Abstract: A merchant discount is levied on receiving payments through Traveler's and other checks, from which a consumer reward is funded. A line of credit is extended in a conventional bank deposit account with checking option. When a check payable from such an account is presented, it is processed as a debit transaction if the funds are available from the deposits, and as a credit if it is paid from the line of credit. A debit-cum-credit card is also issued and processed through the payment system networks in the same way as above. A merchant discount is levied in each case, which may be higher in credit and lower in debit. A different level of reward incentive linked to each payment may then be awarded to the consumer, funded from the savings in processing each transaction.