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Erin Huffstetler

Cash, Credit or Debit: Which is Best?

By , About.com GuideJanuary 7, 2008

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Cash, credit or debit? You're asked to make this decision every time you make a purchase, but what's the right answer? Is there a right answer? A frugal answer?

Actually, any of the payment options could be frugal with the right strategy behind it. You could:

  • use cash to avoid incurring any debt or chances of overdraft
  • use a debit card to avoid carrying cash (which you may be tempted to spend) and to avoid incurring debt
  • use a credit card to earn rewards points and pay off the balance each month

Three different approaches, but all frugal in their own way. So . . . which approach do I take?

I prefer to use a debit card (run as credit) for most purchases because it keeps me honest. It prevents me from spending money that I don't have, and it makes me think twice about the money that I'm spending.

Which approach works best for you? Take part in our poll and share your comments.

Poll: How do you prefer to pay for purchases?

1) Cash
2) Credit
3) Debit

View Results

On the Forum: Debit Cards = BAD, BAD, BAD!!!

Comments
January 7, 2008 at 5:50 pm
(1) Mary :

I prefer to write a check. I use duplicates, so I can easily keep up with my spending using on-line banking.

January 9, 2008 at 11:13 am
(2) bridget :

i am a senior and have used my debit
card for several years.a debit card that is used wisely can be great and i
gave it all of my credit cards because
i cannot afford them.i refuse to use\\
checks for any of my purchases.

July 9, 2010 at 2:33 am
(3) Credit Cards :

I thinks credit & debit are best than case.
Credit Cards

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