While some debit cards may offer rewards, most don't, and your debit card doesn't affect your credit history. Likewise, if your card comes with a rewards program, you may want to use your credit card to earn these benefits. The majority of credit card issuers (Visa and Mastercard) have 16 digits displayed across their cards. These numbers indicate the month and year your credit card was issued, and when it’ll expire. What do the credit card numbers on each card mean. It’s usually 16-19 digits and is unique to you.

If you want to build up your credit history, it makes sense to use your card responsibly. This is the long number on the front of your card. Most car rental companies, hotels, and resorts only accept a credit card on file versus a debit card when you travel, although Visa and Mastercard debit cards allow individuals to use their debit cards like a credit card. If you have a line of credit at your disposal, you can make an emergency payment without worrying about the money going out of your bank account. You can use debit cards at ATMs to withdraw cash. When you pay with cash, you don't go into debt, which is a risk when you use a credit card.Ĭredit cards are useful in an emergency at home and abroad. Key Takeaways Debit cards are payment cards that reduce the need to carry cash or physical checks to make purchases. Debit cards work similarly to checks in that they allow bank account holders to access the money they have in their account.

If you need cash, it is less expensive to use your debit card rather than take a cash advance on your credit card. For example, you may want to consider a credit card for larger purchases but only if you know that you can pay your bill on time. Each card has its own uses and benefits depending on the individual.

How debit card numbers work