I actually only have 3 active cards, and I keep those because I keep getting hit with unexpected expenses. Car repairs (either my husband's or my own car), and as a new house owner, I've gotten caught out a few times with things like the water bill, repairs, heat in winter, etc.

These are irregular and predictable expenses vs. unexpected. Plan out with DH what expenses you anticpiate experiencing over the next year. My categories include auto insurance, HOI, property taxes, vacation, atuo repair, household repairs, heating, medical bills, professional services (CPA, lawyer, etc.). Your list will undoubtedly be different. Tally up the yearly expenses, divide by 12, and set that amount aside in a savings account each month. This way when you need new tires the money is already set aside. If you find yourself saying that you can't afford to set this amount aside you need to take a very hard look at your overall budget to figure out where you can trim back. The good folks on this board would be delighted to give you feedback if you post your detailed budget. Of course you could always go over to the budgeting board too for more ideas.

Pyrola