I get cashback when I use credit

[itsrobert]

I don't care if Bestbuy, Target, etc. have to pay a percentage when I use a credit card. I also pay my balance off every month. If I use a debit card sometimes the store charges a fee. For example, Arco in california is cash only or debit w/fees, so I don't go there. Arco's gas is usually lowest price around, but when they charge for debit card use, it's not really a bargain. Rant over.

[proud2BlibKansan]

1. I don't know of any stores around here that charge fees for using a debit card

:shrug:

[dionysus]

2. usually the store pays a small fee per debit\credit transaction, never heard of it

passed to the customer.

[Warpy]

4. None here do

In fact, they're happy when we use our ATM cards instead of credit cards because the fee is lower. It's better for them also because they don't have to pay someone to add up the checks or absorb the fees when they get a bad one. The last thing a retailer wants to do is discourage an ATM payment. The only thing they like better is cash.

In fact, many retailers here scan the checks for immediate payment and hand them back when payment is received, usually for a fee slightly higher than an ATM fee. Again, they appreciate the service and don't mind the fee because it assures them of immediate payment.

While gas stations do adjust for credit card fees, nobody else does. Since gas purchases are generally small ones (unless you own some sort of pre oil baron ripoff monstrosity), it is really to your advantage to pay with cash there.

[dmallind]

3. I do likewise.

Other than bills almost everything I spend is by credit card. Exceptions for vending machines and loose change purchases. But all groceries, household stuff, gas, entertainment, gifts etc are done on a cashback card. That 1% becomes several hundreds of dollars annually, and I get an average of 45 days interest free to pay off all purchases. Neither can I lose a substantial amount of cash if my wallet is misplaced or stolen (liable for $50 only)

As long as you have the discipline (or disposible income) to only buy what you can pay off, this process is unquestionably the most prudent.

A good corollary is that this also builds up excellent credit scores, which allows you easier access to lower cost loans and mortgages.

Incidentally I know of no places other than a few yokel-owned gas stations that charge different prices around here for credit or cash, and those are easily avoided for same-price alternatives.

[Codeine]

5. Almost no business

beyond a handful of very-low-margin gas stations charge to use debit, though many places may have a fee to get cash back.

[itsrobert]

6. ARCO is a dominate Gas Station Chain in SoCal

They charge a fee to use your debit card. This is ARCO brand wide and not just limited to a few gas stations. ARCO is owned by BP.

[Codeine]

7. I stand corrected.

It's still a function of low-margin gas, but it has apparently become more widespread. Apologies. :hi: