← Back to Zeronomics
Personal finance

What is a Debit Card?

Everything you need to know about debit cards

What is a Debit Card?

A debit card is a payment card that allows you to spend money directly from your bank or e-money account. Unlike a credit card, which lets you borrow money, a debit card only allows you to spend what you have in your account.

When you make a purchase with a debit card — whether in a shop, online, or at a contactless terminal — the money is taken directly from your account balance. This makes it easy to manage your spending and avoid debt.

The Zero debit card is a Mastercard, meaning it's accepted at millions of merchants worldwide. It comes with features like instant notifications, fraud protection through 3DS authentication, and the ability to freeze your card instantly through the app.

Zero cards are sustainably produced from 95% recycled plastic, available in three designs: Sea, Land, and Sky. You choose which card represents your commitment to the planet.