> I doubt that credit card style charge backs are possible.
Actually they are, but only for SEPA direct debit (i.e. you giving your IBAN to the seller to authorize a recurring charge). Also I'm not sure if this is automatic or just standard practice but failed SEPA charges will invalidate the mandate, so you'll have to issue a new one if it ever bounces.
Some(?) banks also allow you to reverse a bank transfer in online banking but I'm not sure if this just an "undo" before the transfer has actually gone through or an actual reverse charge. You can also set up recurring transfers in most online banking software for free but again they're not usually reversible like SEPA direct debit payments are.
As for cash payments in Germany: the pandemic led to a lot of retail adoption of debit card payments but if you don't know in advance whether you'll be able to pay by card, it's good to keep cash on hand. Most larger retail stores (clothing, pharmacies, etc) and pricier restaurants take debit cards, grocerers/bakers and non-chain fast food places often only take cash. You probably can't pay for your Currywurst with your debit card but you can pick up your prescription (if it's not fully covered by health insurance) or pay for a fancy dinner. In the latter case they might even take credit cards, if they're particularly fancy.
Actually they are, but only for SEPA direct debit (i.e. you giving your IBAN to the seller to authorize a recurring charge). Also I'm not sure if this is automatic or just standard practice but failed SEPA charges will invalidate the mandate, so you'll have to issue a new one if it ever bounces.
Some(?) banks also allow you to reverse a bank transfer in online banking but I'm not sure if this just an "undo" before the transfer has actually gone through or an actual reverse charge. You can also set up recurring transfers in most online banking software for free but again they're not usually reversible like SEPA direct debit payments are.
As for cash payments in Germany: the pandemic led to a lot of retail adoption of debit card payments but if you don't know in advance whether you'll be able to pay by card, it's good to keep cash on hand. Most larger retail stores (clothing, pharmacies, etc) and pricier restaurants take debit cards, grocerers/bakers and non-chain fast food places often only take cash. You probably can't pay for your Currywurst with your debit card but you can pick up your prescription (if it's not fully covered by health insurance) or pay for a fancy dinner. In the latter case they might even take credit cards, if they're particularly fancy.