New research from Saga credit cards has revealed that the over 50s are so aware of the effect of the current economy on retailers, that they are taking steps to ensure they do not lose out if businesses they have shopped at go bust before they receive their purchases.

Three in five over 50s (58 per cent) said they are now using their credit cards to ensure their purchases are protected in case a shop goes under because they know their credit card company will allow them to claim a refund if the purchase is over £100.

The proportion of the population as a whole that are now shopping using their credit cards in order to protect themselves financially is slightly lower – 46 per cent – which, says Saga, shows that the older generation is “both more financially aware and more eager to protect their purchases.”

“The credit crunch has affected people in a number of ways and as a result they have become more wary; choosing brands they trust and using credit cards as they provide added protection in uncertain times,” explained Andrew Goodsell, Saga Group chief executive.

Saga found that other reasons why people are using credit cards as opposed to cash and other cards include the fact that they get cashback and rewards every time they spend on them (32 per cent) and because they help them manage their money (24%).

Almost half of the population as a whole (46 per cent) and more than half of the over 50s say it is simply because it is easier than carrying cash.

Saga’s research also found that throughout 2008, holidays, eating out and supermarket shopping were by far and wide the most regular credit card purchases for the over 50s, which reveals that many of the Saga generation are still finding both the time and money for luxuries.

According to the research, Tesco and Sainsbury’s came out as the most popular places for this age group to shop – there was no sign as yet that the over 50s are being forced to turn to the discount food retailers for their weekly shop.

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© Fair Investment Company Ltd