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If you have a low income and sometimes struggle to make ends meet, you are hardly alone. According to a February 2024 MarketWatch Guides survey, as many as 66.2% of Americans currently feel like they’re living paycheck to paycheck, meaning roughly two out of every three people are feeling somewhat strapped.

Factors that can make saving money challenging include inflation (the cost of living has risen sharply in recent years) and heavy debt loads, with the average person carrying $6,000+ on their credit cards. These two forces can quickly eat away income, making it feel impossible to save.

Thankfully, there’s a way forward. What follows are 14 smart tips for how to save money on a low income. They can help boost your financial wellness.

Smart Ways to Save Money with Low Income

1. Finding a Budget Method That Suits You

A budget is a way for you to track your income, help you make good financial decisions, and plan towards goals. It paints a picture of how much money you have coming in and going out and how you are allocating funds, which you can use to identify areas for improvement. A budget can also help you see what resources you have available to cover your living expenses. With it, you can see how to make money stretch further.

There are a wide range of budget methods to choose from. A traditional approach is building a line item budget, which involves tracking your expenses in a spreadsheet. You can build a spreadsheet from scratch, or use a template.

Google Sheets has a free template that’s great for beginners, and you can also create a budget in Excel. If you prefer to simplify the process, you might want to download a budgeting app that can categorize and track your spending for you.

Whatever budgeting style you choose, it’s a good idea to automate the saving process. Once you see how much you can realistically set aside each month, consider setting up an automated recurring transfer from your checking account into a savings account (ideally a high-yield savings account).

2. Watching Money Spent on Food and Drink

If you’re thinking about how to save money with a low income, one wise move can be dining in. That may mean opting for pasta at home instead of the cute Italian place nearby.

Making meals at home is typically cheaper than eating out. And the gap has widened: In recent years, restaurant prices have risen faster than general inflation. Just keep in mind that cooking at home can cut costs as long as your grocery bill is sensible. Look for budget-friendly recipes that are simple and use all the ingredients in your pantry. Search online for affordable recipes, including “recipes under $10.” You’ll likely find many options.

Another way to save money on groceries is to choose more affordable proteins like eggs, beans, chicken, fish, and quinoa over beef and lamb. Also consider saving alcoholic beverages for weekends or special occasions only, and reach for lower-cost drink options like home-made iced tea, flavored seltzers, or good old tap water on the weekdays.

3. Getting Rid of Debt One Step at a Time

Studies show that debt can cause stress and negatively impact mental and even physical health. Paying off debt can be a major motivation to save money. It’s one less bill to pay at the end of the month, and the freedom is empowering.

How to approach debt reduction? Always be sure to pay at least the minimum amount due. Then consider these two techniques that can help you become more financially stable with a low income:

•   In the snowball method, you use extra funds to pay off the smallest debt first, giving you a sense of accomplishment for wiping out a balance. Then you move on to the next smallest debt.

•   In the avalanche method, you use extra funds to pay off high-interest accounts first, regardless of the balance. That can be a wise move since this is the kind of debt that often keeps people owing money for a long period of time. Credit card debt is a common example of high-interest debt.

You also can combine your debts into one account with a debt consolidation loan. These personal loans typically have a lower annual percentage rate (APR), which can save you considerable money in the long run.

4. Finding Ways to Get Rid of Nonessentials

When creating a budget, it’s a good idea to create two main spending categories — essential and nonessential expenses.

Essential expenses will include housing, groceries, transportation, utility bills, and more. An example of transportation costs might be car payments, car insurance, gas, monthly train passes, and so forth.

Nonessentials usually include wants vs. needs (such as items like clothing you like but don’t require and entertainment). If you’re a sneakerhead or handbag collector, it may be time to pause shopping. But if you need fresh clothes and shoes for work, set a target amount you can afford to spend that month. Make your dollars stretch with sales racks at stores or second-hand steals.

5. Changing to a Cheaper Entertainment Subscription Model

Can’t live without Netflix? What about HBO, Disney, and Hulu? Combined, those streaming services can debit a fair amount of money out of your checking account each month (or, depending on how you pay, year).

While it’s important to unwind, sometimes cutting entertainment is worth the savings. Consider free entertainment on your TV or computer. There are plenty of apps that offer free on-demand and live streaming services. You can also get classic TV antennas that pick up the major networks for free.

Finally, try the library. Most carry more than just books — movies too. You just need a library card.

6. Cutting Back on Larger Expenses

Looking for other ways to save money on a low income? You may also be able to cut some of your large monthly bills. Your biggest expense is likely housing, so you might start there. Several factors affect rent or mortgages, like location and amenities. Consider living in a cheaper neighborhood temporarily. Also, a home with fewer amenities like a patio or pool are typically cheaper.

Other options include getting roommates or, if it’s feasible, even going rent-free. If you have family nearby, it might be worth asking to live with them for a low fee or even rent-free, provided you have a plan to get on your feet or can contribute to the household (say, by cooking or cleaning).

Transportation is another large cost. If your job is a safe and reasonable distance to bike to, try it out. Bikes are generally inexpensive to maintain, plus offer the benefit of staying fit and going green.

Recommended: Determining the Right Spending/Budgeting Categories

7. Saving What You Can

It’s also a good idea to cut smaller costs that, due to frequency or habit, tend to add up. An $8 fancy coffee once a week costs $416 a year. On a smaller income, that can eat away your earnings. If you can save $5 or $10 a week by making one or two minor changes — that’s a good start. It’s better than saving zero dollars. And even small savings can add up to a significant sum over time.

8. Separating Money for Yourself From Other Expenses

One simple way to make sure you save is to pay yourself first. That means that before you pay your other bills, you take out a set amount of money and put it into savings as soon as you get paid. Whatever is left over is the money you can spend on everything else. Once the money you set aside for yourself (and your goals) is out of your checking account, you won’t be tempted to spend it.

9. Turning On Alerts for Bill Payments

Setting up reminders for your bills can help you avoid late fees, which can eat up your funds. You can set up alerts using the calendar on your phone, or you can use a budgeting or payment app to keep you on top of upcoming payment due dates.

Even better: Consider setting up autopay for all of your regular bills. This can help ensure you never miss a payment. Just keep in mind that you will need to make sure you have sufficient funds in your account before payments are pulled.

10. Spending Less on Your Car

A car can be expensive. Some tips to make it more affordable:

•   Buy a car — don’t lease. You generally get more value paying off a car compared to leasing a car.

•   Buy used. Used cars are typically cheaper than new cars. And, because they’re used, the insurance tends to be cheaper as well. Buying a pre-owned car also means it won’t lose value as quickly as a new car. Some estimates say that a new car loses 20% of its value in the first year.

•   Aim to get a car that gets great gas mileage. An SUV or truck can easily cost $100 for a full tank. If you’re paying for a gas guzzler, it might be worth downsizing to a car that gets better gas mileage.

11. Finding Ways to Cut Entertainment Costs

Reading, listening to music, and tuning into your favorite program are all free or low-cost ways to relax and have fun.

Instead of booking concert tickets for your favorite band, consider listening to their tunes on free apps (YouTube, for instance). Also check listings and see which local bands are playing; that could be a good way to discover some new favorites.

If you enjoy a good show, check out free TV streaming apps like Tubi or Pluto TV. Both have a great selection of movies and shows on demand or live.

12. Eliminating Your Bad Habits

If you’re looking to improve your financial situation, it’s a good idea to look at your good and bad spending habits.

Do you buy groceries at the gourmet deli instead of a cheaper supermarket? Do you tend to eat out because you didn’t pack a lunch? Do you leave the AC running in your apartment while you’re out all day?

These are all costly habits you can change. Find a cheaper grocery store. You’ll find your dollar can stretch a lot further with cheaper prices. Try meal prepping on weekends so you can pack lunches for work each week. Lastly, run electricity only when you need it — and compare bills. You’ll likely see a difference.

13. Committing to a Month of No Spending

A no-spend challenge can be a fun way to save.
A no spend-challenge means that you avoid discretionary spending altogether for a set period of time, such as 30 days. During that time you only spend on necessities like rent and groceries, and don’t spend money on movie theater tickets, clothes, or even chocolate. You might want to let your friends know you are doing the challenge so they don’t tempt you into spending. They might even join you.

At the end of the challenge, you’ll have likely saved a significant sum of cash. You may also find that you didn’t miss some of the things you stopped spending on and decide to cut them out of your budget or reduce how much you spend on them.

14. Getting Help if You Need It

If you find yourself still living paycheck to paycheck, there’s help.
If you have substantial debt, consider reaching out to the nonprofit National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)). They offer free and low-cost debt and credit counseling, along with other services.

Also, cities, states, and the federal government provide help in the form of subsidized housing, discounted healthcare, and free groceries. Simply call the 211 network 24/7 to share your situation and get connected to the right people.

You can also use the government’s benefit finder that can match you with the right programs.

15. Automating Your Savings

Once you have a budget in place, it’s easier to know how much you should save a month.

As mentioned above, one way to simplify saving is to try automating transfers, a feature many banks offer that moves money from your checking account to your savings account on a certain date. For example, if you’re paid every Friday, you can set up an automatic transfer of the desired amount to your savings or investment accounts.

If you put away $50 each week, you’ll have $2,600 at the end of the year.

Why Saving Money With a Low Income Is Possible

No matter what your income, it’s tempting to live like a rock star or just try to keep up with your higher-earning friends. Or you might feel like your smaller earnings are not worth saving, and you’ll wait till you make more. But it’s possible to save more than you think even on a lower income.

If you make savings a priority and adjust your lifestyle to your income, it can pay off and help you increase your financial well-being. Simple changes like learning to budget, choosing lower-cost groceries, swapping out driving for cheaper (and greener) forms of transportation, and buying second hand can all help you take control. These moves can also help you pay down any debt you may have, build your rainy-day savings, and achieve longer-term financial goals.

The Takeaway

Whether you earn a lot or a little, living within your means always pays off.
Budgeting is the first step to getting your finances organized. It’ll help you see how much money you have to cover your monthly expenses and how much you have leftover for savings. You’ll also see a clearer picture of your spending habits.

Once you have a sense of your spending habits, you can find ways to spend smarter. That means finding cheaper options for necessities and cutting nonessential spending.

Finally, be sure to set attainable savings goals and put your cash away in a high-yield account to help it grow faster.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Why is saving money so hard?

Saving can often be hard because of our mindset. We don’t focus on creating and sticking to a budget and instead spend feely, in the moment. If you are following a budget but find it hard to free up cash to save, you might take on a side hustle to help bring in more income.

What happens if you don’t save money?

Having money in savings is a safety net for unexpected expenses like a medical bill or job loss. Without one, you may find yourself unable to pay for bills, which could cause you to take on high-interest debt and/or pull you closer towards poverty. It’s wise to have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses stored away in case of emergency.

How do I get the motivation to save when I do not make much?

With social media in today’s culture, it might seem like everyone has what they want (except you). So it’s important to put on blinders, and focus on your journey. Delete apps that encourage you to overspend, and ask trusted friends or mentors to navigate this territory together. Save whatever amount you can: Don’t get discouraged by comparing yourself to others’ savings plans.

Photo credit: iStock/Rocco-Herrmann
SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOBNK-Q324-053

If you’re new to credit or want to rebuild your credit, becoming an authorized user on another person’s credit card account can help. As an authorized user on a credit card, your credit score can be positively impacted when the account and its activity are managed well and reported to the credit bureaus. The card’s activity is still also reported under the primary account holder’s credit profile, in addition to yours.

Being an authorized user does have its share of responsibilities. You’ll want to make sure to maintain responsible credit card habits as an authorized user to help your credit, as well as to avoid adversely impacting the primary account holder’s credit.

What It Means to Be an Authorized User

When you’re an authorized user, you have a credit card that’s attached to another person’s account. This duplicate credit card, also known as a supplementary credit card, will have your name on it, and you’ll be able to use it to make purchases. Since you’re not the primary account holder, you won’t have the authority to make changes to the account.

As an authorized user, you’re not legally responsible for making a payment after each billing cycle. That responsibility remains solely with the original cardholder, which marks a major distinction between an authorized user relationship and a joint credit card account. Since you’re not liable for repaying the charges as an authorized user, you might not get a monthly statement.

In terms of getting started as an authorized user, be aware that some issuers impose an annual fee to add authorized users to a card account. Additionally, some credit cards have limits for the maximum number of authorized users permitted on an account.

Further, card issuers often have a minimum age requirement that you must meet as an authorized user. The age requirement depends on the issuer. For example, SoFi requires authorized users to be at least 15 years old, while the minimum authorized user age for an American Express Platinum Card is 13 years old.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit?

How Being an Authorized User Affects Your Credit Score

There are a couple of ways that being an authorized user on a credit card can affect your credit score.

If the Lender Reports Authorized Users to Credit Bureaus

If your main goal in becoming an authorized user is establishing credit or rebuilding your credit history, this can be a viable option to pursue. Card issuers don’t require a credit check to become an authorized user.

Your credit score can be positively affected if the issuer reports satisfactory payment activity and usage to the credit bureaus for all persons named on the account. Keep in mind that not all credit card companies send activity data to the bureaus for authorized users, though. So before going this route, ask the primary user to confirm whether the issuer does.

How You Use the Shared Account

If the bank reports the card’s positive activity to credit bureaus for all users, it will also report unsatisfactory activity. Being an authorized user can hurt your credit if a late or missed payment is reported and included on an authorized user’s credit profile, for example. On the flipside, on-time payments or a low credit utilization rate can help the credit of both the primary and authorized users.

Since the card data that’s included for an authorized user depends on the credit bureau, ask the credit issuer to specify which credit agency it reports to. That way, you’re aware of the factors that affect credit scores.

Risks Associated With Being an Authorized User

A major risk of becoming an authorized user on a credit card is that it can adversely affect your credit score. If the primary user fails to make at least the minimum monthly payment on time, for instance, that will also impact your score, assuming the bureau reports payment history for authorized users.

Additionally, the purchase behavior of all users on a card could put a strain on the account’s limit, pushing balances near or at the borrowing limit. This will affect the credit utilization on the account, which also can impact the credit score of all users on the account.

With so many factors that need to be in balance, each user associated with the card must have a clear understanding of purchase and repayment expectations. If an individual drops the ball, it can put a strain on the relationship in addition to the users’ credit scores.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

Who Should You Ask to Add You as an Authorized User?

Asking another person to add you as an authorized user on their credit card is significant. It requires the utmost mutual trust, which is why this individual is typically someone who’s very close to you. This might include your:

•   Spouse or partner

•   Parent

•   Grandparent

•   Adult child

•   Adult sibling

•   Aunt or uncle

It’s helpful to clarify expectations around payment before being added as an authorized user. For example, do they want to cap your spending power on the card? When do they want payment for your charges? What’s the expectation if, for any unforeseen reason, you can’t cover your part of the bill?

Even though the primary cardholder is liable for the payments, it’s helpful to come to an agreement about how you two will settle your purchases, one-on-one.

Using Your Credit Card Responsibly

Receiving authorized user status on a credit card is a convenient way to build your credit profile. It also can help you practice responsible borrowing habits. A few sensible practices when using a credit card as an authorized user include to:

•   Avoid overspending. Examine your budget before using your card to verify that you can afford the purchase.

•   Ensure payments are made on time. Communicate with the primary cardholder to confirm that at least the minimum payment is made by the credit card due date. If you’re covering your portion of the charges, make sure to get the money to the primary cardholder by the date you agreed upon.

•   Be mindful of the card’s limit. Avoid keeping an ongoing high balance close to the credit card limit, which can negatively affect credit. Authorized users might not have access to the account history or statements, so regular communication with the primary user is essential.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

The Takeaway

As an authorized user, your credit score could be built from the positive borrowing activity on the card, assuming the the issuer reports the account activity to the credit bureaus. Additionally, the card must be managed responsibly — otherwise, your credit could be negatively impacted. Getting added to a card that doesn’t charge an authorized user fee can be a good way to get started.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Can authorized users affect your credit?

If an authorized user racks up charges, it might adversely affect your credit utilization ratio, which in turn can lower your credit score.

Additionally, you’re legally liable for all charges the authorized user makes on the card. If they’re unable to pay and you also can’t keep up with the payments, missed or late payments can negatively impact your credit.

Does an authorized user get a hard inquiry?

Typically, authorized users who are added onto an existing account don’t undergo a hard inquiry. Since the primary cardholder is the person who opened the account and is still 100% liable for all charges made to the card, credit issuers usually don’t need to verify the authorized user’s credit background or ability to repay the debt — even if they make charges.

What is the minimum age to be an authorized user?

The minimum age for authorized users on a credit card will vary with the card’s issuer. In some cases, the user must be aged 13, 15, or 18. In other situations, there may be no age restriction at all. Check with the issuer to know for sure.

Photo credit: iStock/tolgart

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC-Q324-043

Credit card companies don’t alway make it easy, but there are ways to pay your credit card bill with your debit card. To use your debit card to pay a credit card bill, you must do so via bank transfer payment. In other words, you have to use either a credit card provider’s payment portal or a third-party payment portal that includes not only your debit card information, but also your banking information.

Keep in mind, however, that credit card companies usually prefer to receive payment funds from the customer’s bank account over a physical debit card. Many credit card providers simply don’t accept monthly bill payments with physical debit cards, but they will allow debit card payments if you play by their rules. That may change the way you use a debit card to pay a credit card bill, but it doesn’t mean you can’t do it.

Can You Pay a Credit Card With a Debit Card?

You might be able to pay a credit card with a debit card. Whether you can do so really depends on the credit card provider’s policy on debit card payments — some credit card policies allow for them, and others don’t.

Consequently, you may have to go out of your way to get the job done. When you go to pay your credit card bill, there likely won’t be an option to enter a card number as a method of payment, whether that card is a credit card or a debit card. In most cases, however, you can pay your credit card bill with the bank account that the debit card is attached to by making an electronic transfer.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

How to Make a Credit Card Bill Payment (Indirectly) With a Debit Card

Even if you can’t use a debit card to directly pay a credit card bill, you can indirectly use a debit card — or rather the funds attached to that debit card — to pay your outstanding credit card debt. Here’s how:

1.    Review your checking account, and get the bank routing number and checking account number. Do so privately and securely, so as not to attract financial fraudsters.

2.    Go to your credit card account to set up automatic payment. A handy feature of how credit cards work, this will allow money to be withdrawn from your bank account ahead of the monthly payment due date. On that date, the credit card company will withdraw the specified cash amount from your bank account.

3.    Make sure you have enough cash in your bank account to cover the withdrawal. If you don’t, your credit card company will reject the payment. It’s up to you to reach out and make good on your monthly credit card payment that’s due. Any delay in doing so could result in a missed or late payment, which could have financial consequences.

Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due?

Paying a Credit Card Bill With a Debit Card Online

If you’re using a debit card to pay a credit card bill online, you’ll probably need to make that payment through the credit card’s payment portal. The good news is that credit card companies may accommodate online debit card payments.

Once you’ve signed into your credit card account, you’ll be given several options to pay your bill. The most common methods include ACH bank payment, a third-party payment platform, over the phone, or with your debit card.

Simply click on the debit card payment option and fill in your card details (this should only be a one-time occurrence as your debit card information should be securely held by your credit card provider in its payment portal.)

Once your debit card information is accurately entered, review the payment and hit “send.” Your payment should be confirmed immediately by the card carrier, and the money will leave your debit card account within 24 hours or so.

Paying a Credit Card Bill With a Debit Card Offline

Credit card companies likely allow you to use your debit card to make a credit card payment by phone, in person, and sometimes through the sponsoring bank’s ATM.

Make sure you have your debit card on you before paying at any bank or over the phone. If even one digit is wrong, the payment won’t go through, and you’ll have to revert to another form of payment to cover your credit card debt.

Are There Any Downsides to Paying Your Credit Card Bill With a Debit Card?

The fact is, while credit card companies will accept debit card bill payments, it’s not their preferred form of payment. It’s easier for credit card carriers to process bank ACH payments or third-party payments through platforms like PayPal, which handle the process for the card company. As such, you’ll have to jump through hoops or go an indirect route, similar to if you were to try to pay a credit card statement with another credit card.

Further, debit card payments may be prone to various outcomes that credit card companies don’t like. This includes scenarios such as the cardholder not having enough money in their account to cover the credit card payment or the fact that debit cards are common targets of financial fraudsters. In fact, a key difference between a credit card and debit card is their levels of payment protection.

The Takeaway

Just because you can use a debit card, even in limited fashion, to pay your credit card bill doesn’t mean you should. To keep payments flowing smoothly and to protect your debit card (and your bank account), it’s likely a better move to pay your credit card bills via bank ACH transactions or through secure third-party payment processors. That way, your payment still originates from your bank checking account — only without the potential payment and security headaches that may come with using a debit card to pay a credit card bill.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Can I pay a credit card online with a debit card?

Technically, yes, you can pay your credit card bill with your debit card. However, it may take some extra steps to do so.

Can I pay my credit card at an ATM with a debit card?

Yes, you can typically use a debit card at an ATM to pay a credit card bill — but only an ATM from the bank that offers the credit card.

Are there extra charges for paying a credit card with a debit card?

You generally won’t face any extra charges for paying a credit card with a debit card. You may simply have to jump through some extra hoops to do so.

Can I pay my credit card bill with someone else’s debit card?

While this is technically doable, it’s not advisable. Using another party’s debit card to pay a credit card bill can get complicated, especially if you’re not certain the other person’s bank account has sufficient funds to cover your balance.

Photo credit: iStock/insta_photos

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC-Q324-028

When a cash-back rewards credit card features a 2% cash back feature, that means you receive a flat 2% back on all purchases. This can be a solid way to reap rewards.

Read on to learn the ins and outs of what 2% cash back actually means, as well as the pros and cons of a 2% cash-back credit card, to help you determine whether it’s worth your while.

What Is Cash Back?

Cash back is a form of reward that cash-back credit cards offer that allows you to earn money back on purchases you make. Other examples of credit card rewards include points or travel miles.

With a flat-rate cash-back card, all of your purchases earn the same amount in cash back. Other credit card issuers might offer higher cash-back rates on certain spending categories, such as on gas or groceries.

Meanwhile, some may feature rotating bonus categories to give your rewards-earning abilities a boost. For example, you might earn 5% cash back in the fall months on purchases made at restaurants and on gas.

You can redeem the cash-back rewards you earn in the form of a check, bank transfer, or gift card, or as a statement credit. Other options might include making a charitable donation or making a purchase through the issuer’s online portal. Depending on the credit card, there might be a spending threshold you need to meet before you can redeem your cash-back rewards.

What Is 2% Cash Back?

Earning 2% cash back simply means that for every $100 you spend on your credit card, you’ll get $2 back. So if you were to spend $1,000, that’s $20 back in your pocket — though you’ll then have to redeem that cash back in order to make the rewards usable.

How 2% Cash-Back Credit Cards Work

As mentioned previously, having a 2% cash-back credit card means you’ll earn two cents back for every $1 you spend using the card, or $2 for every $100, and so forth.

There might not be a limit to how much you can earn in cash back. However, in other cases, the card may cap the amount of cash-back rewards you can earn for either regular spending or spending in bonus categories.

Pros and Cons of 2% Cash Back

While a 2% cash back card does come with some advantages, there are some drawbacks as well. Take a look at both:

Pros

•   Easy to use: A major benefit of a 2% cash-back credit card is that the rules are simple: You spend money, and get a certain amount back. Plus, redeeming rewards is usually pretty straightforward, and you have a choice of how to do so.

•   Can rack up rewards quickly: If you use your credit card for everyday purchases, you’ll accrue rewards fairly fast. Of course, only put everyday purchases on your card if you can afford to pay them off, and always use your card responsibly, considering what a credit card is and the implications overspending can have for your credit score.

•   Often no annual fee: Many cash-back cards don’t have an annual fee. That means you won’t need to worry about spending enough to offset the fee.

Cons

•   Higher APRs compared to non-rewards credit cards: While your annual percentage rate (APR) on a card partly depends on your credit and other financial factors, rewards credit cards like cash-back cards tend to carry higher interest rates. If you keep a balance on your account, you can expect to pay a pretty penny in interest, given how credit cards work.

•   Earning caps may apply: While some credit cards allow you to earn unlimited cash-back rewards, others place a limit on how much you can earn. If you’re looking to max out your rewards potential, a cap could make that harder to do.

•   Don’t often offer travel rewards or perks: If you’re hoping to earn rewards that apply to travel, such as airline trips or hotel stays, a cash-back credit card likely isn’t the form of rewards credit card for you. While some cards may offer travel redemption options, most don’t, and many also charge foreign transaction fees.

Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due?

Is a 2% Cash Back-Credit Card Worth It?

Whether a 2% cash-back credit card is worth it really depends on how you’ll use the credit card. This includes what types of purchases you’d like to make, and if you plan on using your card for bills and everyday expenses, such as gas and groceries. If you use the credit card regularly, you’ll be able to earn a greater amount of cash-back rewards.

However, you’ll also want to balance that spending with sticking to important credit card rules, like not spending more than you can afford to pay off. Because rewards credit cards tend to have higher interest rates, it’s important to avoid carrying a balance so you don’t cancel out the cash back you earn.

A cash-back rewards card might not be worth it if you prefer to use your credit card rewards for travel. In that case, a travel rewards credit card typically will offer more lucrative ways to earn points or miles to use on trips.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Guide to Using a 2% Cash-Back Credit Card

If you get a 2% cash-back card, here are some tips to keep in mind to use it effectively:

•   Read the redemption rules. Familiarize yourself with credit card requirements, and see if there are any limits on how much cash back you can earn. Similarly, check if you need to hit a minimum amount in cash-back earnings before you can redeem those rewards.

•   Be intentional with your purchases. Devise a plan for how you intend to use your cash-back credit card. Perhaps you would prefer to use it on big-ticket items, or maybe on seasonal purchases, such as during the holidays or back-to-school season. This will help you make the most of your card.

•   Choose how you’ll receive your rewards. YYou’ll also want to decide whether you plan on receiving the cash-back in the form of an ACH transfer to your account, as a statement credit, or as a check dropped in the mail. You also might be able to use your rewards by making online purchases through the credit card’s shopping portal, or by purchasing gift cards or donating to charity.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

Maximizing 2% Cash-Back Earnings

If you have a cash-back credit card, it’s worth your while to take the time to determine how to maximize your earnings. Here are several ways to do so.

Use Your Card For Everyday Purchases and Bills

Consider using your cash-back card on major spending categories to earn the most on rewards. For example, if you spend $4,500 a year on food for you and your family and put all of your groceries and dining expenses on your card, you’ll get $90 in cash-back on just that spending alone.

You might also consider putting your recurring bills and subscription services on your credit cards. This will allow you to scoop up points in areas you already spend.

Just make sure you aren’t spending beyond your means. Keep an eye on your expenditures, and commit to paying off your balance in full each month.

Put Big-Ticket Buys on Your Card

If you’ve been saving up for a sleek new laptop or coveted designer shoes, consider putting that cost on your 2% cash-back card. That way, you can get the item and earn a bit of cash back on the purchase.

Your card may even come with added perks, such as purchase protection or an extended manufacturer’s warranty.

Look for a Card With No Annual Fee

A card without an annual fee means you won’t need to spend as much to make the cash-back rewards worthwhile. Case in point: If you get a card with a $40 annual fee, you’ll need to put $2,000 in purchases to break even at a 2% cash-back rewards rate.

Pay Off Your Balance in Full Each Month

As cash-back credit cards tend to have higher APRs, make it a point to pay off your card in full. This will help you avoid racking up interest charges, which can cut into the cash-back rewards you earn.

Strategize When You’d Like to Redeem Your Cash Back

To maximize your 2% cash-back rewards card, it helps to be intentional with how you choose to redeem your cash-back rewards as well as when you do so. For instance, if you tend to dig a debt hole during the holidays, use your rewards to pay for gifts and other related expenses. Or, you can put the rewards you’ve accumulated toward a statement credit, or redeem it for a gift card for your loved one.

The Takeaway

Whether a 2% cash-back credit card is right for you may depend on a few considerations, such as how often you plan to use the card, whether you may purchase higher-priced items with it, and if you plan to pay off the balance in full each month. It’s also important to understand all of the rules that apply to the credit card. Some cards have limits on how much you can earn in cash back or have annual fees that could cut into the value of your rewards.

A 2% cash-back credit card that’s used regularly, however, can provide you with a steady stream of extra cash that could benefit your budget, and you can also be strategic about how you redeem the rewards depending on your needs at a given time.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Is 2% cash back good for credit cards?

A 2% flat-rate, cash-back credit card can be a strong choice as a go-to credit card if you intend to use your card for everyday spending. Earning rewards at a flat rate and in this manner is simple and straightforward, as you don’t have to worry about keeping track of rotating categories or figuring out point conversion values.

Is 2% cash back better than points?

A 2% cash back credit card is a no-hassle, straightforward way to earn rewards. While you might earn more points on a travel card, redemption values and ways to redeem points on a travel rewards card can be more complicated. A flat-rate cash-back card can be a good choice to use as a foundation. Then, you can also open a travel card if it makes sense for your needs.

Photo credit: iStock/LaylaBird

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Despite the saying, “cash is king,” there are pros and cons to using cash over credit cards in everyday transactions. Likewise, credit cards have their own share of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to making purchases.

Here’s what you need to consider when choosing cash vs. credit cards, and when you might opt for using one method of payment over the other.

Defining Cash and Credit Cards

Cash is the legal tender — whether coins, paper bills, or other notes — that you can exchange for goods and services. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, cash is considered “ready money.” Translation: You actually own the value of the cash and can use it immediately during a transaction.

Credit cards, on the other hand, can also be used to purchase goods and services. However, you’re borrowing the funds from a third party (i.e. a bank) to make your purchase today with the promise that you’ll pay the credit card balance back later.

When to Consider Using Cash

Deciding whether to use cash vs. credit depends on your purchasing situation and preferences. Situations when paying with cash is preferred might include:

•  Buying goods or services from merchants who only accept cash

•  When your credit or income doesn’t qualify for a credit card

•  Limiting your spending to a specific amount

•  Keeping your personal information private during a transaction

•  Avoiding credit card-related fees

•  Avoiding credit card debt

You can also use cash to grow your money through an interest-bearing deposit account, instead of spending it. If you’d like to build your savings fund, you can only do so using cash.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest on a Credit Card

Benefits of Using Cash

Here are some benefits of using a credit card:

•  Since cash represents the monetary value you actually have, it makes budgeting simple. If you have $100 in cash to spend for the weekend, for instance, you’re focused on making careful decisions about how you spend that finite cash amount. After you’ve depleted your cash, you can’t make additional purchases until you have more cash.

•  Cash provides some convenience despite its additional physical bulkiness in your wallet. 

•  For merchants, the benefit of cash vs. credit cards is that they save money on credit card processing fees. To avoid this, some merchants only accept cash payments, while others offer a small discount as an incentive for customers to pay using cash.

•  Cash can also be used widely by any consumer, regardless of their credit score. This makes cash a more accessible payment method for everyday purchases. 

•  Cash also doesn’t contain any of your personal data, so if a private purchase is important to you, cash is beneficial.

Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due?

Drawbacks of Using Cash

Here, some downsides of using cash:

•  The biggest drawback to using cash vs. credit, however, is that it caps your buying power to only the amount of cash you have. Although this can be a benefit, as mentioned above, when you’re on a budget, it can restrict your ability to make larger purchases today.

For example, if your car unexpectedly needs a repair that costs $800 but you only have $500 in cash to pay upfront, you’ll have to make a tough decision. You might be forced to shop around for a cheaper car repair shop, spend time negotiating a lower price with the current mechanic, or possibly wait to complete the repair until you have the additional funds necessary. All of this can cost you extra time and can possibly impact your earnings if you rely on your car to drive to work.

•  Physical cash is harder to trace between transactions. Your personal information isn’t tied to cash bills in your pocket. This means that if you lose it or it gets stolen and it’s used by someone else, it’s harder to get back.

When You Might Consider Using a Credit Card

There are many use cases for credit cards, if you qualify for one. Some situations when a credit card might make sense include:

•  Making a larger purchase now and paying it off later

•  Breaking down a large purchase into smaller installment payments

•  Earning points, miles, or cash back on purchases using a rewards credit card

•  Unlocking additional purchase protections

•  Building your credit profile

Recommended: What Is a Credit Card Advance?

Benefits of Using a Credit Card

Using a credit card as a payment method for daily transactions offers various benefits when managed responsibly. 

•  If you don’t have enough cash for a purchase, a credit card lets you buy it now and pay it back the following month.

•  You can also choose to take out a credit card cash advance (though typically at a higher APR,or annual percentage rate, than your standard purchase APR), or even send money with a credit card.

•  With a credit card, you get to choose how you’ll repay your purchases, whether in full when your billing statement is due, or incrementally over multiple months. The caveat is that letting a balance roll over to the next month incurs interest charges.

•  Since all credit card activity is reported to the credit bureaus, on-time payments and other factors can be favorable to building your credit history and credit score. A high credit score can help you qualify for competitive interest rates and terms on other consumer credit products, like other credit cards and loans.

•  Credit cards also offer benefits and rewards that cash doesn’t provide. Rewards credit cards let you earn points or miles that you can then redeem for travel, cash back, gift cards, merchandise, special experiences, and more.

Different credit cards can also offer benefits like travel cancellation protection, warranty insurance, and more. For example, some cards feature purchase protection, which replaces an item that was lost, stolen, or damaged if it was purchased using the card.

•  Using a credit card limits your liability when unauthorized or fraudulent purchases or activity occurs on your account. Depending on when you report the unusual activity, you might only be liable for up to $50 of those charges. Some credit cards even have zero-liability policies.

Recommended: What Is a Charge Card?

Drawbacks of Using a Credit Card

Here are some downsides to using a credit card:

•  Interest charges, expressed as an APR, are one of the biggest disadvantages to using credit vs. cash. With how credit card payments work, unless you make full, on-time credit card payments each month, interest charges will likely apply to balances that roll over from one month to the next.

If you roll over a balance, you’ll not only pay more money toward your purchases, but your outstanding debt can snowball quickly. This can prove financially damaging to your everyday finances and to your credit if you fall behind on payments while amassing growing debt.

•  Certain credit cards also incur annual fees for the privilege of using them. This is money that you’ll pay out-of-pocket upfront. You can also incur other fees, such as foreign transaction fees, late payment fees, balance transfer fees, and more.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

Is Using a Debit Card the Same Thing as Using Cash?

Using a debit card is similar to using cash. In fact, one of the biggest differences between a credit card and debit card is that debit cards draw funds from the cash that you already have in your personal checking or savings account. Still, a debit card provides the convenience of swiping or tapping a card on a payment processing machine, like a credit card, to process a digital transaction between your bank and the merchant’s bank.

However, debit cards carry many of the same disadvantages as cash. For one, a debit card limits your purchasing power to the amount that’s in your checking or savings account. Additionally, debit cards don’t offer the same level of protection against unauthorized or fraudulent activity as credit cards do.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit?

Understanding Your Spending Habits Is Key to Picking Which to Use

Taking stock of your buying habits can help you decide whether cash vs. credit is a better option for you. When considering these two payment options, think about the following:

•  How much do you spend each month?

•  How much discretionary income do you have?

•  Where do you typically make purchases — online or in a brick-and-mortar store?

•  Do you tend to overspend or stay within a budget that you can afford?

•  If you’re thinking about a credit card, what’s your goal?

By answering these questions, you will likely be able to tell which payment method will be more convenient for you. For instance, if you’re trying to curb your spending, then cash might be the better bet, given how credit cards work. On the other hand, if you’re primarily an online shopper or you’re trying to build your credit history, a credit card could be worth exploring.

The Takeaway

Cash can help you contain your spending to the money you actually own. This can potentially limit the amount of debt you’d take on through credit. It can also offer convenience when it comes to shopping through cash-only merchants. The caveat is the risk you’re taking on if the cash is lost or stolen since it can be difficult to get back.

Credit cards can offer greater protection against unauthorized activity, and they can enhance your spending power. However, access to borrowed funds could get you deeper into debt if you’re unable to repay your balance on time each month. With responsible borrowing habits, however, credit cards can be a handy way to make purchases and may offer rewards, like cash back.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Which is better when traveling, cash or credit?

When traveling, credit cards are typically a safer option to carry than cash. It can be difficult and near impossible to trace and verify whether lost or stolen cash belongs to you. If a credit card is lost or stolen, the card issuer can freeze new transactions on the account, and your maximum liability for fraudulent charges can be $50 or nothing at all.

Are credit cards safer than cash?

Yes, credit cards can be safer than cash. Credit cards typically reduce your liability in the event of unauthorized or fraudulent activity.

What is the difference between cash and credit cards?

Cash is a physical currency and liquid asset that provides you with purchasing power. When you use cash toward a purchase, you don’t owe that amount to another entity. Conversely, a credit card is a physical tool that lets you increase your purchasing power using borrowed money. You’ll need to repay purchases made to your credit card, possibly plus interest charges.

Cash or credit, which is more convenient?

Whether cash or credit is more convenient is subjective. For example, while many merchants accept credit cards, some only accept cash payments. However, as more businesses accept digital payments and transition to cashless transactions, a credit card might be more convenient.

Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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