You may have already heard that the cash card functions on debit cards, i.e., GeldKarte and girogo, will be completely discontinued at the end of 2024. This payment services an important era in German payment services —but above all, it brings progress.
Why is the cash card function being discontinued?
Quite simply, times have changed. What was practical a few years ago is now outdated. GeldKarte and girogo were based on a prepaid principle—customers had to top up the card with credit card in order to pay with it. This is no longer appropriate today, because we have come a long way since then: payment methods such as contactless payment with girocard, smartphones, or wearables are easier, faster, and better suited to everyday life. No topping up, no thinking, just hold the card the terminal – done.
The advantages of girocard: More than just a replacement for the cash card function
The girocard is a modern alternative that is already the most popular debit card in Germany. And for good reason:
- No recharging necessary: No more hassle card credit to the card . Payments are debited directly from your checking account, giving you full transparency and control over your spending.
- Simply contactless: For amounts up to 50 euros, you usually don't even need to enter your PIN. Hold card the terminal—and you're done.
- Secure and reliable: girocard on proven security standards and protects you with every transaction.
- Digital and flexible: whether as card physical card integrated into your smartphone, with girocard you girocard in the way that is most convenient for you.
- Accepted everywhere: Whether in supermarkets, restaurants, or gas stations, girocard used almost everywhere in Germany and is also increasingly accepted directly in areas close to the border.
What should you do now if you are still using the GeldKarte and girogo cash card functions?
If your card has a cash card function (GeldKarte and girogo), you will no longer be able to use it from now on. You can withdraw the prepaid credit loaded onto the chip of a girocard from the respective card-issuing credit institution until the end of March 2025.
girocard long girocard a solution that is efficient, flexible, and, above all, payment services to today's payment services requirements. It makes paying easier—and adapts to any situation, whether in the supermarket, drugstore, or gas station.
Conclusion: less effort, more possibilities
The GeldKarte and girogo cash card functions have built trust in contactless payment and acceptance for small electronic payments, and have played a key role in shaping today's convenient payment methods. This is another reason why girocard is girocard the most popular payment method in Germany and is also widely used for small amounts – whether as card physical card digitally. the Germany Banking Industry Committee will continue to develop the Germany Banking Industry Committee payment solutions in line with the wishes and habits of customers and merchants in the future.
