A debit card is a form of payment that allows individuals to draw money from a bank account to pay for goods and services. A convenient alternative to cash, debit cards are similar to credit cards in that they’re typically the same size, contain identification numbers and are frequently swiped or inserted into machines at checkout counters. Unlike credit cards, however, the cost of the item is deducted from an account that holds a set amount of funds, rather than contributing to debt.

Debit cards can also be used at ATMs. After punching in the required PIN number – usually four to six digits – debit card holders can draw cash from their checking account in dollar increments. There may be a service fee if the ATM used is not associated with the bank that issued the debit card.