If you've recently become the proud owner of a new smartphone, then you'll need to buy accessories like a case and screen protector. As you browse around stores looking at products, you'll notice that some allow you to pay via Afterpay.
How does Afterpay work, and what are the benefits of using it to kit out your new phone?
What Is Afterpay?
Afterpay is a retail payment system that works with credit and debit cards. It enables customers to buy something — either online or in store with the help of an app — and to pay for it later.
When you purchase something and use Afterpay, your costs are split into four equal instalments. You make the first payment when you order or buy something.
Afterpay will then take the remaining three payments out of your card account on a scheduled basis. This typically happens every fortnight. There are no charges on Afterpay purchases as long as all your instalment payments go through when they are supposed to.
Why Use Afterpay?
Afterpay can be a good way to pay for something over time. This system works on a buy now and pay later basis, so you don't have to pay in full immediately to get the item you want to purchase. You benefit from staggered payments over time, but you don't have any interest charges.
This can be a lifesaver if you've just bought a new smartphone or set up a new contract that included a phone. You want to protect your phone, but you might not have as much free cash as you need, especially if you've paid upfront for the handset.
You might need to buy a new screen protector and case at the very least. Good-quality products don't come cheap, but the extra protection they give is worth the money.
In some cases, you may also need to buy other accessories. For example, if you're a cyclist, you may take your phone out with you so you can track your rides. You might need a bike mount or adaptor to fix your handset securely to your bike.
Runners may need armbands or holders. More robust and waterproof cases are also useful for any sports enthusiast.
Some phone accessory companies already offer Afterpay to their customers. So, if you want to kit your phone out now, this could be the easiest way to pay for what you need. Look options like Lifeproof Afterpay that will let you get the accessories you need now.