Debit card or credit card: which to use when

Both cards let you pay by tap, chip or online. The difference is when the money leaves your account, and that affects cost, control and protection.

Everyday banking guide. Updated 23 September 2026. About 2 minutes to read.

How each card works

A debit card is linked directly to your current account. Every payment or withdrawal reduces your balance within a short time, which makes it easy to keep track of spending. A credit card uses a spending limit set by the bank; purchases are gathered and collected in one amount, typically once a month. Depending on the card, the bill is either paid in full or can be spread out, which then costs interest.

Which to use when

• Everyday shopping and cash: debit card. It is simple and usually cheapest.
• Hotel and car hire deposits: credit card. Many providers require one and block an amount rather than taking it.
• Online purchases: either works; both use 3-D Secure confirmation.
• Travel outside the euro area: check the foreign currency fees for each card in the price list before you go.

Accessible cards

Anadi has published information on accessible debit cards, part of a wider EU push for accessible payment services. If you need tactile or other accessibility features, ask the customer care centre what is available.

Geo-Control and blocking

Geo-Control lets you choose the regions where your card can be used and switch others off, which limits fraud if card details are copied. If a card is lost or stolen, block it at once. Use the card blocking page on the official site, or call the Austrian card blocking hotline, which is printed on the back of the card and on the bank's website. Do not search for blocking numbers on social media or in ads.

Figures, rates and conditions change. The binding information is on the official Anadi Bank website, which you should open by typing anadibank.com into your browser. Banoblog is independent and not affiliated with the bank.