A debit card lets you:
A debit card allows you to spend only the funds available in your bank account, while a credit card lets you borrow money up to a certain limit. For example, if you deposit £100 into your bank account, your debit card will allow you to spend up to that amount.
When you use your debit card to make a purchase or take out money, the funds are deducted from your bank account right away. You’ll go into an overdraft if you spend more than you have in your account, which can lead to fees.
All transactions you make using your debit card will appear on your monthly bank statement.
There are different ways you can pay by debit card.
When you use your debit card to pay for an online purchase, we may ask you to enter a one-time passcode or log on to the HSBC UK Mobile Banking app to confirm your online payment.
All debit cards come with contactless payment technology, which means you can simply tap your debit card on a card reader to pay.
If your payment is over £100, you’ll have to insert your card and enter your PIN (a 4-digit security code) instead.
Remember to keep your card safe and never share your PIN with anyone, not even the bank.
Explore: How to use your bank card
To get a debit card, you’ll first need to open a current account. Most banks will issue you a debit card as soon as you open the account and it’ll usually take a week for your card to arrive.
You can also manage your card through online and mobile banking. Once you add your card to your digital wallet, you may hear it called your ‘digital debit card’ or your ‘online debit card’.
Some children’s bank accounts come with debit cards. If you have a parent or guardian’s permission, you could get a debit card from the age of 11.
For standard current accounts, you typically need to be between 16 and 18, depending on the type of account you’d like to open. Eligibility criteria may apply.
Your debit card number is the long 16-digit number. This number is unique to your card and is used to identify your account during transactions. You need to enter this number when buying online.
The CVV, or Card Verification Value, is the 3-digit security code found on your debit card. When buying something online, you need to enter your CVV. This adds an extra layer of security by confirming that you have the debit card.
A sort code is the 6-digit number that identifies your bank and branch. It’s used for processing transactions, like payments or bank transfers.
Debit cards are accepted worldwide, allowing you to use your card abroad. However, be aware of potential transaction fees and currency conversion charges. Using your card abroad is convenient, but you may want to take some travel money for smaller purchases.
Explore: Should you use a card or travel money outside the UK?
