Credit Account 2026

A credit account is a flexible loan form where a credit limit is opened for you. You use money as needed and pay interest only on the amount used.

What is a credit account?

A credit account (also known as a revolving loan account) is a flexible credit product that works similarly to a virtual credit card. After signing the agreement, you can draw from a pre-approved credit limit by transferring funds to your personal bank account through the lender's self-service portal or mobile application. You only pay interest on the amount actually used, not the entire credit limit.

Unlike a standard quick loan, a credit account does not require a new application each time you need funds. Once you repay part of the drawn amount, the available credit limit is automatically restored for further use. This makes it ideal for those who need a financial buffer for unexpected expenses.

Credit account terms in 2026

• Credit limit: 250 – 5,000 € (credit companies) / up to 20,000 € (banks)
• Interest rate: from 0% for new customers, typically 2 – 4% per month
• Minimum repayment: 5 – 10% of the used amount per month
• Contract duration: usually 12 – 36 months (renewable)
• Identification: ID card, Mobile-ID, or Smart-ID
• Requirements: age 18+, regular income, clean credit history

How does a credit account work?

Using a credit account involves these steps:

• 1. Register on the lender's website and complete identity verification
• 2. Submit a bank statement for creditworthiness assessment
• 3. Receive your credit limit (e.g., 500 – 3,000 €)
• 4. Transfer the needed amount to your bank account via self-service
• 5. Make the required minimum monthly repayment
• 6. The repaid amount becomes available again within your limit

Credit account vs credit card vs quick loan

A credit account suits those who need cash directly in their bank account for transfers, bill payments, and general use. A credit card is better for making purchases in stores and online shops. A quick loan provides a one-time fixed sum with a set repayment schedule.

The main advantages of a credit account include flexible repayment, a reusable credit limit, and interest charged only on the drawn amount. The downside is that consistently making only minimum payments can significantly extend the repayment period and increase the total cost of borrowing.

What to consider when choosing a credit account

Always compare multiple providers. Key criteria to evaluate include:

• Interest rate — whether it is fixed or variable, monthly or annual
• Contract and maintenance fees — some providers charge zero fees
• Minimum monthly payment — a very low minimum prolongs the loan significantly
• Early repayment — whether additional fees apply

Use your credit account responsibly: avoid consistently maxing out your limit and try to pay more than the minimum required amount each month. This will help you keep overall costs under control.