Credit cards often get a bad wrap, but they’re really only problematic if abused, used incorrectly, or if you’re not aware of the rules that go along with using them. Here are some little-known facts about your credit cards that could potentially help you save money and or improve your all-important credit score:

You Can Opt Out If the Issuer Hikes Rates

Unfortunately, your credit card issuer has the right to hike your APR, but you also have the right to refuse that hike if that happens. If you don’t want to pay higher rates, the issuer can’t demand that you pay your entire bill on short notice. You’ll actually have 5 whole years to pay off your balance at your current rate if you refuse the new rate.

Your Credit Card Provides Powerful Protection

If you buy something over $50 online that never arrives (or arrives in poor condition) or a charge pops up on your bill that’s not yours, your credit card has got you covered.

The Fair Credit Billing Act allows consumers to seek a refund from their credit card issuers for an unsatisfactory purchase. The charge must be at least $50, and the purchase made within 100 miles of your home. You also must have made an effort to resolve the matter with the seller first.

A “Late” Payment May Not Actually Be That Late

If you have to make a late payment on your credit card for some reason, the issuer can’t report your late account to the bureaus until the bill is 30 days past the due date. It also can’t raise your rate until you’re 60 days past due.

Also good for consumers: Issuers can’t set midday deadlines for payments under the CARD Act. The new deadline is 5 p.m. on the bill’s due date, says Todd Mark, vice president of education for Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Dallas.

Check out many more facts you should know over at Bankrate’s 8 Little-Known Facts About Your Credit Card.