What's the Safest Way to Pay for Holiday Shopping? Credit Cards, Experts Say

Plus, I can earn rewards on my purchases.

I wish I could say that’s where the trouble with debit cards ends.

If someone has your debit information, they could steal money from a connected checking account.

The money in your account could be tied up while the issue is resolved.

But your losses are limited if your credit card is stolen.

Cash doesn’t have any protection or rewards at all.

If you drop a wad of money or someone steals your cash, you are completely out of luck.

What’s the danger of using a credit card for holiday shopping?

Any balances you don’t pay off by your next billing cycle will accrue interest.

Interest charges could wipe out any value you’d see from rewards.

Racking up charges on your credit card can also potentially hurt your credit score.

That way, your balance won’t spiral without you realizing what’s happening.

In terms of rewards, Chambers recommended redeeming cash back and other rewards to cover holiday spending.