[singinjeannie]

I believe the studies that have been done that say you will definitely spend more money when you use a credit card. Personally, I can't afford to spend more money!

When you are using a piece of plastic to purchase things, it's like you have a million dollars in your pocket. You can get whatever you want and find it easier to justify it. Once you buy $100 on that CC, it still feels like there is an infinite amount of money in your pocket and can go on spending.

If you use cash and you spend $100, you have 100 less dollars in your pocket. You have to watch everything you put in your basket because, god forbid you get to the checkout and don't have enough money. Really embarassing.

I have decreased unnecessary spending tremendously by using cash. I've saved far more than the 1% or 2% I'd get back from Discover by using their CC.

If one feels they have the self-control to really stay on budget while using a CC, go for it. I know from experience cash works better for me if I'm trying to make budget.

Certainly, the CC companies are also profiting from your business when you use a CC, even if you don't carry a balance, as the merchant has to take a percentage of the money you spend and send it to the CC company, instead of using it to further their own business.

I'm done with Credit Cards for good.