How to Switch From Checks to Debit Cards

You've no doubt heard it by now, that heavy sigh from the person behind you at the checkout as you pull out your checkbook to pay for your purchases. Debit cards are faster and more convenient, and if you use them correctly, safer than checks. Here are some tips for effective use of debit cards in place of paper checks when shopping.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Understand that when you give a check to a merchant, your personal information and your bank account number sit in the cash drawer. A thief can copy this information and use it to steal your identity. When you swipe your debit card instead, you don't have to provide this information.
2. Learn how to access your bank account over the Internet. Check your balance and remember what it is. Round the balance DOWN to the next dollar. For example, if you have $129.18 in your account, you only need to remember that you have $129.
3. Every time you use your debit card, place the receipt for your purchases in your wallet. Subtract the amount from the balance and remember the new amount. To make the math easier, round your receipt UP to the next dollar. For example, if your receipt is for $6.32, subtract $7 for a new balance of $122.
4. When you return home, sign on to your bank account and check your receipts against the day's activity. If the purchase already appears in your account, remove the receipt from your wallet and file it. Any receipts for purchases that don't yet appear go back into your wallet. You will have to subtract their amounts from your new account balance.
5. Write down the phone number you need to call to report a lost debit card and keep it with you, but not in your wallet. If you can't find your debit card, report it lost right away so you won't be liable for any purchases that might be made after you lost your card.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use your debit card to make purchases over the Internet, be sure to print out the receipts or make a note about the purchase. Many people forget about Internet purchases when updating their account balance.
• Make sure your debit card has a VISA or Mastercard logo on it. If you want to buy something from a merchant that doesn't take debit cards, he or she will be able to treat your debit cards as if it were a VISA or Mastercard. Keep in mind that the purchase price will still come out of your checking account--it won't go to your credit account.
• Never tell anyone the PIN you use with your debit card. Don't write the PIN down and don't ask a merchant to enter your PIN for you when you make a purchase.
• If your bank charges you a fee to use your debit card, get a new bank.