Don't even get me started. I tell anyone who will listen that if you write checks at a grocery store, they should put a bullet in your head on the spot. It's f***ing ridiculous because you don't even get the float anymore. They electronically deduct from your account so you are basically paying with a debit card. In fact, I may get more float with a debit card. Damnit, I'm getting pissed off just typing this. I'm out.
While I agree, I try to give those elderly people writing checks a break. I'll probably still be using debit cards in 50 yrs when everyone else is simply doing a quick retina scan (or whatever) to pay. About five years ago, I was part of an SAP implementation team that was involved with setting up the banking system in the US. I work for a Norwegian company so we had a bunch of their consultants helping to guide the process. Quite a few problems came up because we still use checks in the US. The Norwegians said they got rid of checks completely a decade or two ago.
No, it's a Grumpy Old Man thing. Wasting money is akin to sin in my book. I'm not a couponaholic, but I use 'em for things I'm going to buy anyway. They stuff my mailbox with them. Junk mail is not only underwriting the Post Office, but the coupons are increasing the cash that I can invest every month. If you get annoyed at the wait in line, then go find a supermarket with more cashiers.
That crap goes straight to file 13. I do. Breaux's Mart in Lafayette. Local folks who tell you hello and ask about the family. Only 4 registers but they are always manned. And their beef is the best. I pay a little more, but that's OK. Less aggravation.
What do you do for charitable contributions? You drop cash in the collection plate and you have no record of the donation.
