Debit cards are issued by banks and, in most cases, look and spend exactly like a credit card. The only difference is that the debit card does not advance you any credit. In fact, using a debit card is much like writing a check without the paper. Any amount you spend is deducted directly from your checking account virtually immediately, depending on how the transaction is actually processed. There is no bill to pay at the end of the month, no accumulating interest charges and no membership fees.