Credit Card Alternatives; Some Ideas for Those Who Would Rather Not Carry Cash

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Credit Card Alternatives – Ideas for Those who Do Not Want to Use A Traditional Credit Card

Credit card alternatives are for those who do not wish to carry around a traditional credit card. Maybe you are afraid of running up a high balance, or the high interest rates of traditional cards. Perhaps you have never used a credit card, but do not want to carry a lot of cash. Maybe you feel you don’t need a credit card, but would like some form of alternative for things like renting a car. If so, here are a couple of ideas for you to consider.

The first option is a debit card through your bank. If you have a savings or checking account at your bank, check to see if you can get a debit card. With a debit card, you can only spend or withdraw money that you have in your account, so you do not need to worry about high interest rates or hurting your credit. However, for store purchases, you can use it like a credit card.

Be sure to check the fees if you are withdrawing money with your debit card at an ATM that is not at your bank. ATM fees can become a big money waster. Another tip, always use your debit card as a “credit” card at the store (do not use your PIN number) for transactions. This costs you less money.

Another credit card alternative is gift cards, including Visa or Mastercard gift cards. If you need a credit card for a vacation, you can usually purchase a gift card that is a Visa or Mastercard through your bank. There are some fees associated with these cards, but it is often a better alternative than carrying cash around.

The AccountNow Vantage Prepaid Mastercard is a wonderful option for those who do not wish to use a “regular” credit card. There are many wonderful benefits for this card, which I have listed below:

Instant Sign-up Online ,and everyone who applies is approved. The enrollment form is easy.
Use as a credit card, or access cash through an ATM You can use this card as a credit card or at various ATM machines. Watch out for ATM fees, however. Great for a vacation or anywhere you don’t want to carry lots of cash!
Has Mastercard Protection! Basically this means you have 0% liability for unauthorized purchases, just like a regular Mastercard.
FDIC insured Any money you put into the card is protected by the Federal Government, just like a bank. Another bonus, you cannot “overdraw”, but you can only spend the money you put into the card—so no high interest rates or overdraft fees.
Free Direct Deposit Have your paycheck deposited into your account for easy access to your money. Also, they have online billpay available.
Credit Builder Credit builder helps you rebuild your credit if it is bad. You are able to get credit for your bill-pay transactions that are paid on time.

The perfect alternative to a checking account

I highly recommend the AccountNow Vantage Prepaid Mastercard . If you are just trying to get a fresh start, or don’t want to risk running up credit card bills, sign up and give this credit card alternative a try!

There are several good credit card alternatives for those who choose not to own a regular card, or are unable to qualify for one. Part of living debt free is making the best choices for you, and knowing that you have options.

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