Source: San Antonio Express-News
Credit card usage is dropping among the millennial generation. A surprising 67% of Americans between 18 and 29 years of age have no credit cards at all, according to a recent survey. That compares to only 45% of Americans between the ages of 30 and 49, and 38% of those aged 50-64 without credit cards. At 32%, even less Americans aged 65 and over are without a credit card.
The 2009 Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act probably played some part in the decrease by making credit cards difficult to obtain for those under age 21. Whopping levels of student debt also play a role, as millennials are wisely afraid to add more debt to their loan obligations.
Unemployment may be keeping some millennials from qualifying for credit, but others appear to be avoiding credit cards as a matter of principle.
Given America’s soaring credit card debt, that is a positive development… or is it? Consider some of the potential advantages of credit card use.
- Building Credit History – Without a credit history, lenders have no way to evaluate your risk when the time comes to buy a car, a home, or any other large purchase requiring a loan. You will be charged higher interest rates, as a result, until you prove your risk level is low.
- Purchase Protection – As opposed to cash purchases, credit cards offer protection against vendor fraud and stolen items. You also have means for disputing fraudulent purchases made in your name.
- Convenience – Credit cards are convenient and accepted at most vendors, whether brick and mortar or online. (Arguably, this is a negative if you have poor self-control.)
- Record of Expenses – Monthly credit card summaries provide you with…
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