How is the Direct Express® debit card different from a credit card?
You can only use your Direct Express® debit card if you have money in your account. The full amount of your purchase is debited from the card account at the time of the purchase or very soon thereafter. The Direct Express ® card does not provide a line of credit. With a credit card, you use the card to borrow money to make purchases and pay back the credit card company in part or in full every month.
