- name
- Pay
- description
- 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?":
- Check if category bonus applies (groceries, gas, dining, travel)
- If yes → Use card with that bonus
- If no bonus → Use highest flat-rate cashback card
- 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:
- Freeze card immediately (app or call)
- Check recent transactions
- Report fraud to bank
- 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:
- Contact merchant first (often faster)
- Document everything (screenshots, receipts)
- 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.