Credit card benefits can seem obvious — rewards programmes and convenience for starters. Did you know that your debit card can offer many of the same benefits as credit cards, minus the potential of getting into debt? Here are some reasons you shouldn’t neglect debit cards as payment options.

1. Debit cards are convenient.

Debit cards can generally be used anywhere Visa and MasterCard are accepted. That means your debit card can be just as convenient as a credit card. Use it to shop at your favourite stores, or even to pay bills online or over the phone.

2. Debit cards are interest-free.

If you use your credit card with the intention of paying it off immediately, you’re spending only the cash you have available anyway. So why not use your debit card instead? You’ll never have to worry about being charged interest or fees if your payment arrives late, as it’s debited to your bank account directly. You’ll also avoid the temptation of making larger interest-based purchases.

3. Debit cards can offer rewards.

Perhaps you prefer to pay with a credit card because you want the perks and rewards it provides. Some debit cards offer perks too! For example, the ANZ Debit Card Visa provides entertainment offers for its users, and the NAB Gold Banking with Visa debit card offers free overseas travel insurance just like many rewards credit cards.

4. Debit cards offer protection.

Another reason some people prefer shopping with credit cards is the protection they offer. Debit cards, like the NAB eBanking debit card, can also offer buyer protection — in their case for 90 days.

5. Debit cards give you easy access to your cash.

If you primarily carry credit cards, but you visit a small shop that only accepts cash, you would have to rely on a costly cash advance. When you use a debit card, you can access your cash from your bank account through an ATM for much less, and without any interest.

In this day and age, there’s no reason to feel like you have to turn to credit cards in order to get their benefits. Debit cards have come a long way in recent years, offering increased benefits to consumers. Review the terms on your own debit card. You may be surprised by rewards or other perks you never knew you had. Once you figure out what your bank is offering, you’ll be able to tailor your card use to make your debit cards work harder for you!