How to Shop Without a Credit Card

Shopping without a credit card might seem like an odd concept in a society where most people prefer to pay with plastic instead of cash. While some people prefer to use cash as a budgeting tool, other people simply cannot get their hands on a credit card because of past credit mistakes. Paying for purchases without a credit card is an easy task as long as you have the available funds.

Instructions

How to Shop Without a Credit Card

1

Use cash for your purchases. Although most merchants have grown accustomed to accepting credit or debit cards for purchases, hardly any of them will balk at receiving cash for payment. Some stores will actually offer a cash discount, so be sure to ask. Just don't be surprised if salespeople look twice when you use cash to pay for a major purchase.

2

Write a check. Check beforehand to make sure that the merchant accepts personal checks because not all stores will accept checks. Make sure that you have ample identification handy because you will probably need to show at least one form of photo identification before your check will be accepted. Some stores keep a running list of approved customers who are allowed to write checks, so ask about getting your name on that list if one exists.

3

Use a debit card. Debit cards look just like traditional credit cards but they pull funds directly from your checking account instead of using a revolving credit account. This way you have the convenience of a credit card without incurring any debt. As long as your debit card has a Visa or MasterCard logo you should be able to use it for purchases anywhere credit cards are accepted.

4

If you want to make a major purchase, but you don't have credit or cash available, check to see if the merchant offers a layaway program. Layaway allows you to put an item on hold while you make payments. Sometimes the payments are interest-free, so this can certainly be an economically feasible way to get the things you want. Find out about any fees associated with layaway before you sign up.