Debit cards are directly linked to your checking account, which can make then a safer alternative to using credit. In addition, since you’re using the funds you have for a debit card (overdraft fees notwithstanding) there isn’t the same need for a credit check for an ATM card as there is in qualifying for a credit card.

Credit card companies require a credit pull to assess the risk involve with giving you a card. Payments are delayed and companies need to trust that you will at least pay the monthly minimum balance.

But that doesn’t mean using a debit card won’t affect your credit at all. If you bounce a bunch of checks or otherwise make a mess of your account, this will go down on your permanent record. It’s a different record than your credit report, though it could make it impossible to get another regular checking account for years afterwards.

If you have overdraft protection specifically, however, and run up a huge balance and then don’t pay, this could affect your credit score.