Credit Cards versus Debit Cards

BadMoneyAdvice recently wrote My Debit Card Confusion about how he is mystified that so many people use debit cards rather than credit cards. He cited an article that said that 50% of transactions are done with debit cards and that their use is on the rise. Personally I use a credit card for almost all of my spending. I put everything I can on my credit card. I do this because I get 1% or more cash back on all my purchases. At the end of the year this should add up to a few hundred dollars. But keep in mind that I pay off my bill every month.

Here's my opinion on whether credit or debit is better:

If you carry a credit card balance or have difficulty avoiding going into debt with credit cards then a debit card is probably your better option.

If you pay off your credit card every month and don't have difficulty over spending then a good rewards credit card is a better choice.

Looking at credit cards versus debit cards they each have different benefits and draw backs.

Benefits of Credit Cards
You get to use the banks money for 1 month
Good rewards programs with 1-2% cash back incentives
Convenience of one bill at end of month
More protections against identity theft
Improves your credit score
Purchase protections
Possible warranty extensions

Downsides of Credit Cards
Its borrowed money
High interest rates if you don't pay off balance
Its an additional bill to pay


Benefits of Debit Cards
Its cash money
No extra bill to pay
No worry of accumulating debt or paying interest

Downsides of Debit Cards
Higher risk of losing money from ID theft
Risking hefty overdraft fees if you spend more than account balance


If you pay off your bill every month then the benefits of credit cards outweigh their drawbacks and credit cards are more beneficial than debit cards.