What type of plans allow consumers to pay for items over time?

The correct choice, installment credit, refers specifically to a financial arrangement that allows consumers to purchase goods or services and pay for them over a set period through scheduled payments. This type of credit typically involves a loan that is divided into smaller, manageable monthly payments, which can include interest and fees. It is commonly used for larger purchases, such as cars or appliances, where paying a lump sum upfront may not be feasible for the consumer.

Flexibility in managing expenses is important, but installment credit primarily facilitates the ability to spread the cost of a purchase over time, making it easier for consumers to budget their finances. Cash loans, though they do provide money upfront to be repaid later, do not necessarily relate to the payment model for purchasing goods or services directly, as they can be used for various purposes beyond just purchasing items. Fixed expenses refer to costs that do not change from month to month and are not typically associated with the concept of installment payments for purchases. Thus, installment credit is the clear choice that aligns with the idea of paying for items over time.