Common Forms Of Online Payments

"I am a cash-strapped college student and now I can't pay for that item online." "I don't have a credit card. What are my payment options?" "Is there an app that can help me pay using my phone?" Have you ever found yourself in one of these situations? That doesn't matter to us because we know how to help.

First, take a look at our article about what the different types of payments methods are. Then, pay close attention to the five common ways people pay online.

1. Credit card payment – This is one of the most popular forms of payments for online shopping. It is also one of the least expensive ways to do so as well, because you might already have a credit card in your wallet. But with all that convenience, there will be a price to pay- higher prices due to credit card fees. The alternative is using a debit card which is linked to your checking account, however this kind of payment usually takes longer than credit cards; up to a week or more for some transactions.

2. PayPal – This is a quick and secure way to pay online that does not affect your credit score. You can have your money transferred to bank accounts or a debit card. Some say it is more expensive than credit cards, but this can be avoided through knowing the right tricks of the trade, like using referrals and discounts when you sign up for PayPal.

3. Mobile apps – There are a lot of mobile payment applications that have gained popularity in recent years, such as Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and many more. These mobile apps make it easier for people to shop without having to carry cash or credit cards around with them everywhere they go.

4. E-check – An e-check is an electronic version of a traditional check that allows you to pay online. An e-check can be used with any online store, but not with an offline merchant. To use one, you must add checking account information to your online shopping account. You basically open a drawer in your bank and take out the money equivalent to what you wish to spend on that specific item or transaction. It is possible for the money still not to hit your bank for up to three days after it leaves your account, however, and this might be a disadvantage if you are expecting other deposits or have bills that are due in the meantime.

5. Gift cards – Buying gift cards for the store that you want to shop at is a good way to pay online when you do not have any other options. You can buy gift cards from retailers online and then use them to buy whatever you want, knowing that the money has already been paid for. Buying gift cards is also a good way to teach children how to shop online and make smart decisions about budgeting.

Depending on what exactly it is that you are looking for in your shopping experience, one or more of these payment methods above might be your best bet.

Conclusion: Are you a college student who is looking for more information on how to pay for items? Great! You have come to the right place. Check out some of our other articles that are about this topic and then make sure to check back regularly for new articles that will help you in your quest to find the best payment method possible.

David Molina-Perez, is a third-year student at Florida College. He's a part of the Social Media Marketing Club and is currently working on his own personal blog. His passion lies in technology, business, and anything creative.