USING CREDIT CARDS FOR DAILY EXPENSES.

According to the American Express Everyday Spending Index, consumers welcome the option of using credit cards to pay for common expenses. Thirty-three percent report utilizing plastic more frequently today than five years ago.

"There are a significant number of Americans seeking the convenience of not having to carry cash, and consolidating their spending on one payment vehicle," notes Susan Sobbott, vice president, New Industries Development, American Express Travel Related Services Co., Inc., New York. "As a result, consumers are increasingly using credit cards to simplify their spending and get more from the money they spend through reward programs and cardmember benefits and services."

The survey found that Americans are most comfortable using plastic for home furnishings (61%), at gas stations (56%), for Internet and online services (49%), and in supermarkets (29%). Within those industries where credit cards are not as prevalent, consumers would most like to use credit cards in doctors' offices and hospitals (33%), for school and university tuition (31%), for telephone services and other monthly utilities (29%), in fast-food restaurants (26%), for charities (20%), and for bridges, tolls, and mass transit (19%).

The average person spends as much as $20,000 each year on typical household and recurring expenses, including fast-food...

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