10 Things You Should Never Put on a Credit Card (Unless It’s an Emergency)

We’ve all heard the classic advice: use your credit card wisely, pay off your balance every month, and never spend more than you can afford. But let’s be real; life isn’t always that straightforward. Sometimes, emergencies strike, and your only lifeline is that plastic rectangle tucked in your wallet. While credit cards are a powerful financial tool, there are certain expenses that should almost never touch your credit line, unless, of course, you’re in a genuine emergency.

Here are the top 10 things you should avoid charging to your credit card, along with why and when it might be okay to break the rules.

1. Rent or Mortgage Payments

Why you shouldn’t: Most landlords and mortgage companies don’t accept credit cards directly. If you go through a third-party processor, you’ll often face hefty fees, sometimes up to 3% of your payment. That means a $1,000 rent payment could cost you $30 extra, just for the privilege of using your card. On top of that, you’ll be paying interest if you carry a balance, which can quickly spiral out of control.

When it’s okay: If you’re facing eviction or foreclosure and have absolutely no other options, using your credit card to cover a payment might be your only way to keep a roof over your head; just make sure you have a plan to pay it off as soon as possible.

2. Taxes

Why you shouldn’t: Paying taxes with a credit card means paying a processing fee (usually 1.87% to 1.98%) to third-party processors. That’s on top of any credit card interest if you carry a balance. If you’re only making minimum payments, you could be paying off your tax bill for years, and at a much higher cost than if you’d set up a payment plan with the IRS.

When it’s okay: If you’re in a pinch and need to pay a tax bill to avoid penalties or legal trouble, charging it to your card might be your only option. Just know you’ll pay extra for the convenience.

3. Medical Bills

Why you shouldn’t: Medical bills can be huge, and putting them on your credit card means you’ll be charged interest from day one. Many hospitals and clinics offer interest-free payment plans if you ask, which is almost always a better deal than credit card debt.

When it’s okay: If you need urgent care and can’t get approved for a payment plan, or if your provider insists on upfront payment, your credit card can be a lifesaver. Just make sure you have a plan to pay off the balance quickly.

4. Cash Advances

Why you shouldn’t: Cash advances come with higher interest rates than regular purchases, and they start accruing interest immediately, with no grace period. Plus, there’s often a flat fee or percentage charge for each withdrawal.

When it’s okay: If you’re in a true cash-only emergency and have no other way to access funds, a cash advance might be your only option. Just be aware of the high cost and pay it off as soon as possible.

5. College Tuition

Why you shouldn’t: Many schools charge a processing fee for credit card payments (often 2–3%), and the interest you’ll pay if you carry a balance can make tuition even more expensive. If you’re struggling to pay, look into student loans or payment plans instead.

When it’s okay: If you’re about to be dropped from classes and have no other way to pay, a credit card might help you stay enrolled, but only as a last resort.

6. Money Orders, Wire Transfers, and Peer-to-Peer Payments

Why you shouldn’t: These transactions are often treated as cash advances, meaning higher fees and interest rates. They’re also a favorite target for scammers, which can put you at risk for fraud.

When it’s okay: If you need to send money urgently and have no other options, it might be worth the extra cost, but proceed with caution.

7. Cryptocurrency Purchases

Why you shouldn’t: Buying crypto with a credit card is usually treated as a cash advance, with all the associated fees and high interest. Plus, the volatile nature of cryptocurrency means you could lose money on your investment and still owe your credit card bill.

When it’s okay: Honestly, there’s almost never a good reason to buy crypto with a credit card—unless you’re making a very small, calculated investment as part of a broader financial strategy (and even then, it’s risky).

8. Household Bills and Everyday Essentials

Why you shouldn’t: While it’s tempting to put groceries, utilities, or other necessities on your credit card, doing so regularly can lead to a cycle of debt, especially if you’re only making minimum payments. Utility companies may also charge a fee for credit card payments, which adds to your costs.

When it’s okay: If you’re temporarily short on cash and need to keep the lights on or food on the table, your credit card can be a safety net. Just make sure you have a plan to pay it off before interest charges pile up.

9. Small Indulgences and Vacations

Why you shouldn’t: Charging non-essential purchases like a weekend getaway or a shopping spree can quickly add up, especially if you don’t pay off the balance right away. The interest and fees can turn a fun splurge into a financial burden.

When it’s okay: If you’re using a card with a 0% introductory APR and you’re confident you can pay it offbefore the promotional period ends, you might be able to justify a small indulgence, but it’s still risky.

10. Down Payments on Big Purchases

Why you shouldn’t: Putting a down payment on a car, house, or other major purchase on your credit card is almost always a bad idea. You’ll likely face high fees, and if you can’t pay it off right away, the interest will make your purchase much more expensive.

When it’s okay: If you’re in a unique situation where you need to make a down payment immediately and have no other options, your credit card might be a last resort—but you’ll pay a premium for the convenience.

The Fine Print: When It’s Okay to Break the Rules

Credit cards are designed for convenience, not as a substitute for savings. But sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and your only option is to reach for your card. If you find yourself in a true emergency—like a medical crisis, sudden job loss, or a natural disaster—using your credit card can be a smart, temporary solution.

Just remember: Pay off the balance as soon as possible. Interest rates on credit cards are notoriously high, and carrying a balance can quickly become unmanageable.

Avoid using your card for anything you can’t afford to pay off. If you’re charging groceries because you’re out of work, that’s one thing. If you’re charging a vacation because you want to get away, that’s another.

Consider calling your credit card issuer. In a crisis, they may be willing to lower your interest rate or offer a payment plan.

Have a plan. Even if you have to break the rules, make sure you have a strategy for paying off your debt as quickly as possible.

The Bottom Line

Credit cards are a powerful tool, but they’re not a substitute for good financial planning. Avoid putting these 10 things on your card unless you’re truly in an emergency. And if you do find yourself in a tough spot, use your card wisely—and have a plan to get out of debt as soon as you can.

Because at the end of the day, the best way to use your credit card is to treat it like a safety net—not a hammock.

You may want to also read: The Average Age of Retirement Around The World: 20 Countries From Youngest To Oldest and  9 Of The Most Regretted Purchases People Still Regularly Make

Join Us

Join us on this empowering journey as we explore, celebrate, and elevate “her story.” The Queen Zone is not just a platform; it’s a community where women from all walks of life can come together, share their experiences, and inspire one another. Welcome to a space where the female experience takes center stage. Sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing, Queen!