How to Live With No Credit Cards

You can avoid using credit cards.

With credit card companies increasing rates and closing out accounts, many people are learning the benefits of a cash-only lifestyle. If you want to ditch the credit cards and start using cash only, some tips will get you started.

Instructions

1. Stop using your existing credit cards. Even if you still have a credit card balance, cut up all but one credit card. That single credit card should always be left at home unless you are on vacation. You will use it only in extreme emergencies.

2. Pay off your credit cards as soon as possible. The sooner you can cut off all correspondence with them, the easier it will be to live a cash only lifestyle. Call your credit card company and find out your credit card balance.

3. Get a debit card for your checking account. Most people already have a debit card, but if you do not, then make sure you get one. There is usually no cost involved to get and use a debit card.

4. Use checks instead of credit cards.

5. Take your single credit card with you but do not use it when you go on vacation. Purchase traveler's checks, which now come on a prepaid card, and use that instead of cash.

6. Ask if a business will take cash if it wants a credit card. If the won't, find someone else to do business with.

7. Consider using PayPal for online purchase. The money is withdrawn from you checking account.

References

• "USA Today"; More consumers just say no to credit cards; Sandra Block; February 2010