What is the primary function of a debit card?

The primary function of a debit card is to withdraw money from a checking account. When a consumer uses a debit card for a transaction, the funds are directly taken from their checking account balance, allowing for immediate payment without the need to borrow money or incur debt. This feature helps individuals manage their finances more effectively since they can only spend what they have available in their account, encouraging responsible financial behavior. Debit cards provide a convenient way to access cash and make purchases while keeping expenditures within one's available funds.