In short
- Bank transfers are simple but earn nothing and give you no extra time to pay.
- Card payments can earn rewards and give up to around 56 days before your card bill is due.
- A card only wins if you clear the balance in full every month.
Side by side
- Rewards: bank transfer earns nothing; a reward card earns Avios, points or cashback.
- Time to pay: a transfer leaves your account at once; a card gives you until your statement is due.
- Sign-up bonuses: big bills paid by card help reach welcome-bonus targets.
- Simplicity: a standing order runs itself; Omrello can schedule recurring card payments too.
- Risk: a transfer can't build debt; a card balance you don't clear costs interest.
When a card makes sense
Pay by card when you already clear your card in full, the rewards are worth more than any cost, and you'd like more time to pay. Stick with a bank transfer if you'd be tempted to carry a balance.
See five reasons to pay bills by card for more detail.
Common questions
- Is it better to pay rent by card or bank transfer?
- A card is better if it earns rewards and you clear it in full each month. Otherwise a bank transfer is safer.
- Does paying rent by credit card hurt my credit score?
- Using a large part of your limit can affect your score until you pay it off. Clearing the balance in full each month keeps that effect small.
Launching soon in the UK
Pay your next big bill by card.
Rent, school fees and council tax, paid on your card, while the person you pay gets a normal UK bank transfer. Join the waitlist and you'll be first in.
Join the waitlist