Is it permissible to eat from food purchased with a credit card that carries an usurious condition, knowing that I pay off the amounts within the grace period to avoid usurious interest, and that this card is an urgent necessity in the country of residence to build a credit history? Is it permissible to benefit from the points and features of this card? Is it permissible to obtain more than one card to benefit from its features?

The Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America (AMJA) affirmed that credit cards have become a necessity in modern times and divided them into two types: 1. Secured credit cards: These are Islamically permissible because the payment is drawn from the cardholder's balance. 2. Unsecured credit cards: These include three types: Cards issued for a known fee and without interest on late payments: These are Islamically permissible. Interest-bearing (riba-based) credit cards: These are Islamically prohibited. Cards that offer a specific grace period without interest, then charge interest upon late payment: These are not permissible due to containing a corrupt condition. However, their use is permitted for those in dire need when no alternative is available, provided there is a firm intention to repay before any interest accrues.

Therefore, if you are compelled to acquire cards of the third type, there is no sin upon you, provided you firmly intend to repay the amounts before any usurious interest is imposed. There is no harm in benefiting from what you purchase with it, whether it be food, clothing, or services.