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The Daily Insight Hub

What is the difference between credit cards issued by banks and those issued by stores?

Author

Sarah Martinez

Updated on February 05, 2026

Store Cards vs. Credit Cards. Store cards are credit cards that typically can only be used at specific stores. The main difference between a store card and a credit card is that where a store card can only be used at a specific store, a credit card can be used anywhere that credit cards are accepted.

What is the main difference between individual store credit cards and major bank credit cards?

Regular interest: Store cards have higher regular APRs than general-purpose credit cards, on average. If you carry a balance, the store card’s higher APR may cancel out any discounts or rewards earned on store purchases. Deferred interest: Store cards with “0% intro APRs” typically use deferred interest.

What is the difference between a bank card and a credit card?

Debit cards allow you to spend money by drawing on funds you have deposited at the bank. Credit cards allow you to borrow money from the card issuer up to a certain limit in order to purchase items or withdraw cash. You probably have at least one credit card and one debit card in your wallet.

Why might someone choose to use a store card over a bank card?

Many people use credit cards issued by their banks to improve their FICO scores. Store credit cards, which offer benefits and rewards like loyalty discounts, can be a fun and effective way to save money while you shop—as long as you wield them responsibly.

What are the advantages of using credit cards?

Credit card benefits

  • Opportunity to build credit.
  • Earn rewards such as cash back or miles points.
  • Protection against credit card fraud.
  • Free credit score information.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Increased purchasing power.
  • Not linked to checking or savings account.
  • Putting a hold on a rental car or hotel room.

What is the biggest factor affecting your credit?

Top 5 Credit Score Factors

  • Payment history. Payment history is the most important ingredient in credit scoring, and even one missed payment can have a negative impact on your score.
  • Amounts owed.
  • Credit history length.
  • Credit mix.
  • New credit.

    Is it best to pay by debit or credit card?

    Many of us use credit cards irresponsibly and end up in debt. However, contrary to popular belief, if you can use the plastic responsibly, you’re actually much better off paying with a credit card than with a debit card and keeping cash transactions to a minimum.

    How is a credit card network different from an issuer?

    Networks and issuers play very different but essential roles in how your credit card works . Card networks and issuers work together to process transactions from bank to bank, plus they facilitate where you can use your card.

    What’s the difference between a debit card and credit card?

    A debit card works the same as cash or a personal check. The money you spend comes directly from your bank account. The transaction declines if there is not enough money in your account to cover the cost. Some banks even place a limit on the amount of money you can withdraw per day. A credit card gives you a line of credit.

    Who are the issuers of the credit cards?

    Credit cards are usually issued by banks and credit unions. They give these financial institutions a fairly steady source of revenue from account fees, interest charges and payment processing fees charged to merchants. The transactional nature of credit cards also gives issuers a chance to establish relationships with consumers.

    How are cobranded store credit cards different from regular credit cards?

    Cobranded store credit cards give you the opportunity to earn rewards on all of your collective purchases while earning higher rewards for purchases made in that specific store. Still, your options for redeeming may be limited to a coupon or discount that you can use in that store.