Taking fifty dollars in cash is a misdemeanor. Charging fifty dollars on someone else's card is a felony. Intent to pay it back is not a defense.
This is a felony at any amount, and people are consistently surprised by that. Taking fifty dollars in cash is a misdemeanor. Taking someone's debit card and charging fifty dollars on it is a felony.
It comes up frequently with employees using a company card for personal purchases. Even if the employee intends to pay the company back, the offense is complete the moment the purchase is made without authorization. Never assume an employer will be fine with a personal charge on a company card. It can end with a felony conviction on your record.
Citation: Texas Penal Code §32.31
Degree and classification: State jail felony base, elevated to a third-degree felony if committed against an elderly individual.
Statutory language: The offense includes presenting or using a card without consent or knowing it is revoked or expired, using a fictitious card, or knowingly receiving a benefit from an unlawfully obtained card.