What Are the Penalties for Credit or Debit Card Abuse in Texas?

 Posted on February 02, 2026 in Theft

Texas Penal Code § 32.31, Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse, is a felony offense that is aggressively prosecuted in Tarrant County, Texas. These cases are considered serious financial crimes because they involve fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access to another person’s financial information. 

Under this law, you commit credit card or debit card abuse if you intentionally or knowingly use a credit or debit card without the effective consent of the cardholder. You also commit this crime if you:

• Use a card that is stolen or forged

• Possess card or account number information with intent to defraud

• Receive benefits knowing the card was obtained unlawfully

Using someone else’s card without permission just one time can place you at risk of jail, steep fines, and a permanent felony record. Texas law classifies this as a felony, no matter how much money you spend. This is one of the most important differences between credit card abuse and other property crimes. 

If you are charged with credit card or debit card abuse in 2026, you need a Tarrant County criminal defense lawyer on your side right away. Your future depends on it. Call The Dameron Law Firm at 817-222-0624 now. 

Is Credit or Debit Card Abuse a Felony in Texas? 

Most credit card or debit card abuse cases are charged as state jail felonies. The range of punishment for a state jail felony includes:

• Jail time between 180 days and two years in a Texas state jail facility

• Fines of up to $10,000

But certain factors can increase the severity of the charge. For example, if you commit this crime against someone over age 65, the charge can be increased to a third-degree felony. You could spend up to 10 years in prison for this. 

Is Credit Card Abuse the Same as Theft? 

Credit card abuse is often charged alongside theft offenses, but the two crimes are legally different. 

Theft focuses on unlawfully taking property or services. Depending on the value involved, theft can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Credit card abuse, however, focuses on the fraudulent use or possession of a device that gives you access to someone else’s money. Even when the amount obtained is minimal, the misuse or possession of the card or account information elevates the case to a felony offense.

Credit Card Abuse Plus Misdemeanor Theft

In some cases, prosecutors may also allege misdemeanor theft in addition to felony credit card abuse, particularly when physical items are taken during the transaction. While misdemeanor theft carries lower punishment ranges, the credit card abuse charge typically drives the case due to its felony classification and potential prison exposure.

Common Questions About Texas Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse:

What makes credit card abuse different from theft?

Credit card abuse involves fraud and unauthorized access to financial accounts, while theft involves taking property or services.

Can I be charged with credit card or debit card abuse without actually buying anything?

Yes. Possession of a card or account information with intent to defraud is enough for a felony charge.

What should I do if I am accused of credit card abuse?

You should remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

Contact a Tarrant County, TX Felony Crimes Defense Lawyer Now

At The Dameron Law Firm, we defend people facing felony credit card abuse and related theft charges. A strategic and aggressive defense from our Fort Worth criminal defense attorney can be critical to protecting your freedom, your reputation, and your future. Call us today for a free consultation at 817-222-0624.