Fistfuls of Credit Cards: How Many Is Too Many?

According to a recent Experian National Score Index study, about 14 percent of US consumers have more than 10 credit cards, and one in seven use at least half of their available credit. The study also found that US consumers have an average of four credit cards, and just over half–51 percent–have at least two credit cards.

So how many is too many? 888-MyMoney.net states that the guideline is to maintain only the number of cards that you can handle responsibly, and that two credit cards are better than one in unfortunate situations such as cards being stolen. A backup card (with a zero balance) will provide some credit while you’re waiting for the stolen card(s) to be replaced. But remember, maxing out any of your cards is always a no-no.