Credit Cards as Survival Tools: From Luxury to Lifeline in Today's Economy
Ever wondered why your credit card feels less like a convenience and more like a necessity? In America today, plastic isn’t just for splurges; it’s becoming a survival tool for millions of households caught between stagnant paychecks and rising costs. This shift isn’t about poor financial choices or impulse spending. For many middle-income families, credit cards have transformed from luxury into lifeline, bridging the gap when essentials like groceries and utilities exceed what’s left in the bank account after payday. While some consumers try to manage expenses with cash by using cash-only diets or setting aside emergency cash savings, many have found themselves relying more on credit cards instead of cash to cover everyday needs. This move away from tangible cash makes it harder to track spending and maintain financial discipline. The Reality of Credit Card Reliance When your paycheck stretches thinner each month, you’re not alone. Rising costs of living, persistent inflation,...