Simple mistakes that can make your credit card debt more expensive this fall

Costly errors could add thousands of dollars to your debt and trap you in a cycle that takes decades to escape. Tfilm/Getty Images

Credit card debt has become a growing financial strain for millions of households. According to the latest data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans collectively owe more than $1.21 trillion on their credit cards, and the average credit card interest rate is hovering just below 22% . That means even a small misstep can make that debt balloon faster than expected for anyone who's carrying a balance.

Those aren't the only issues at hand, either. Inflation has also put the squeeze on household budgets, leaving many people with less breathing room to cover their rising monthly expenses. That means it's easier than usual to fall beh