This still raises an interesting question. In researching this topic, I found the following IRS memorandum that references credit cards on pages 5 & 6. it mentions that debit cards are deposit accounts as well as secured credit cards that need to be reported on a FBAR.. It mentions though that a regular credit card might not be reportable unless you have the ability to make advance payments from the card such as from a convenience check. If this is the case, the credit card must be reported on FBAR because it provides monetary funds to you.
Also, if you the have the ability to make ATM withdrawals with the card, this may be a deposit account that needs to be reported on an FBAR. Credit Cards are a gray area within the FBAR reporting requirements where there is no clear guidance. This memorandum does provide some guidance to the subject.
in answer to your question, all credit cards are backed by banks. On the FBAR, you are not reporting the credit card information but you are reporting bank information that back the credit cards.
You wouldn't disclose anything to the banks or credit card companies nor would they report to FBAR or IRS. The reporting is your responsibility and not theirs.
You may not need to report a credit card though if you don't have the ability to make cash withdrawals or make cash/check payments through a convenience check.
You are correct in the respect that deposit accounts and savings accounts are different but both of these are reported on an FBAR.
@Helen123
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