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Debit and credit cards are extremely similar, they look the same, and can be used in the same way, it is the actual funding side of these cards where the difference comes into play:

1. A Debit card is linked straight to your checking account, and therefore you need to have the money avialable in your account before you can use it for payment. A Credit card is linked to a Credit account with your bank, where they give you money you don't have, and therefore you can make a purchase, even if you do not have a positive balance on a credit card.

2. As you have the funds in your account for a Debit card, you do not pay interest on your purchases, whereas with a credit card you do. However if you have an overdraft facility on your checking account, you may pay interest if you are over drawn.

3. Most of the time with Credit cards, everytime you spend you earn some form of rewards points. Most banks however do not issue these rewards on a Debit card.

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Q: Describe how debit and credit cards are similar and list the three main differences?
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Who is charged for misusing credit cards?

People who misuse credit cards are charged for misusing credit cards.


What is a debit card used for?

A debit card is similar to a credit card, as they typically will contain a Visa, Mastercard or American Express logo. There are two typical types of non-credit cards: gifts cards (which do not have your name on the card) or debit cards (with your name). Debit cards are issued by a bank and generally have conditions for use and monthly maintenance fees. Debit cards can be used in many of the same ways a credit card can: in-person purchases, online purchases, ATM withdrawal (check your card). The difference between a credit and debit card is that debit cards traditionally do not affect your credit rating, whereas credit cards do.


How are debit and credit cards similar?

Their only similarity is the manner in which they are used at the point of sale. If you present a Debit card, the amount of sale is immediately deducted from your bank account. If you present a Credit card, the amount of sale is added to your credit account and then you are billed for payment monthly at a later date.


Do I need to report stolen credit cards to all 3 credit bureaus?

You will not need to report your personal credit cards stolen to the credit bureau. Once you have reported your cards stolen to the credit card companies they are with, they will take care of the rest for you.


How many different types of credit cards?

I think there are about 50 (or more) different types of credit cards in the world.

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People who misuse credit cards are charged for misusing credit cards.


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