Paying with a credit card offers a level of convenience that, in many ways, cash can’t match. It’s all too easy to make quick, contactless payments using a credit card in-store or online, and it can also provide you with additional benefits like cashback points, discounts, and other rewards while contributing to building up your credit history. At the same time, opting to pay using a credit card provides an extra layer of security. This is because credit card providers like Maya adhere to world-class safety standards and use effective fraud detection systems to protect your purchases and personal information from data breaches, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
Given these advantages, you might wonder when it's the right time to add a credit card to your arsenal of financial tools. Here are some of the situations where paying using credit cards offers you the best benefits:
When You Have Big Purchases or Are Paying for Expensive Items
Credit cards are a smart choice for big-ticket purchases like electronics, furniture, or appliances. Many credit card issuers offer 0% interest installment plans, which allow you to pay off high-cost items over several months without the pressure of paying a lump sum upfront. This feature can ease the financial burden of buying high-value items and give you the flexibility to manage your budget more effectively. On top of that, some credit cards offer extended warranties on purchases. These features give you extra protection beyond what the store provides. In this case, using a credit card is not just about splitting the payment but also about gaining extra security and financial flexibility.
Whenever You’re Shopping Online
Shopping online is more convenient than ever in the digital age, and using credit cards to complete your purchases over the Internet can make the process even smoother and safer. This is because credit cards typically come with features that are designed to protect your details and transactions. The Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card powered by Maya, for instance, employs a dynamic CVV that has a 24-hour validity period. Once the code expires, it can no longer be used to authorize future purchases, thus adding a layer of protection to your transactions. The virtual Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card and dynamic CVV can be accessed on the Maya app.
In addition to security features, mobile banking apps that are connected to credit cards can be set up to send notifications every time they are used as well as fraud alerts. These can be helpful in catching suspicious activities on your account before any real damage is done. With these features, credit cards offer peace of mind while shopping online, both locally and internationally.
When You Want to Maximize Earning Rewards or Cashback
One of the biggest perks of using a credit card is the rewards you can earn for everyday purchases. Many credit cards offer reward programs, including points, miles, or cashback on purchases. Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, for one, comes with up to 5% cashback every time it is used to pay for Landers purchases, 2% cashback on dining spends, and 1% cashback for other qualified purchases.* This means you can benefit from spending on items you would have bought anyway, like groceries and food. Over time, these rewards can add up and be redeemed for discounts and other rewards.
When You’re Dealing with Emergency Expenses
Emergencies, whether medical or related to your home or car, often come with little warning and require immediate funds. In these moments, having a credit card can be a lifeline. Instead of depleting your savings, you can use your credit card to cover the cost and then gradually pay it off over time. While it’s always advisable to have an emergency fund, credit cards provide a useful backup in case your emergency expenses exceed what you have on hand. There are also credit cards that offer short-term interest-free periods. Maximizing these offers gives you time to settle the payment before any interest accrues and allows you to navigate tough situations without financial strain.
When You’re Taking Part in Foreign Transactions
When traveling abroad or shopping on international websites, using your credit card can save you both time and money. Many credit cards offer competitive exchange rates, which are often better than what you’d get at money changers or banks. By using your credit card instead of cash, you can also avoid the hassle of carrying large sums of money while enjoying the convenience of widely accepted card payments in most countries.
If There Are Promos, Special Offers, or Discounts for Credit Card Users
Credit cards often come with exclusive access to promotions or special offers at certain retailers, restaurants, or other establishments. Some issuers even have partnerships with popular brands. Participating in these promos or special offers can give you access to deals and discounts, leading to significant savings over time. Using your credit card for these promotions helps you stretch your budget and take full advantage of special deals that wouldn't be available if you were paying with cash or a debit card.
When You Are Actively Building or Improving Your Credit Score
Finally, one of the most important reasons to use your credit card regularly is to build or improve your credit score. Every time you make a purchase and pay your bill on time, you’re contributing to a positive credit history. Regular credit card use, coupled with consistent and timely payments, can increase your credit score and make it easier for you to apply for loans, mortgages, or other financial products. A good credit score can also lead to better interest rates and terms on loans, potentially saving you thousands in the long run. By using your credit card smartly, paying off your balance regularly, and staying within your credit limit, you can ensure that you maintain a healthy credit profile that will benefit you in the future.
As you can see, using credit cards like Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card responsibly can provide numerous benefits. By understanding when and how to use your credit card to its fullest advantage, you not only make your financial life more convenient but also set yourself up for better financial opportunities in the future.
*Transactions that don’t qualify include: cash in, cash advance, quasi cash purchases, casinos and gambling, fuel, supermarket, pharmaceuticals, utilities, telco, and government.
