, a lower limit means higher utilization.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRaising your limit does not increase the amount you can actually repay.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not increase unnecessary spending to meet a target percentage.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want a higher limit, check the card issuer's app to see whether you can request a review. Ask the card issuer what documents you need, such as proof of income. You do not need to raise your limit to the maximum just to manage your score.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-to-choose-a-card-for-your-situation\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-choose-a-card-for-your-situation\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Choose a Card for Your Situation\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhich card to choose depends on whether you can have the money available by the payment due date. The table below gives guidelines based on how each card is paid. It does not predict the effect of any particular combination on your score.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCurrent situation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHow to choose\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat else to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou want to spend within your account balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to choose\"\u003eConsider mainly using a debit card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eWhether you have signed up for postpaid payment features\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou can reliably pay your credit card bill\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to choose\"\u003eUse the card consistently for necessary spending\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eUpcoming payment amount and balance in the account used for automatic payments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou spend close to your credit card limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to choose\"\u003eReview total spending and unpaid amounts\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eChanges in the amount used relative to your limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou are short of money on each payment due date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to choose\"\u003ePrioritize reducing additional spending and making a repayment plan\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eWhether you use card loans or revolving payments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou already use both cards\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to choose\"\u003eDivide spending between them within your total budget\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eEach card's billing date and overlapping expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing both cards is one way to manage your spending. KCB's recommended card usage ratio may also differ from actual changes in your score. This limitation is stated in \u003ca href=\"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc2678088355\"\u003eKCB's credit improvement guidance\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-when-closing-an-old-card\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-when-closing-an-old-card\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Mistakes When Closing an Old Card\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClosing an old card does not immediately erase all its transaction history. KCB explains that it continues to use the information for a period after closure. You therefore do not need to keep every card just because it is old.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCommon assumption\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eClosing a card immediately deletes all past usage history\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eCredit transaction information may still be used for a period after closure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eOld cards must be kept\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eConsider the annual fee and whether you actually need the card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eEach additional card raises your credit score\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe number of cards you hold and your usage and repayment history are different pieces of information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eClosing a card eliminates its remaining balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eUnpaid bills and installment balances must still be repaid after closure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA long history of transactions in good standing is a positive assessment factor. However, the effect of closing an individual card cannot be calculated in the same way for everyone. See the \u003ca href=\"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/contents/qna/120645\"\u003eKCB Q\u0026amp;A on holding and closing cards\u003c/a\u003e for more information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-are-installments-cash-advances-and-card-loans-different\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-are-installments-cash-advances-and-card-loans-different\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow Are Installments, Cash Advances, and Card Loans Different?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCard purchases and card loans are not the same type of transaction. NICE explains that habitually making excessive installment purchases may be assessed negatively. It also identifies frequent cash advances as a negative factor.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eType\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to manage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type\"\u003eSingle payment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003ePay the purchase amount on the set payment due date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to manage\"\u003eCheck whether you can pay the billed amount\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type\"\u003eInstallments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003ePay the purchase amount over several payments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to manage\"\u003eCheck the remaining installment balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type\"\u003eShort-term card loan or cash advance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eA short-term loan within your card limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to manage\"\u003eReview repeated use and the repayment burden\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type\"\u003eLong-term card loan\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eA loan provided by the card issuer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to manage\"\u003eCheck the interest rate, repayment period, and outstanding loan balance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type\"\u003ePartial payment carryover agreement or revolving payment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eCarry part of a payment over to the next due date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to manage\"\u003eCheck the carried-over balance and fees\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith revolving payments, the amount you do not repay carries over to the next month. Fees under the agreement apply to the carried-over amount. See the \u003ca href=\"https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MKAM0841\"\u003eKB Kookmin Card disclosure guide\u003c/a\u003e for the terms and payment structure.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#debit-card-small-credit-payments-are-handled-differently-for-billing-and-deductions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"debit-card-small-credit-payments-are-handled-differently-for-billing-and-deductions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDebit Card Small-Credit Payments Are Handled Differently for Billing and Deductions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf a debit card transaction is approved through a small-credit feature, you must repay it later. Treating it like a regular debit card payment could cause you to miss a bill. Check the separate withdrawal date for postpaid transit charges, too.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKB Kookmin Card's guidance states that amounts approved through the small-credit feature are billed separately. If payment is late, the same late-payment interest rate as for a credit card applies. Amounts approved on credit through this service are also treated as credit card spending for income tax deduction purposes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhere to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether the transaction was a regular debit payment or a small-credit approval\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eApproval notification and transaction details\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether there is an amount to pay later\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eCard statement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe actual withdrawal date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eCard issuer's payment information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eHow the transaction was classified for income tax deductions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eCertificate of credit card and other spending\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not judge every transaction by the debit card label on the card. It is more accurate to check how the transaction was approved in your payment history. The source for this example is the \u003ca href=\"https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MSCMCXHIASVC0011\"\u003eKB Kookmin Card small-credit payment service guide\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#income-tax-deductions-and-credit-scores-follow-separate-rules\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"income-tax-deductions-and-credit-scores-follow-separate-rules\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIncome Tax Deductions and Credit Scores Follow Separate Rules\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA higher income tax deduction rate for debit cards does not mean they are better for your credit score. The National Tax Service identifies spending more than 25% of gross salary as a basic requirement for the deduction. Whether an expense qualifies for the deduction is determined separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePayment method for ordinary spending\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eIncome tax deduction rate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Payment method for ordinary spending\"\u003eCredit card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Income tax deduction rate\"\u003e15%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Payment method for ordinary spending\"\u003eDebit card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Income tax deduction rate\"\u003e30%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese percentages are not refund rates that return the stated share of your spending. An income tax deduction reduces the income used to calculate tax. Separate deduction rates may apply to traditional markets and other spending. Check the conditions for each tax year in the \u003ca href=\"https://call.nts.go.kr/call/qna/selectQnaInfo.do?ctgId=CTG11898\u0026amp;mi=1318\"\u003eNational Tax Service Q\u0026amp;A on credit card and other spending\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#if-your-score-stays-the-same-despite-regular-card-use\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"if-your-score-stays-the-same-despite-regular-card-use\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIf Your Score Stays the Same Despite Regular Card Use\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore increasing your card spending, check what information has been reflected in changes to your score. KCB and NICE each calculate scores using their own assessment systems. Their scores may move differently over the same period.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the credit bureau's name and the information's as-of date on the score screen.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether your card usage or outstanding loan balance has changed.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether late payments or transactions that are not yours have been recorded.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you suspect an error, ask the relevant financial institution and credit bureau about correcting it.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fact that you checked your credit score is not itself used in the assessment. KCB says it also uses nonfinancial payment information as a bonus-point factor. Check the credit bureau's service to see what information you can register. See \u003ca href=\"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc0682112929\"\u003eKCB's key assessment areas for personal credit scores\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Everyday Finance","Credit card","Credit score","Year-end tax settlement"],"faqs":[{"question":"Can using only a debit card help your credit score?","answer":"Consistent debit card use is also reflected in credit assessments. You do not need to get a new credit card just for your credit score. Your actual score is also affected by other information, including loans and overdue payments."},{"question":"Will spending 300,000 won a month on a debit card raise my score by 40 points?","answer":"You cannot assume this is a universal rule for score increases today. The figures of at least 300,000 won per month and up to 40 points come from past guidance on bonus points issued by the Financial Supervisory Service. Check the current criteria with the relevant credit bureau."},{"question":"Do I need to use at least 30% of my credit card limit?","answer":"The disclosures reviewed do not state a common requirement to use at least 30% of your limit. You do not need to spend more just to reach a certain percentage. Spend only what you can pay on your payment date."},{"question":"Will raising my credit card limit also raise my score?","answer":"A higher limit alone does not guarantee a higher score. If your spending stays the same, the percentage of your limit that you use goes down. Your ability to repay and other transaction information are also reflected in the assessment."},{"question":"If I close an old credit card, does its transaction history disappear immediately?","answer":"KCB says it continues to use transaction information for a certain period after a card is closed. It would be inaccurate to assume that all its history is deleted immediately. When deciding whether to keep it, also consider the annual fee and whether you actually need it."},{"question":"Can a debit card have overdue payments?","answer":"Using a postpaid transit or small credit feature means you will have an amount to pay later. In addition to regular debit card payments, check the billing date and the account the payment will be withdrawn from."},{"question":"Does the debit card income deduction rate also apply to payments made using a debit card's small credit feature?","answer":"You cannot assume they are treated the same as regular debit card payments. KB국민카드 says payments approved under the small credit feature count as credit card spending for income deduction purposes. Check how they are classified on the certificate from your card issuer."},{"question":"Does repaying a cash advance on time mean it will not affect my credit assessment?","answer":"Your pattern of use may be assessed regardless of whether you have overdue payments. NICE and KCB identify frequent use of cash advances as a negative factor."},{"question":"Does checking my credit score often lower it?","answer":"KCB and NICE state in their disclosures that they do not use inquiry information in credit assessments. Credit inquiries should be distinguished from actually taking out a loan."},{"question":"Do I get 30% of my debit card spending back in taxes?","answer":"30% is the income deduction rate for regular debit card spending, not a refund rate. The actual reduction in taxes depends on the deduction requirements and the result of your individual tax calculation."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.credit.co.kr/ib20/mnu/BZWCACCCS11","title":"NICE지키미 Personal Credit Scoring System Disclosure: Key Evaluation Factors","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc0682112929","title":"KCB AllCredit: Main Categories in Personal Credit Scoring","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.citigold.co.kr/download/cms/ir/CONSUMER_INFO/cs_consumer_credit_up_171031.pdf","title":"Financial Supervisory Service Tips for Raising Your Credit Rating (3): How to Earn Bonus Points in Personal Credit Assessments, as Posted by Citibank Korea","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc5899892294","title":"KCB AllCredit Guide to Card Limits and Utilization Ratios","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/screen/sc2678088355","title":"KCB AllCredit Credit Improvement: Guide to Card Utilization Ratios","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.allcredit.co.kr/contents/qna/120645","title":"KCB AllCredit Q\u0026A on the Number of Credit Cards Held and Credit Ratings, March 13, 2017","type":"source"},{"url":"https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MKAM0841","title":"KB Kookmin Card Guide to Using Disclosures and Glossary of Credit Card Product Terms","type":"source"},{"url":"https://m.kbcard.com/SVC/DVIEW/MSCMCXHIASVC0011","title":"KB Kookmin Card Guide to the Small-Amount Credit Payment Service for Debit Cards","type":"source"},{"url":"https://call.nts.go.kr/call/qna/selectQnaInfo.do?ctgId=CTG11898\u0026mi=1318","title":"National Tax Service Year-End Tax Settlement FAQs: Amounts Spent Using Credit Cards and Other Payment Methods","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1797,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6Mjc2NjksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--b4ed2485bddc87b5a388af908832997937de8477/ai-31c1a503.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"마트 계산대에서 여성이 지갑에서 카드를 꺼내고 있고, 옆에 식료품과 결제 단말기가 놓여 있다.","caption":"체크카드를 꾸준히 사용한 실적도 개인신용평가에 반영됩니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman takes a card from her wallet at a grocery checkout beside groceries and a payment terminal.","caption":"Consistent debit card use is also reflected in personal credit assessments.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"食料品店のレジで、女性が財布からカードを取り出している。そばには食料品と決済端末がある。","caption":"デビットカードの継続的な利用実績も個人の信用評価に反映されます。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer saca una tarjeta de su cartera en la caja de una tienda, junto a alimentos y un terminal de pago.","caption":"El uso constante de la tarjeta de débito también se tiene en cuenta en la evaluación crediticia personal.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang perempuan mengambil kartu dari dompet di kasir toko, di samping belanjaan dan mesin pembayaran.","caption":"Penggunaan kartu debit secara rutin juga diperhitungkan dalam penilaian kredit pribadi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher tira um cartão da carteira no caixa de um mercado, ao lado de compras e de um terminal de pagamento.","caption":"O uso regular do cartão de débito também é considerado na avaliação de crédito pessoal.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名女子在雜貨店結帳櫃檯從錢包取出卡片，旁邊有食品和刷卡機。","caption":"持續使用簽帳金融卡的紀錄也會納入個人信用評估。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau nimmt an der Supermarktkasse eine Karte aus ihrer Geldbörse; daneben stehen Einkäufe und ein Kartenterminal.","caption":"Die regelmäßige Nutzung einer Debitkarte fließt ebenfalls in die persönliche Bonitätsbewertung ein.","description":null}}},{"id":1798,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6Mjc2NzUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--2f250d438a6233b8402d75fdfddfc98d7d449b86/ai-24668289.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"주방 식탁에서 남성이 카드 이용 내역서 옆에 놓인 지갑에 신용카드를 넣고 있다.","caption":"신용카드는 갚을 수 있는 만큼 사용하고 결제일에 상환하는 것이 기본입니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A man puts a credit card into his wallet beside a card statement at a kitchen table.","caption":"Use a credit card for amounts you can repay and pay the bill on its due date.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"キッチンのテーブルで、男性が利用明細のそばにある財布にクレジットカードをしまっている。","caption":"クレジットカードは返済できる範囲で使い、支払日に返済することが基本です。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre guarda una tarjeta de crédito en su cartera junto a un extracto sobre la mesa de la cocina.","caption":"Usa la tarjeta de crédito por importes que puedas devolver y paga en la fecha prevista.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang pria memasukkan kartu kredit ke dompet di samping lembar tagihan di meja dapur.","caption":"Gunakan kartu kredit sesuai kemampuan membayar dan lunasi tagihan pada tanggal jatuh tempo.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem guarda um cartão de crédito na carteira ao lado de um extrato sobre a mesa da cozinha.","caption":"Use o cartão de crédito dentro da sua capacidade de pagamento e pague a fatura no vencimento.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名男子在廚房餐桌旁，將信用卡放進帳單旁的皮夾。","caption":"信用卡應在可償還的範圍內使用，並於繳款日還款。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann steckt am Küchentisch eine Kreditkarte neben einer Abrechnung in seine Brieftasche.","caption":"Nutze die Kreditkarte nur für Beträge, die du zurückzahlen kannst, und begleiche sie zum Fälligkeitstermin.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-13T03:35:58+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-13T03:35:58+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/credit-score-debit-credit-card-usage-guide"}