BUDGETING
Buy Now, Regret Later
Hey! It’s Steve from Feasible Creative — your weekly shortcut to smarter money moves.
That sneaky ‘Buy Now, Pay Later!’ button could wreck your budget without you even realizing it:
At a quick glance, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) seems innocent. In reality, it’s not, which is why it’s such a hot topic in personal finance.
Today, let’s dive into the deceptive world of BNPL:
Buy Now, Pay Later Explained
BNPL apps market themselves as a trendy way to borrow money interest-free for everyday purchases like clothing, electronics, and even groceries. To the average consumer, this seems like a safe alternative to credit card debt.
However, when missed payments and late fees kick in, you could end up paying just as much as credit card interest.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
In 2025, over 91 million American consumers are expected to use BNPL (an increase of 6% vs. 2024). What’s driving this surge?:
A staggering, 37.2% of BNPL users cite “convenience” as their main reason for using. In short, these apps have successfully made debt splitting feel like a normal lifestyle choice.
Here’s the problem: convenience erodes financial awareness.
These consistent purchase splits trick your brain into thinking you’ve freed up money. This can cause you to spend even more, then once those BNPL payments hit, your budget is blown.
The Bottom Line
BNPL isn’t inherently evil, but it’s designed to encourage thoughtless spending rather than strategic budgeting. Before you click that tempting button, ask yourself: “Is it really worth the risk?”
What are your thoughts on BNPL?
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Talk Soon,
Steve
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Disclaimer: The content provided in this newsletter is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice. Please consult with a financial advisor before making any financial decisions. This newsletter may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.