You probably know what a credit card looks like, but what exactly is the difference between that and a debit card? In fact, not only are they different things—but they also have completely different uses and aren’t interchangeable at all. Not sure where to start? Read on to find out everything you need to know about debit cards, including how to apply for one in just five steps.

What exactly is a debit card, and how can it benefit you? A debit card, also called an ATM card or check card, allows you to access your checking account without the use of cash or checks. Each time you use your debit card, you’re essentially taking money out of your checking account. When using the ATM, you swipe your debit card through the slot to pay for the transaction—the same way you would with any credit card, except that with a debit card the transaction will be immediately deducted from your checking account.

Apply For Debit Card Online

Apply for a debit card online. We’ve created an easy-to-use online tool to apply for different types of cards, depending on what you need: prepaid debit cards, secured credit cards, and unsecured credit cards. Just answer some basic questions and we’ll help you find one that meets your needs. Applying for the card doesn’t take long, and once you have it, there are plenty of things you can do with it. Needing money while away from home? Load up your prepaid card and use it as a payment method everywhere Visa is accepted, from gas stations to grocery stores!

Debit Card Visa

There are other benefits to debit cards. Many stores offer rewards for their debit card customers, including discounts, coupons, and rebates. If you use your debit card to pay for items in cash, it’s easy to track your expenses and set limits on what you spend; plus, when you make purchases with your debit card, there’s virtually no risk of identity theft because, unlike credit card numbers, debit card numbers can only be used once. Using a debit card also increases overall security in any situation where paying with cash is not an option. For example: if you have car trouble or go on vacation without checking out of your hotel room beforehand (you know who you are).

How to Use an Online Banking Service 

To use an online banking service, you’ll need to apply for an account through your bank or credit union. You may need to visit a branch in person if you want one with more features, such as check-writing privileges. Once you’ve been approved for an account, you can use it to manage your checking and savings accounts—and your debit card gives you access to electronic payments. If you get your paycheck directly deposited into your checking account, using online banking will be particularly convenient because it lets you make payments directly from that same account. Just be aware that fees vary by the bank so do some research before signing up for an account.

Debit Card Functions

There are three primary functions of debit cards: There is an ATM function, which enables you to withdraw cash from any ATM. Then there is a point-of-sale (POS) function, which allows you to purchase items with your card at retail outlets that accept debit cards. You can also pay for services over time with some stores by applying for your debit card as collateral against purchases. Finally, there’s an online shopping function in which you enter your PIN code to access funds that have been transferred from your bank account to make purchases online. The only catch here is that most merchants won’t ship until they’ve received authorization from your bank via an electronic funds transfer or check payment.

Conclusion

A debit card, also known as an ATM card or an electronic check, is a payment card that can be used to access your bank account and make purchases in stores just like any other credit card. A debit card can be used to pay for items where the store does not accept credit cards, or when you don’t want to run up your credit card bill with purchases you cannot pay off immediately. It can also be used as an alternative to cash when shopping online or by phone, or at gas stations or restaurants.