How can I tell if I have a credit card or a debit card?

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In France, the credit card is the most widely used payment method.

However, this is a misuse of language, as you need to distinguish between credit card and debit card.

Without going into too much detail, debit cards are those that directly deduct money from your account, while credit cards are those that charge you later (e.g., at the beginning of each month).

Distinguishing between a credit card and a debit card isn’t a big deal, except in certain cases!

For example, some car rental agencies abroad require you to have a credit card; otherwise, you’ll be forced to take out an expensive insurance policy.

To know if you have a credit card or a debit card, simply examine your card closely. Since 2016, banks must clearly state whether it’s “CREDIT” or “DEBIT”.

However, the notation is very discreet; here are a few examples.

Take a one-week Boursorama Ultim card is a debit card.