The **due date** is when you must pay at least the minimum amount to avoid late fees and keep a positive payment history.
The **reporting date** (or statement closing date) is when your credit card issuer reports your balance to credit bureaus, affecting your credit utilization and score.
To manage credit well:
- Pay before the **due date** to avoid penalties.
- Pay down your balance before the **reporting date** for lower utilization.
Reporting date is usually 3 days after due date
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