[brewer1516]

I understand the difference and my comment stands. Once 'credit' is acted upon it triggers debt regardless of the interest rate or the fact that the balance is paid off every month. If there is a balance -for any length of time- by definition there is debt. The potential for financial issues is increased simply by virtue that the exposure exists.
I believe you when you say that you are responsible, have discipline, and pay the debt every month. Fine. I have chosen to never again incur debt in any form. That doesn't make me better, just different.
Interesting aside: now that I have so little debt and a simplified portfolio I stopped using Quicken. It was just gross overkill for the financial transaction activity we have.

[justlurking]

I understand the difference and my comment stands. Once 'credit' is acted upon it triggers debt regardless of the interest rate or the fact that the balance is paid off every month. If there is a balance -for any length of time- by definition there is debt. The potential for financial issues is increased simply by virtue that the exposure exists.

If you are irresponsible with credit, that's true. But, not all debt is the same. Mortgage debt is not the same as installment loan debt (i.e. for a car). 30-day debt is not the same as 30+ day revolving debt. And finance company debt is considered worse than all of them. An underwriter explained the distinction to me long ago.

I believe you when you say that you are responsible, have discipline, and pay the debt every month. Fine. I have chosen to never again incur debt in any form. That doesn't make me better, just different.

If that works for you, that's fine. But, it isn't realistic for most people.

Interesting aside: now that I have so little debt and a simplified portfolio I stopped using Quicken. It was just gross overkill for the financial transaction activity we have.

I track multiple checking and savings accounts, as well as all of our investment accounts (especially capital gains/losses for tax filing), along with a small business that I run on the side. If I were to never use another credit card, I couldn't give up Quicken without hiring an accountant to do it instead.