International Research Journal of Education and Technology

This study examines factors impacting credit card selection and usage preference among consumers in the Indian retail context. The research identifies major economic, technological, service-related, behavioural and demographic factors influencing these decisions. A quantitative, descriptive-cum- analytical research design was adopted using a structured closed-ended questionnaire administered to 259 respondents who were either current credit card users or aware of credit cards.

The study covered annual fee, interest burden, rewards, EMI flexibility, fraud protection, digital usability, app-based monitoring, financial literacy and demographic variables. Findings reveal that respondents display a moderate and practical orientation toward credit cards rather than a prestige- driven one. EMI or instalment flexibility, fraud protection, low annual fee, contactless convenience and app-based monitoring emerged as the most meaningful practical influences. Repayment discipline appeared weaker, with a considerable proportion reporting minimum-due or partial-payment behaviour. The study also found limited but significant associations between usage behaviour and gender, residence and financial literacy. Overall, credit card behaviour is shaped more by functional utility, digital convenience, security perception and repayment psychology than by symbolic appeal alone.