Desert Living Now
Financial Technology Expert Explains Benefits of Buy Now Pay Later on Desert Living
PALM SPRINGS, California — On today's episode of Desert Living, millions of Americans are turning to Buy Now Pay Later services, but many consumers still do not fully understand how the financial tool operates. Miranda Margowski, the head of communications for the Financial Technology Association, joined the show to discuss a new national campaign aimed at showing how the tool can support smarter spending habits.
Margowski explained that Buy Now Pay Later is a flexible, low-cost method to split the cost of a purchase into four or fewer installments, which are typically paid back over a span of six to eight weeks. Unlike traditional credit cards, these services offer zero to low interest, feature no revolving balances, do not charge interest on top of interest, and have no hidden fees. The average purchase price using the service sits around 135 dollars. Furthermore, a built-in safety guard immediately pauses a user's account if they miss a payment, preventing them from accumulating unmanageable debt.
Recent data released by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reveals that 96 percent of these loans are successfully paid back in full and on time. Margowsky noted this statistic proves consumers are utilizing the programs responsibly as a manageable alternative to high-interest credit cards. The payment structure is designed for transparency, requiring 25 percent of the purchase price upfront at the point of sale, followed by three equal bi-weekly installments that users can easily track through an online portal or mobile app.
The service is also providing a significant economic boost to local Main Street retailers. While large big-box chains routinely offer installment options at checkout, incorporating Buy Now Pay Later allows small, independent businesses to stay competitive and meet their customers' preferred payment methods. Those looking for more resources, facts, and data regarding these programs can find information by visiting the campaign website at buynowpayyourway.com.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 25, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Tim O’Brien introduces Game 2 as the Coachella Valley Firebirds take on the San Diego Gulls! #CVFirebirds #FirebirdsHockey #SanDiegoGulls #AHL #hockeynight
Hurricane Isaias is bringing worsening conditions to Gulf Shores, Alabama, with strong tropical storm-force winds and heavy rain. CNN’s Isabel Rosales describes the intense conditions as the storm approaches. #HurricaneIsaias #SevereWeather #Alabama
Concussion protocol? “You just rub some dirt on it.” 😭🛼 Have you been to a roller derby game yet? Let us know below 👇 #rogginreport #coachellavalley #rollerderby #localsports #nbcpalmsprings
New music Friday! Sheryl Crow drops her 12th studio album, “Pick You Up,” while Greta Van Fleet returns with “Palace for the People.” Plus, British indie band The Lilacs release their debut album, “Keeping Up With The Joneses.” Which new release are you listening to first?
🐕 Desert Hot Springs is cutting ties with a dog rescue in Washington state after an animal cruelty investigation involving nearly 30 dogs. The city suspended its partnership with Pittie Project PNW yesterday. Detectives were called to the property on Monday where they found dogs injured, underweight and living in filthy conditions without enough food or water. Investigators discovered that the property's owner, 38-year-old Ashley Georgia, was solely responsible for their care. All of the dogs were removed and are now getting medical attention.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?