Why the quotes? It is free. Except for the money that you transfer. That is deducted from the bank account, obviously.
Taxpayers still pay for it, but it is free at the point of sale or transaction.
It is great system tho as far as my understanding how it was done. In us, the rate is 3-4% on credit transaction which dominat payment system for point of sale. Shit is taxing.
The real question is why do people in the US use credit cards instead of debit cards like everyone else?
It provides better customer protections over any other payment method. It allows you get a charge back if vendor is acting funny.
You zero practical protection with cash for example if physical or less protection with debit card. Debit cards are not good to use for everyday buying if it is your checking account. It is too risky.
