The abolition of the Girocard or EC card with the Maestro logo is on everyone’s lips. You can find out from us what this means for you personally and your company.
EC card or Girocard – we explain the meaning to you:
Both refer to the same payment method, although the term EC card is now outdated and refers to the term electronic cash. This was replaced by the Girocard in 2007. However, the term has become established and is used colloquially for checking and debit cards.
And what exactly is the debit card?
A debit card is actually not a new type of card, but means that the payment amount is deducted directly from the buyer’s account and the typical short-term credit of a credit card is not granted. Despite everything, it combines the features of a classic Girocard with a credit card, such as the ability to pay online.
But now to the facts:
First of all: Keep calm and relax! 😉 You can continue to use your current Girocard without worry until it expires. It’s just that no new cards have been issued since July 2023. If your card has expired, you will usually receive a new debit card directly from your bank.
As an entrepreneur, however, you should keep an eye on your payment provider’s fee model, as debit card payments can incur higher fees than traditional Girocard payments. You should also ask your terminal provider whether you need to have your card reader specifically activated for debit and credit cards. Debit card payments remain possible.
Customers who work with our partner ZahlungsWERK can rest easy. Debit cards do not need to be activated separately for the ZahlungsWERK terminals, and there are no additional fees.
And why is the Girocard being abolished?
Mastercard officially names two Greens: firstly, because the current Girocard is not suitable for online shopping and secondly, because the electronic cash procedure only works in Germany.
We hope we were able to shed some light on the matter and are of course available to answer any questions you may have about CASSABOX and digital payment options. Feel free to send us a message or call us at: 04954-9279550.
Do you work with our partner, ZahlungsWERK? They will be happy to answer any questions you may have about fees and activation of debit cards. You can reach them by phone: 040-637 725 78 or by email at: sales@paymentswerk.de.