I’m willing to concede that possibly using the card is better than not using it to build credit, but for sure paying it in full each month is always the best idea. No doubt in my mind. Not only for credit, but for financial reasons. Borrowing money costs money. It’s ridiculous not to pay in full, unless you are using that money to earn greater than the percent interest you are paying. Almost impossible with credit cards.
I charge pretty much everything. When I was younger I made money doing it, because we earned such high interest in our savings accounts. Now, with interest rates today, that doesn’t really apply, I make pennies a year holding onto my money by charging, but I do get free hotel
stays, which saves me about $300—$500 a year.
Charging something and not paying it off when the bill comes is like throwing money in the street.
Good credit matters, because when you need a loan your interest rate will be lower if you have great credit. Literally, you borrow money cheaper, it’s not just about getting a loan.
I can’t see any reason why someone would be reluctant to use a credit card for some things. What’s the downside? Except for the risk of identity theft, and if you are the type of person who thinks a credit card is “free” money, and you will overspend, there is no downside, only an upside.