What is the purpose of a debit card?

The purpose of a debit card is primarily to transfer money electronically for purchases. When you use a debit card, the amount of the transaction is directly deducted from your bank account, allowing you to spend the money you already have rather than borrowing funds. This function makes debit cards a convenient tool for managing spending within your available balance, and they are often used for everyday transactions such as groceries, gas, and online shopping.

The other options reference features or functions that are not indicative of a debit card's main purpose. For instance, borrowing money for future purchases pertains more to credit cards or loans, and earning rewards typically relates to specific credit card programs. Additionally, while debit cards can indirectly contribute to financial habits that may affect credit scores, they do not directly increase a credit score like responsible credit card usage can.