Credit cards have a bad reputation because people tend to get in trouble when they use them. We’ve even given you reasons to avoid retail credit cards. But today I’m sharing 6 reasons why credit cards can give you a money-saving advantage this holiday season.

1. Rewards, baby! Depending on the plastic in your wallet, you could be earning points or even cash back. If you shop online, make sure to use a credit card along with a cash back site like Ebates to earn even more money on your purchases.

2. Plastic protects you. Would you rather walk around a crowded mall with a wad of cash or a credit credit? Carrying a credit card is safer and if your card is lost or stolen, you won’t be liable for charges under federal law. If you report a stolen credit card more than 60 days after the fact, and charges have been made, the max amount you are liable for is $50. You have no liability if the charges are made after you report the card lost or stolen.

3. It’s cheaper to swipe than to layaway. Layaway plans are popular, but you’ll end up paying pesky service fees. Though a few stores dropped the fee this year, many are still locking you in at the initial price you agreed to pay — that means you can kiss price-matching goodbye. Using a credit card to pay for a gift is a better option as long as you pay your bill in full so you don’t accrue interest!

4. Easily price-match. Many credit cards are now promising to do the price matching for you. No more scouring through advertisements to find a lower price! Every credit card that offers this perk works a little different, but some will shop around for you and if something you’ve bought goes on sale for a cheaper price, the credit card reimburses you the difference. Others will notify you and you’ll have to take extra steps to get a refund.

5. Track purchases. No more fretting when you misplace a receipt. A credit card statement will be accepted as a stand-in. Plus, buying all your gifts using one card can help you track your purchases.

6. Use extended warranties. Buying big-ticket items? Many cards offer extended warranties to allow you to make a claim if something goes wrong with your purchase.

Not all credit cards have these benefits, but if your card does make sure to take advantage of them — that’s after you make sure to read and understand the fine print. Sticking to your holiday budget and paying your credit card bill in full will guarantee you the most savings!

What do you use to pay for holiday gifts

— cash, plastic, or gift cards?

Related reading:

• Retail Credit Cards with Perks: I Saved $49.38
• 4 Reasons to Avoid Store Credit Cards
• How do Extended Warranties on Credit Cards Work?
• Video: Good Berates BB for Credit Card Spending
• 5 Steps to Stress-Free Holiday Gift Giving (Wise Bread)

This post is brought to you by MyRatePlan, offering information on credit cards. This post was written with editorial independence and was not influenced by MyRatePlan.