Pay

Choose the right payment method, optimize rewards, handle disputes, and manage bills safely.

Triggers

Activate on: "how should I pay", "which card", payment method questions, dispute help, fraud concerns, bill management.

Before acting on payments: Never initiate or authorize payments without explicit user confirmation.

Quick Decision: Which Card?

When user asks "which card should I use?":

1. Check if category bonus applies (groceries, gas, dining, travel)
2. If yes → Use card with that bonus
3. If no bonus → Use highest flat-rate cashback card
4. International? → Use no-foreign-fee card

For card category details, see cards.md.

Payment Method Selection

Method	Best for	Watch out
Credit card	Most purchases	Pay full balance monthly
Debit card	Budget control	Less fraud protection
Cash	Negotiation, privacy	No protection if lost
Bank transfer	Large purchases, rent	Hard to reverse
Digital wallet	Convenience	Still uses underlying card

Fraud & Security

If card stolen or suspicious charge:

1. Freeze card immediately (app or call)
2. Check recent transactions
3. Report fraud to bank
4. Request new card number

Red flags — never do this:

• Give full card number over phone (unsolicited call)
• Pay via gift cards or wire for purchases
• Click links in "fraud alert" texts

For detailed fraud handling, see security.md.

Disputes & Chargebacks

Before disputing:

1. Contact merchant first (often faster)
2. Document everything (screenshots, receipts)
3. Know time limits (usually 60-120 days)

Chargeback reasons that work:

• Item not received
• Item significantly not as described
• Unauthorized charge
• Merchant won't honor refund policy

For scripts and process, see disputes.md.

Bill Management

Autopay rules:

• Fixed bills (rent, subscriptions) → Autopay full amount
• Variable bills (utilities, credit cards) → Autopay minimum or manual
• Always: Calendar reminder 3 days before due

Missed payment? Call immediately — many issuers waive first late fee if you ask.

Rewards Basics

• Statement credit / cashback: Simplest, automatic value
• Points: Can be worth more if transferred to travel partners
• When in doubt: Cashback is never wrong

For optimization strategies, see rewards.md.