Both of you nailed why we are shifting from cash to credit and debit cards.
I have paid my bills via Check Free for over decade and recently went to my bank's electronic payment system which is probably Check Free's and it is free.
Just yesterday I renewed the license on my wife's Lexus on the computer and Ca's DMV slick new program that allowed me to use my credit card. DMV is a nightmare and paying via AAA requires driving to AAA and standing in line to write a check. It took longer to fill out the survey form to see how I felt about the new system.
Last week, we had 3 daughters of friends get married. I sat down with the computer and went to the store sites, where they were registered. My wife decided what to send them. All three received their presents and either called to say thanks or sent an email.
Our monthly Dish tv bill, Opex long distance bill and a couple of minor bills are paid automatically via a credit card. I don't even have to use the electronic bill paying system. I would love to see PG&E, SBC and our local utilities go to credit card billing and payment.
If I could live the rest of my life without messing with money and change, I would be happy.
California DMV has required payment by mail for some time. You are NOT allowed to go to DMV just to pay registration unless you really have a problem. They get your smog check thru the electronic system, you enclose a check and a copy of proof of insurance and MAIL it. The form states this clearly. Paying thru AAA I don't understand, either.