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Step 1
Apply at your local bank for a checking account. You will need to have at least one form of identification and most banks actually require two forms of identification to open a checking account.
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Step 2
Request a debit card when opening your checking account. Banks typically offer this automatically, but to ensure that you are receiving a debit card with your new checking account, it is best to ask for one.
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Step 3
Contact the bank if you already have a checking account with them, but you do not have a debit card. Let them know you would like a debit card linked to your checking account.
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Step 4
Wait for your debit card to arrive in the mail. You will not receive this card at the bank when you first open your checking account. It usually takes three to seven working days for your debit card to arrive in the mail.
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Step 5
Sign the back of your debit card when you receive it. Another option is to write on the back in the signature panel "please ask for ID." This is one way you, as the debit card holder, can limit your risk of identity theft. The thief in that situation would need an ID with their photo on it and your name, instead of just being able to duplicate your signature.
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Step 1
Open up a Paypal account. When you open your Paypal account you can request a debit card to access your funds. It will require two to four weeks for the card to arrive in the mail.
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Step 2
Visit the website AllAccessCard.com (see Resources). At this website you can order a prepaid debit card in any amount that you wish.
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Step 3
Visit your local grocery store. Many grocery stores now sell a variety of gift cards and debit cards. Gift cards are the ones that can only be redeemed at certain stores. A prepaid debit card can be purchased as well. These prepaid debit cards come in several forms including Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
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Step 4
Order a prepaid virtual debit card from Obopay.com (see Resources). With a prepaid virtual debit card, you do not receive the card itself---just the card number. The CVV number (which is the three digit code on most cards on the signature side) is mailed to you in case a vendor asks for that information.
