4 simple tips to make your credit card work for you

From contactless payments to digital wallets, the way we manage our money has vastly evolved over the last decade and so has our relationship with credit cards.

While younger generations – especially Gen-Z – are increasingly opting for alternatives, such as debit cards and digital payments like Google Wallet or Apple Pay, credit cards still have their place – if used sensibly.

Done right, a credit card isn’t just a payment tool, it’s a way to protect purchases, build your credit score and even earn rewards.

As Money Saving Expert, Martin Lewis, puts it: “I do all my spending on [credit cards]. When done right credit cards rule.”

Here’s how we recommend using your credit card to your advantage and supporting your financial wellbeing in the process.

Protection perks

Whether you’re buying a new phone or booking a getaway, using your credit card offers extra security through the Consumer Credit Act: Section 75.

This legislation means that for any eligible purchases between £100 and £30,000, your credit card provider is jointly responsible for your purchase, along with the seller.

So, should an item not arrive, isn’t what you expected, or the retailer goes bust, your credit card company will cover the cost.

In a world where online shopping continues to grow in popularity, 33% of the global population are shopping online in 2025, and the unpredictability of travel plans, this added layer of protection can bring real peace of mind.

Get rewarded for spending

Many competitive credit card providers add perks to their cards when you spend.

Cashback, points and loyalty rewards are some of the ways that companies are rewarding their customers. So, if you’re going to spend anyway, why not get something back?

If you get active through steps, take part in parkrun or work out in the gym, the Vitality American Express® Credit Card gives you cashback on everyday purchases, plus a Vitality Cashback Booster when you track your physical activity each month.*

It’s a clever way to get rewarded for your purchases and be motivated to get healthier; just one more way to make your money (and your steps) go further.

Build a healthy credit score

Your credit score is a bit like your financial CV; having a good one can unlock more, from better mortgage rates to mobile contracts.

According to American Express, there are three main credit referencing agencies in the UK: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.

Each has their own scoring and banding systems that range from ‘very poor’ to ‘excellent’.

There’s no magic number when it comes to credit scores as companies will look for different factors when reviewing credit applications.

Using a credit card and paying it off each month shows lenders positive financial traits and that you’re a responsible borrower.

Maintaining a low balance on your credit card and making timely payments are the key factors.

Even if you don’t use your card much, having (and using it wisely) can give your score a helpful nudge in the right direction.

Pay it off – automatically

This one is pretty simple, but very important.

Always aim to pay off your full balance each month otherwise any rewards or perks you earn could be cancelled out by interest charges.

To make life easier, we recommend setting up a direct debit to automatically repay your balance in full, this mitigates any risk of forgetting to pay.

It’s a smart way to stay in control of your finances and avoid any slip ups or, even, debt.

When used with intention, credit cards can be a valuable part of your financial toolkit whereby it offers protection, flexibility and even rewards.

The key is staying in control, paying off your balance and knowing when a credit card is (and isn’t) the right tool for the job.

Want to know more on boosting your financial wellbeing? Discover how to get your finances fit for your happiness in this article: Money can’t buy you happiness | Vitality | Magazine

*Qualifying plans, credit check subject to status, cashback is paid annually

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