Most people consider credit cards to be a black hole that will eventually lead to a debt they can no longer repay. However, many things regarding credit cards have changed in the past decade and these days they are actually a great way of saving money. Many companies and banks now offer special cards or have special offers that will help you spend less. For instance, you can get a special discount at certain hotel chains, or you can get a small refund on airport services. Some retail businesses like Amazon even have their own credit card plan with a cashback system in place that will lower your monthly expenses. There are several ways you can benefit from using a credit card as long as you take all your options into consideration. So let’s take a look at how you can cut costs in your weekly budget by using a credit card.

1. Interest-free Plans

If you buy tech every year like computer parts, laptops, phones, anything electronic really, then you can benefit from interest-free credit plans. Most major tech businesses will offer you a yearly payment plan with zero interest. This way you can manage your expenses by paying a monthly fee instead of the entire sum all at once, and by having an interest-free plan you will pay the original price of the purchase.

2. Save on Groceries and Gas

Credit cards are no longer just for big purchases. Most retail stores will offer a small discount if you pay with a certain credit card. Many gas stations have also joined with discounts or a cashback system every time you pay for a refill by using a credit card. Check out your local area and see what kind of discounts you get for your daily shopping and then decided if these discounts outweigh the credit card interest rate. In most cases, you save more from the discounts even if you have a relatively high-interest rate.

3. Cashback

Most credit card companies nowadays include a cashback system that will help you save money by using their credit card on all your shopping and purchases. These companies will reimburse part of your payment if you’re monthly credit card use exceeds $500 or $1000, depending on the credit card plan. Take a look at all your monthly expenses and decided if you can take advantage of a credit card with a cashback system in place. If your expenses exceed the minimum limit required to benefit from such a program, then search for the card with the best cashback rate.

4. All-in-One

Last but not least, you can find credit cards that come with all the benefits from above into one single plan. Most credit card companies already have a cashback system in place as long as you opt for it, and you can always make sure to choose the credit plan which also includes discounts from the stores where you do all your shopping.