Generic term for all types of bank cards, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, etc.
5 different kinds of plastic money
Credit card

Cashless payment with a set spending limit
Payment takes place after the purchase
Great flexibility thanks to installment facility
Most well-known credit cards: American Express, MasterCard, Visa
Charge cards

Cashless payment without a set spending limit
Payment takes place after the purchase
No credit or installment facility
Most well-known charge cards: American Express, Diners Club
Debit card

Card is directly linked to the cardholder’s bank account
Transaction is debited immediately from bank account
No credit or installment facility
Most well-known debit cards: Maestro, Postcard
Customer card/store card (PLCC)

Card with payment and credit function
Can only be used at specific retailers
Well-known customer cards: myOne, Globus, Media Markt
Prepaid card/gift card

Card is topped up with credit before use
No credit or installment facility
Open system (American Express, Visa, MasterCard) or closed system (can only be used at specific retailers)

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