What is Credit Card?

A card issued by a financial company giving the holder an option to borrow funds, usually at point of sale. Credit cards charge interest and are primarily used for short-term financing. Interest usually begins one month after a purchase is made and borrowing limits are pre-set according to the individual's credit rating.

The plastic credit card with a magnetic strip many people carry in their wallets or purses is the end result of a complex banking process. Holders of a valid card have the authorization to purchase goods and services up to a predetermined amount, called a credit limit. The vendor receives essential information from the cardholder, the bank issuing the card actually reimburses the vendor, and eventually the cardholder repays the bank through regular monthly payments. If the entire balance is not paid in full, the issuer can legally charge interest fees on the unpaid portion.

Individual banking institutions have their own policies when it comes to credit card applications. Customers may seek either a secured or unsecured card, depending on their individual repayment histories, or credit rating. A secured card requires the applicant to deposit an amount of cash equivalent to the credit limit desired. A deposit of $1500 USD, for example, should be enough to be issued a card with a $1000 to $1500 spending limit. If the customer fails to make sufficient payments, the deposited money will be used to satisfy the debt.