I stopped paying bills with my checking account and debit card — and here’s why: ✔ Fraud protection: with debit, stolen money is tied up. With credit, it’s the bank’s money, not yours. ✔ Credit building: debit cards don’t build your credit score, credit cards do. ✔ Rewards: debit earns nothing, credit can earn cash back, miles, or points. ✔ Consumer protection: disputes, warranties, and coverage are stronger with credit. This is just another way I use debt — but I don’t have debt. My credit card