In recent years, “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) services have surged in popularity, offering consumers the flexibility to make purchases and spread payments over time. While BNPL is touted as a convenient solution, the reality for some users has been far from rosy.
Essentially, BNPL allows shoppers to split their purchases into installments, often with minimal or no interest. For many, especially those facing financial constraints, this option provides a lifeline when cash is tight. Tia Whiteside, a 27-year-old behavioral analyst, initially saw it as a convenient way to manage expenses. However, her experience quickly turned sour as she found herself accruing debt totaling thousands of dollars.
