Your Debit Card: It Is Like Having Your Bank Account With You
Debit cards are really helpful. You do not need to carry a lot of money when you're out. You can just use your debit card to buy things. Your debit card takes money from your checking or savings account. This way you can keep track of your money with your debit card. Make sure you do not spend more money than you have in your debit card account.
So you got your debit card. Maybe you had one for a while. Never really knew how to use it. We will tell you everything about your debit card.
What Is A Debit Card?
A debit card is like a key to your bank account. It is connected to your checking or savings account. You can use your debit card to buy things, pay bills ,get money or shop on the internet. When you use your debit card money comes out of your account.
Getting Started: Activate Your Debit Card
Before you can use your debit card you need to activate it. Your bank will tell you how to do this. You can call them, use their website or go to their bank. They will help you activate your debit card. Then you need to make a code called a PIN. Do not make it something easy to guess like your birthday.
Things You Should Know About Your Debit Card
New debit cards have some features. You can get money from machines. If you use your bank’s machine you will not have to pay a fee. You can also buy things at stores, gas stations and restaurants. Most new debit cards can be used without putting them in a machine. You just tap your debit card on the reader. When you shop on the internet you put in your debit card number, when it expires and the secret code. You can also connect your debit card to your phone’s wallet, which's useful when you are in a hurry.
Using Your Debit Card In A Store
Using your debit card in a store is easy. You give your debit card to the person helping you put it in the machine, choose debit, put in your code and that’s it. You have paid with your debit card.
Getting Money From A Machine
If you need money you go to a machine. Put in your debit card choose which account you want to use and how much money you want. Then you get your money. Do not forget to take your receipt.
Using Your Debit Card On The Internet
If you like to shop from home you can use your debit card on the internet. Just put in your debit card details on the website. Make sure the website is safe so your debit card details are not stolen.
Keeping Track Of Your Spending
Your debit card can help you keep track of your money. Every time you use your debit card it takes money from your account. You can check your account on the internet or with your bank’s app. Some banks also send you messages when you use your debit card.
Being Safe With Your Debit Card
You need to be careful with your debit card. Do not tell anyone your code. Do not write it down where someone can find it. Check your account often to make sure nobody is using your debit card without your permission. If your debit card is lost or stolen, tell your bank away. They will cancel your debit card. Send you a new one. Be careful of emails or calls that ask for your debit card details.
Fees For Using Your Debit Card
You should know that using your debit card can cost you money sometimes. This can happen when you use a machine that’s not from your bank or when you use your debit card in another country. Check your bank’s website to know more about these fees.
Why Use A Debit Card?
Debit cards are good because they are easy to use, fast and help you keep track of your money. They also have safety features. You can use them anywhere. You do not need to carry money when you have your debit card.
Mistakes To Avoid
Some people make mistakes with their debit cards. They tell others their code does not update their details and spend money without checking their account. Do not do these things. Only buy from websites. Make sure you have money in your account before you use your debit card.
A debit card is a tool to pay for things, pay bills, get money or shop on the internet. Just follow the rules. Keep your details safe. You will be happy with your debit card.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card?
A debit card takes money from your account. A credit card uses money you borrow and pay back later.
2. Can I use my debit card to shop on the internet?
Yes, most websites accept debit cards.
3. What do I do if my debit card is lost or stolen?
Call your bank away. They will cancel your debit card. Send you a new one.
4. Is it safe to use my debit card?
Yes, if you are careful and follow the safety rules.
5. Can I get money from any machine with my debit card?
Yes you might have to pay a fee if its not your bank’s machine.
6. How do I check my account balance?
You can check it at a machine on your bank’s website or, with their app. You can also call your bank.
