How can I use a debit card?

You can use your debit card in most stores to pay for something. You just swipe the card and enter your PIN number on a key pad. Debit cards take money out of your checking account immediately. Debit cards let you get cash quickly. You can use your debit card at an automated teller machine, or ATM, to get money from your checking account.

What are the benefits of using a debit card?

The biggest advantage of debit cards over credit cards is that you don't need to worry about interest rates, monthly bills and finance charges. Since a debit card uses only the money you actually have, you won't build up an unmanageable debt by using it, as you might with unchecked use of a credit card.

How do debit cards work?

A debit card is linked to your checking account and allows you to make purchases. Debit cards work similar to cash, where you typically can’t spend more money than you have in your bank account. Any purchases you make with a debit card are automatically deducted from your checking account.

How do I use my debit card at an ATM?

You just swipe the card and enter your PIN number on a key pad. Debit cards take money out of your checking account immediately. Debit cards let you get cash quickly. You can use your debit card at an automated teller machine, or ATM, to get money from your checking account.