What is the definition of a purchase card?

A purchase card is specifically designed for making official government purchases, which makes the second choice the correct definition. This card is issued to government personnel to streamline the procurement process, allowing them to buy necessary goods and services more efficiently without the red tape typically associated with government purchasing.

These cards are utilized within a controlled framework to ensure compliance with federal regulations and guidelines, facilitating lower-value transactions that can be executed quickly. The cardholders undergo training to understand the regulations, acceptable uses, and the reporting requirements, all of which support proper and responsible usage in accordance with government policies.

In contrast, a personal credit card does not align with this definition as it is meant for personal expenditures, not official government transactions. A debit card intended for employee reimbursements does not fit since reimbursements pertain to reimbursing employees for out-of-pocket expenses rather than making direct purchases. Lastly, a travel card serves a different purpose, focusing on travel-related expenses incurred by government employees rather than general procurement needs.