<prompt> Human: After reading a couple of interesting links here, I thought that this would be the best place to ask. I was just browsing Amazon and noticed their own Visa credit card with some sign-up bonuses and cash back deals. I never really put much thought into credit cards, as our finance class in high school basically told us they had some uses, but it was best to avoid them and use a debit card. So far I use Bank of America and have a debit card with them. Would never getting a credit card affect me? I currently am in my first year of college, and rarely spend money as I am trying to be a frugal as possible. I only purchase school supplies or a cheap game on steam once in a while. Therefore, would it be wise to apply for a credit card such as the Amazon credit card? Also, can I set up a system where money from my debt card immediately pays off my credit card so I wont ever overdraft? I plan to only use it for amazon purchases and maybe for eating out once in a blue moon since you get 3 back for Amazon purchases and 2 for restaurants.My parents never really talked about financial things to me, so I have no idea if a credit score is important for someone like me now.  <response>: Definitely get a credit card instead of using your debit card for everyday purchases. With all of the security breaches that have happened recently, it is an excellent idea to have an extra layer of security protecting your money, especially one that is a multi-billion dollar company that has a vested interest in keeping your business. I am not going to say your high school finance course was poorly taught, but it definitely appears that the teacher neglected many aspects of having and using a credit card.There are really only two things you need to know when it comes to properly using a credit card:1. Only use the card for planned expenses ie. treat it as cash2. Pay the statement balance in full before the statement due date each month.Thats it. If you do those two things, you will be building up a solid history of payments and improving your credit without paying a dime in interest.As for the benefits, with a credit card you get: Fraud and theft protection - you are not responsible for fraudulent charges, will not have to pay to get a replacement card if it is stolen, and have a buffer protecting your own money unlike paying with a debit card which pulls directly from your account Rewards programs - you can earn rewards on money that you would be spending anyway Interest-free grace period - you can earn a bit of interest on the money that you have already spent and smooth out your monthly budget by setting up your statement closing and due date to coincide with your pay schedule Consumer protections, additional warranties, travel services, affiliate discounts, and other fringe benefits offered by the credit card companies for having their cardThe downsides to credit card use only come up when you break one or both of the two rules. These include: High interest charges although over-drafting your account with your debit card typically comes with hefty fees too Damage to your credit score if you fail to make your payments on timeFor suggestions on what card you should get, check out NerdWallet. With a slim credit history and low income, it is not likely that you will qualify for cards with great rewards yet, but there are plenty of student cards or secured cards that you can try for to start out. 