Debit Card

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Definition of 'Debit Card'

A debit card is a plastic card that allows you to make purchases and withdraw cash from your bank account. It is similar to a credit card, but instead of borrowing money from the card issuer, you are spending your own money.

When you use a debit card, the money is immediately deducted from your bank account. This means that you cannot spend more money than you have in your account. Debit cards are often linked to checking accounts, but they can also be linked to savings accounts or other types of accounts.

There are several advantages to using a debit card. First, it is a safe and convenient way to pay for purchases. You do not have to carry around cash, and you do not have to worry about your card being stolen. Second, debit cards offer fraud protection. If your card is lost or stolen, you can report it to your bank and they will cancel the card and issue you a new one. Third, debit cards can help you to track your spending. When you use a debit card, the transactions are automatically recorded in your bank account statement. This makes it easy to see where your money is going and to stay on top of your budget.

There are also some disadvantages to using a debit card. First, you may not be able to get the same rewards as you would with a credit card. For example, credit cards often offer cash back or points that can be redeemed for travel or other rewards. Second, if you do not have enough money in your account to cover a purchase, your card may be declined. This can be embarrassing and inconvenient. Third, debit cards are not as widely accepted as credit cards. Some merchants may not accept debit cards, or they may only accept them for purchases of a certain size.

Overall, debit cards are a safe and convenient way to pay for purchases. They offer fraud protection and can help you to track your spending. However, you may not be able to get the same rewards as you would with a credit card, and your card may be declined if you do not have enough money in your account.

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