5 Monthly Expenses to Put on Your Credit Card

When setting up recurring expenses like utilities, rent, subscriptions, or even healthcare payments, a common question that often comes up is, “Can you pay bills with your credit card?” The short answer is yes—and doing so strategically can offer real benefits.

Using a credit card for predictable monthly expenses isn’t just convenient—it can help you earn rewards, build credit, and stay on budget. In fact, 81% of U.S. consumers now prefer to pay with cards over cash. The key? Stick to consistency, recurring bills to avoid overspending, and keep your balance in check. Here are smart expenses to consider putting on your credit card.

Why Consider Credit Cards for Monthly Expenses?

Using a credit card for monthly expenses can be a smart financial move. It helps build your credit history, an essential component when aiming for financial goals like a mortgage or low-interest loans.

The ease of using credit cards also makes them ideal for managing expenses. With online tools and mobile apps, you can track your spending effortlessly. This capability allows you to make informed financial decisions and maintain a balanced budget. Discover what to use a credit card for to maximize your financial health.

1. Everyday Spending

Everyday purchases can be one of the easiest ways to earn consistent rewards—as long as you’re using the right credit card and paying off your balance each month. Whether a credit card is used for groceries, online shopping, gas, or dining out—all purchases can offer unlimited cash back. The Fifth Third 1.67% Cash/Back Card gives 1.67% back with no annual fee, while Preferred customers can earn 2% with the Fifth Third Preferred Cach/Back Card. Plus, rewards are easy to redeem.

2. Utilities

Using a credit card to pay monthly bills for household essentials such as electricity, gas, water, cell phone bill, and subscription services can offer several advantages. Since you really can’t do without these things, you should have a budget that covers all of them. These are non-negotiable expenses—unlike dining out or entertainment, which makes them ideal for predictable, recurring payments.

First, check if your utility providers accept credit card payments and whether they charge a fee. If a fee applies, compare it to the rewards you could earn to see if it’s worth it. Many providers allow you to set up automatic monthly payments, which can save time, help avoid late fees, and keep your credit utilization steady.

3. Insurance

Many insurance providers—including those for home, renters, auto, life insurance premiums, and even pet coverage—accept credit card payments, making it easier to manage premiums alongside your other monthly expenses. Just be sure to check whether there’s a processing fee and weigh that cost against the rewards you might earn. In some cases, insurers will waive the fee if you pay your premium in full rather than monthly or quarterly. If the math works in your favor, putting insurance payments on your credit card can offer both convenience and potential cashback.

4. Travel

Travel is one of the best times to maximize your credit card’s value—especially with the right card in your wallet. From flights and hotels to rideshares like Uber, Lyft, or car rentals, using your card can earn rewards while unlocking added perks like trip protections. The Fifth Third 1.67% Cash/Back Card offers unlimited cash back on every purchase, making it a reliable choice for both every day and travel spending. Along with the Fifth Third Bank Mastercard Guide to Benefits for World Elite Mastercard Credit Holders providing access to hotel upgrades, car rental discounts, and more. Just be sure to set a budget and pay off your balance to enjoy the benefits without interest charges tagging along.

5. Healthcare

Healthcare expenses—from routine checkups to unexpected medical bills—can be easier to manage with the right financial tools. Using a credit card for eligible services can offer short-term flexibility and pairing it with a Health Savings Account (HSA) provides long-term tax advantages, an HSA allows you to save pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses, helping you plan ahead while reducing out-of-pocket costs. For less frequent charges like specialist visits or prescriptions, using your credit card alongside an HSA can help you stay organized and earn rewards.

Avoiding Credit Card Debt

To steer clear of debt, consider these strategies:

• Only charge what you’ve already budgeted for. Stick to recurring, essential expenses you know you can pay off in full each month.
• Set up automatic payments and alerts. Automation helps you avoid late fees, while alerts keep your spending in check.
• Pay your balance in full—not just the minimum amount. Carrying a balance adds interest and cancels out the value of any rewards earned.

For more detailed information, visit our Top Credit Card FAQs page.

Ready to make the most of your credit card? Apply for a credit card with Fifth Third today and discover what to use a credit card for in your financial journey.