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anne
FiLifer

Is it better to pay cash or pay on time (no interest, no fees)?


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Doug Kinsey
FiLife Contributor

I agree with the previous responses, and would add that just make sure your overall debt is not beyond an acceptable amount. We recommend that our clients have no more than 10% of their income in consumer debt (which may include car loans, depending on the specifics).

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Oscar Miranda
FiLifer

If in fact, there is no interest and no fees. It is better to pay on time.

The Logic is simple- make the required payments, and the funds that would have been used to make purchase can be placed in a financial instrument generating positive interest.

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David R Hanson
FiLife Contributor

Depends on what's most important to you.

Some people find it easier to budget and avoid excessive expenditures with cash. Indeed, a fair amount of research backs this up.

On the other hand, using credit can give you rewards, add protection against shoddy goods or seller scams, and other benefits besides ( extended warranties, theft or accident reimbursement).

If you use financial software like quicken, using a credit card can also help you track spending with much less effort.

I generally charge almost everything, excepting very small purchases where I know that using a credit card will cost the seller a significant percentage of my purchase.

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