An American Express Co. survey found that 33% of consumers use plastic more than they did five years ago.
Citing convenience, 35% of consumers in American Express' "Everyday Spending Index" said they use credit and charge cards for some or all everyday expenses. An additional 14% said they would use cards to pay for most household expenses, if given the choice.
In the national poll of 800 consumers, the average respondent spent $20,000 a year on typical household and recurring expenses like fast-food restaurant meals, doctors' visits, cable television, groceries, charitable donations, and monthly utilities.
American Express found consumers most comfortable using plastic in: home furnishings (61%), gas stations (56%), Internet and on-line services (49%), and supermarkets (29%).