How to cope with no credit card

bottleofred

I think that having a credit card and using it properly can be invaluable at times. However, after getting into a mess with mine and having no credit for 6 years, you actually do adjust to life without one. Obviously if you have to book flights or buy things online, you need the cash in the bank when using the debit card, but life really does go on without credit (never thought I'd say that!). In the event of a financial emergency, they are great, but I used my cards like every day was an emergency:o. If I want something now, I tend to save for it and negotiate a cash discount before buying. It does take a bit longer, but I've no interest charges or minimum payments to worry about when I do. And for me, it's far too easy to get into a mess again.

immoral_angeluk

I manage by having tight control over my budget. My banking is checked every other day and I do weekly/monthly budgets. I use my debit card or cash for purchases and if I can't afford it I can't afford it! I use my debit card for shopping online.
I do have credit cards which I'm starting to pay off (although a car repairs has put me back in what I can pay off it. :mad:).
If you have a card for emergencies you should put money into a savings account fot unexpected bills instead.
Most people use a credit card uncontrollably use it because they can't get out of the mindset that they don't NEED a credit card. It's a luxury. If you budget sensibly you should never NEED to use one.

taplady

we've managed without one for 2 years now, I wish I'd never got one in the first place! That was before I found this lovely site and found out how to manage my money properly.

We got into a lot of debt due to DH's ill health but have managed to pay it off via an IVA so are now debt free:j

We budget properly so everything is accounted for. Start saving for next Christmas in January etc.

Lots of sub- accounts in online banking helps do that plus only getting the budgeted for money out of the bank for groceries etc and when its gone its gone!

Its a wonderful feeling when you get a bill to know that you've already got the money saved for it.:)


We now have no CC or overdraft and never will again even if the bank do keep offering to upgrade us!