What can I use instead of cash?
Isabella Turner
Updated on February 10, 2026
Alternative methods of payment are means of making a payment other than cash. Alternative methods of payment (AMOP) include payments made using a credit or debit card, loyalty program points, cryptocurrencies like bitcoin or virtual wallets like Google Pay or Apple Pay. Another popular AMOP is Venmo.
What can buyers use to buy goods without paying in cash?
Trade credit
Trade credit is a business-to-business (B2B) agreement in which a customer can purchase goods without paying cash up front, and paying the supplier at a later scheduled date. Usually, businesses that operate with trade credits will give buyers 30, 60, or 90 days to pay, with the transaction recorded through an invoice.
What can I use instead of a credit card?
Best alternatives to credit cards: a summary. Debit card.
How do you stop wanting things you can’t afford?
7 Tips to Stop Buying Things You Can’t Afford
- Understand Needs vs. Wants.
- Make a Budget. A great way to get your mind in the money-saving game is by drafting a budget.
- Put Away Your Credit Cards.
- Stop Making Excuses.
- Cut Out Some Expenses.
- Increase Your Income.
- Open a Savings Account.
How do I buy something expensive?
Here are a few shortcuts on how to decide whether to buy something expensive:
- Use more. If you want to buy something, use more of what you have before you get something else.
- Earn more. Earn more on the side to justify paying for something.
- Dedicate more. Dedicate more time doing something to justify the cost.
What apps give you real money?
With cash-back reward apps, you earn real money and gift cards for making everyday purchases through your smartphone.
- Capital One Shopping. Capital One Shopping is a moneymaking app that’s a bit different than your average reward app.
- Drop.
- Rakuten.
- Dosh.
- Ibotta.
- Fetch Rewards.
- GetUpside.
- ReceiptPal.
Where can I buy things without a credit card?
You can buy these at many stores and your local post office. Use your checking account for an electronic fund transfer. Large online retailers such as Amazon accept electronic fund transfers (EFTs). This method works by transferring money from your personal checking account to the store.
When to use a credit card instead of cash?
As long as you can pay your bill in full then a credit card is a logical and desirable alternative to cash for in-person purchases and a necessary tool for online transactions. When you want additional warranty or purchase protection. A credit card can be a great way to protect a major purchase.
Is there a way to shop on Amazon without a credit card?
Amazon Cash allows you to shop on Amazon.com without a credit or debit card. You just add cash to your Amazon Balance at participating locations. You can scan a unique barcode or use your mobile phone number to identify your account and add from $5 to $500 to use for shopping on Amazon.
Can you make a purchase without a bank account?
Not only can users make purchases without having a traditional bank account, but no personal information is required, which can be a security benefit. Many cryptocurrency users appreciate the feeling of having more autonomy over their purchases. On the other hand, cryptocurrencies are still relatively new.