What is the difference between a credit card and a debit card?

Credit cards and debit cards are both forms of electronic payment that are widely accepted by retailers. However, there are some key differences between them. Credit cards are issued by financial institutions and allow the cardholder to pay for goods and services on credit, meaning that the cardholder does not have to pay the full amount right away. The cardholder is then responsible for paying back the full amount, plus any interest and fees that have been charged. In Illinois, the Credit Card Responsibility and Disclosure Act regulates the terms and conditions of credit card agreements in order to protect consumers. Debit cards, on the other hand, are linked directly to a bank account and allow the cardholder to access the funds in their account to pay for goods and services. When a debit card is used at a retailer, the funds are immediately withdrawn from the cardholder’s bank account. In Illinois, the Electronic Funds Transfer Act regulates the use of debit cards to protect consumers and their financial information. In summary, the main difference between credit and debit cards is that credit cards allow the cardholder to access funds that are not immediately available, while debit cards allow cardholders to access the funds that are already in their bank account.

Related FAQs

What are the late payment fees for credit cards?
What are the best ways to build credit?
What are the penalties for violating the Truth in Lending Act?
What are the consequences of not paying my credit card bill on time?
What is a grace period for credit card payments?
What is the average APR on credit cards?
What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?
What is a zero liability policy for credit card fraud?
Can I use a credit card to pay bills?
What is a cash advance APR?

Related Blog Posts

The Basics of Credit Card Law: What You Need to Know - July 31, 2023
The Pros and Cons of Credit Card Use - August 7, 2023
What Is the CARD Act and How Does It Impact You? - August 14, 2023
5 Tips for Understanding Credit Card Law - August 21, 2023
Understanding the FDCPA and Its Impact on Credit Card Law - August 28, 2023