In theory, switching from debit to credit cards is simple, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. If you’ve become accustomed to paying for everything with a debit card, you might hesitate to transition to a credit card — and rightly so.

You typically can’t spend more than you have with a debit card, while a credit card can lead to spending more than you have. One seems much safer than the other.

However, credit cards can be safer because of increased fraud protection. And with rewards credit cards, you can earn points or cash back while building your credit history, potentially opening up better financial opportunities.

By adjusting your mindset and following specific guidelines, you can set yourself up for success by switching to credit from debit.

Learn how credit cards work

One of the biggest fears with credit cards is that you’ll end up in credit card debt. While that can happen, it doesn’t have to if you understand how credit cards work and adapt accordingly.

With debit cards, you’re spending your own money. With credit cards, you’re borrowing money from a lender or credit card company, up to your credit limit. However, you can adjust your mindset to view using credit as also using your own money (because you technically are in the end anyway).

If you already have a monthly budget with your debit card, you should use the same budget with a credit card. That means not viewing your available credit as free money that can be spent whenever and however you want. Instead, view it just like you would with a debit card: only spending the money that you have.

Use automatic payments

With debit cards, money is automatically taken from your checking account to pay for card purchases. With credit cards, you can set up something similar in your online account.

Related: Prepaid card vs. debit card — What’s the difference?

Most credit card issuers let you set up automatic payments to pay off your balance each month, which is exactly what you want to do to avoid high interest charges and late fees.

If you don’t pay off your credit card bill before its due date, you’ll likely be on the hook to pay interest on whatever balance is left. If you miss a credit card payment, you could hurt your credit and owe a late fee, with interest potentially accruing in the meantime.

Switch your bills and subscriptions

You might already have bills and subscriptions connected to your debit card for automatic payments. If you do, remember to switch them over to your credit card.

You can then earn credit card rewards on payments you’re already making. And you won’t have to worry about manually paying off your credit card balance if you’ve already enrolled in autopay.

Some companies might charge a fee for using a credit card. If that’s the case, see if the rewards you might earn are worth more than the fee. If not, using a debit card or bank account to make those payments probably makes the most sense.

Start small

You don’t have to jump into the deep end with credit cards. Rather than immediately applying for and using multiple cards, we recommend starting with one credit card and getting used to it. Learning about and using credit can be difficult, so you should take your time.

If you want to start slow, use your credit card to make a few purchases here and there. Then, set up your online account and link a checking or savings account as a payment method. Manually make a payment to pay off your balance to see how it works, and then set up automatic payments to cover yourself in the future.

Given enough time and practice, you should feel more comfortable and confident with credit cards. This could lead to more opportunities to improve your credit score and qualify for more rewarding credit products.

Reap the rewards (and benefits)

Credit cards can help you:

1. Build your credit: Most credit cards report your payment activity to major credit bureaus, like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. The information is added to your credit report with each credit bureau. If you always make on-time payments, you can help boost your credit score.

2. Qualify for better financial opportunities: A high credit score can help you qualify for lower interest rates on personal loans, mortgages, and auto loans. You could also be approved for more rewarding credit cards.

3. Earn rewards on everyday purchases: Switching your spending from a debit card to a rewards credit card allows you to earn cash back, points, or miles. Redemption options can include statement credits, bank deposits, and travel bookings.

4. Use card benefits: Many credit cards provide consumer protections, such as purchase protection and extended warranty coverage. In addition, certain cards could offer cell phone protection and different types of credit card travel insurance.

Pros and cons of using a debit card

Pros

• Accepted by most retailers

• Easy to use

• Can help control your spending

Cons

• Less fraud protection

• Fewer benefits

Pros and cons of using a credit card

Pros

• Accepted by most retailers

• Earn rewards

• Build credit

Cons

• Slightly more complicated to use than debit cards

• Can lead to overspending and credit card debt

Frequently asked questions about switching from a debit card to a credit card

Should I switch from a debit to a credit card?

In most situations, we recommend paying with a credit card over a debit card. Credit cards can help you build your credit history and earn valuable rewards. They also provide you with more fraud protection than many debit cards. We don’t recommend using a credit card if you have to pay hefty transaction fees.

Why is it better to use a credit card instead of debit?

Credit cards offer more fraud protection than most debit cards. Most credit cards have zero fraud liability, meaning you’re not liable for unauthorized charges. Depending on the situation, you might be on the hook with debit cards for some or all fraudulent charges. Credit cards can also build your credit and earn valuable rewards.

Is a credit card safer than a debit card?

Credit cards are safer because federal law protects consumers against unauthorized charges. The maximum you might be responsible for on a credit card is $50, though most credit card issuers provide zero fraud liability. With a debit card, you could be on the hook for $0, $50, $500, or more, depending on how quickly you report the fraudulent activity.

This article was edited by Rebecca McCracken

Editorial Disclosure: The information in this article has not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. All opinions belong solely to Yahoo Finance and are not those of any other entity. The details on financial products, including card rates and fees, are accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information. This site doesn't include all currently available offers. Credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.