The Differences Between Credit Cards And Debit Cards

Learn More About Debit And Credit Cards From Fidelity

Publish Date December 3, 2019

Both credit cards and debit cards are convenient forms of payment, but have you ever stopped to think about the benefits of using one over the other? As we approach the holiday shopping season, there are a few differences between credit cards and debit cards the team members at Fidelity Bank & Trust want you to keep in mind.

“The key difference between debit cards and credit cards is where the money you’re using is taken from when the actual purchase is made,” says Kathy McAllister, Chief Retail & Marketing Officer. “A debit card draws money directly from your checking account, whereas when using a credit card, you're accessing a line of credit that you are expected to pay back in full.”

Some additional key differences between debit cards and credit cards include, but are not limited to:

• Using a debit card has no effect on your credit score, while using a credit card and paying it back timely may help to increase your credit score. Not to mention, you could earn reward points for merchandise and travel when using your credit card!
• Because money draws from your personal account, Fidelity Bank & Trust protects your funds by assigning a spending limit when using your debit card.  You also cannot make a purchase for more than the balance in the account.  With a credit card, your credit limit will be based on the credit issuer, which can be increased over time as your credit history improves.
• Credit and debit cards are becoming more and more secure with advances in technology, such as encrypted tokens when using a digital wallet when storing your card information on your phone, by using Apple Wallet or Google Pay.

“We are proud to offer all customers debit cards, as well as Visa Consumer credit cards and Visa Business credit cards,” says Kathy. “If you’re interested in getting even more bang for your buck, we encourage our customers to open a Hometown Hype Checking account, allowing you to earn interest on balances up to $25,000, receive $10 in ATM fee refunds, when simply meeting the requirements of the account! Plus, discover thousands of deals with name brand and your hometown retailers.”

We know you need access to your money no matter where you are and our Fidelity Bank & Trust debit cards and credit cards make it possible for you to make transactions and acquire cash when you’re on-the-go. Visit your local Fidelity Bank & Trust branch to learn more about our complete line of card options for both retail and commercial use. You’re sure to find something that will meet your needs!