credit and debit

     Too many people don't understand the difference between credit cards and debit cards. A debit card lets you access the money in your bank account--money you have put in the bank, or which your employer has sent directly to the bank instead of paying you by check. This is called direct deposit. It is just a paycheck, sent automatically to the bank. Debit cards work like checks--if you don't have any money in your account, they are no good.
     Using a credit card is different. A credit card allows you to borrow money to make a purchase. If you pay the bill every month, you may pay little or no interest. If you permit the account to "revolve"--by making only the minimum payment--you may wind up paying substantial interest. You can get what you want without waiting until you have the money, but there's a fee, and it can be expensive.