Credit Card History

The credit card as we know it today is not much different from the charge cards that were invented in the 1950s; as such, its history isn't actually all that long or interesting.

Arguably the most notable detail to take away from the development of the credit card was that it came *before* the invention of the debit card, which entered the market in the 70s. The debit card (its differences from credit cards we will explain later) had a bit of a rough start as it entered its early stage in a market that already demanded global access. It took a while, but thanks to the rapid adoption of MasterCard Bank of America's Americard (better known as its present name Visa), both credit and debit cards were eventually able to go global by the 80s and 90s.

Credit Card vs. Debit Card: What's the Difference?

Customers can deposit money into an online casino account using either a credit card or a debit card. The distinction is in where the money comes from and how it is spent.

When a client uses their credit card to make a payment, the card-issuing firm distributes the money to the merchant. The client just has to pay the agreed-upon minimum, and not the entire amount, every month to the card issuer.

Revolving credit card accounts allow customers to carry an amount over from month to month without having to pay it in full at the end of each month. Interest will continue to accrue on the sum owed even if there are no penalties for this.

Meanwhile, when a consumer uses a debit card linked to a personal bank account, the money is withdrawn directly from the account. It's also possible to load funds straight onto the debit card without having an account with a bank—these are called prepaid debit cards and also have their unique value propositions that we will explain at a later time.

Which Should I Choose?

Simply put, it really depends on your personal preference, but we at InsideCasino would suggest using a debit card instead of a credit card.

The reason for this is that, with a debit card, there is no way for you to spend money that you don't have. This is especially important for Kiwi players who have a problem with spending too much, as credit cards don't have any such safety net. Instead, they will simply rack up credit card charges that players will have to shoulder for months after the fact. However, credit cards do offer a layer of customer protection as you are insured, and you can make fraud claims to the bank before having to pay.

In addition, some online casinos may also charge a transaction fee if you use a credit card to deposit money into your account. Debit cards, as they are directly tied to your bank account, usually don't require such charges. 

You also won't be able to withdraw your online casino funds into a credit card, on account of its nature as a "pay later" card. Debit cards can, of course, do this by default. 

Payment Cards at NZ Casinos

While Visa and MasterCard NZ casinos are by far the most common card issuers, online casinos in New Zealand will typically also take payments through Electron, Interac, EC, Maestro, Solo, and Carte Bleu. While less common, you may also find some casinos supporting American Express, Diner's Club, and Discover Card.

Credit Card Casino FAQs

Dale Shelabarger Author

Dale is an author for InsideCasino and an expert in the iGaming sector, with his specialist areas in casinos, online pokies and bingo. dale has written hundreds of casino reviews and iGaming articles over the past 15 years.