In among the many different options to pay by means of plastic money, people often end up being confused on debit and co-branded prepaid cards. They are way too similar both in their cancellation policy as well as their usage for most of them to be really sure of which one they should choose from. So, you may exploit them worldwide and they may be cancelled when stolen or lost with ease. However, their logos make them distinct. This article addresses those concerns to make selection for you easier.

Issuance of Credit. As prepaid cards are a means of using one’s own money, no credit is issued with the use of this card. You can simply load your money and use it via a co-branded prepaid card, all over the world. On the other hand, although debit cards allow bank customer to withdraw amounts from their own accounts, there may be an overdraft facility provided by some banks.

Credit Check for Card Eligibility. In case of prepaid cards, no credit check is performed before issuing a card to the customer. However, in case of debit cards, banks will usually perform a credit check to ensure the credit score and rating of the account holder before issuing a card to them.

Card Fee. One of the best things about prepaid credit cards (especially the co-brand prepaid cards) is that they require only a minimum maintenance or opening premium while debit cards cater to a relatively different scenario. Their fee is in accordance with the bank account and will also include the costs of penalty for having overdrafts long overdue.

Are There Any Card Charges? A small maintenance or opening fee is usually charged in case of prepaid credit cards, especially for co-branded prepaid cards. While in case of debit cards, a certain fee is charged applicable to the bank account and penalty fee is also charged in case of overdue overdrafts.

Customer Information. The issuance of a debit card requires the complete background details and information, regarding the bank customer. On the other hand, prepaid cards can easily be issued with very little and basic information about the customer.

Using ATMs. Not all of the prepaid cards empower a bank customer to be able to withdraw their money through an ATM whereas debit cards do facilitate their users with this benefit.

Overall, debit and prepaid cards both have their differences but are similar in their usage and cancellation policy. This means that both cards can be used anywhere in the world, depending upon the logos that are present on them. Both of these cards can also be cancelled with ease if lost or stolen.

Debit cards are a good option for those individuals who already have bank accounts and will not be tempted to reach their expenditure limits. However, for teenagers who do not have bank accounts and will be tempted to take loan, co-branded prepaid cards are the best option. So make the right decision today in accordance to your requirements!