Only one percent of respondents in a recent poll say they are planning on using their credit cards more in 2009.

In a recent survey of 1,004 consumers, Bankrate found that 32 percent are planning to use their credit cards less in 2009, while 15 percent do not plan to use them at all.

Relatively few people (six percent) reported that their lines of credit have actually been cut in recent months, while 41 percent said their credit limits had actually been increased. The survey also found that 40 percent are unconcerned by the prospect of having their credit card limits scaled back, possibly indicating the desire by many people to pay down existing balances in the short term.

Consumers will find it easier in the coming months to pay down some personal debts in light of new federal rules concerning the way lenders can charge interest fees and handle other billing practices.

The new regulations are due to take effect on July 1, 2010, but the Office of Thrift Supervision last week called on institutions under its supervision to "make their best efforts to conform as soon as practical" to the new rules, especially those pertaining to high-fee credit cards.

With many consumers still feeling limited access to credit and a shaky short-term cash situation, some may find that payday loans can be part of their strategy for making ends meet.

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