 |
| Debit Card (Photo credit: Neil T) |
A debit card can be considered as a bank card or a check card that provides the user or the card holder an electronic access to his or her bank account. Some of these cards may have stored value where payment can be made while others can relay a message to the bank to withdraw funds from the designated account of the payee or the user. Because of this, the bank card is commonly used as a replacement of cash when it comes to making purchases. However, it is not advisable to use this type of card at all times. There are also several instances where it would still be best to use cash instead of swiping your check card. Here are some of the examples:
• Online Buying -- According to some experts, using a bank card to buy items and services online is a huge NO-NO. This is due to the fact that if you ever experience problems in purchasing online or your card has been hijacked, then the card could be vulnerable since it is linked to an account. This also includes all types of phone orders.
• Buying Big Ticket Items -- Experts also say that with a big ticket item, using a credit card would be safer and more appropriate. Credit cards provide dispute rights if ever something goes wrong with the purchase. However, with the use of the bank card, there are only few protections provided to the card holder. Aside from this, some card will also provide extended warranties to the user. A credit card will also provide property insurance when it comes to buying or renting cars and other electronics.
• Use in Restaurants -- Although a bank card can be used in a restaurant, some financial experts think that it would be wise to use cash instead of the card. A restaurant is a public place where there are so many people around. This means that using a bank card can be too risky or dangerous. In fact, most reports of stolen credit or debit information took place in restaurants. Aside from this, some restaurant would also deduct more than the total amount of the user's purchase. This is because most food establishments would think that the card holder would leave a tip.
• Purchases that Require a Huge Deposit -- Buying items in stores that would require a huge deposit is also not a good place to use the check card. This is the reason why it is still advisable to use the credit card since the store has its security deposit and the user can still access the money in his or her bank account.
• In Instances where the Card Holder is a New Customer -- If the user is a first time customer in a particular store or shop, whether it is in the real world or online, it would still be best not to use the bank card. The reason for this is because as a first time customer, it would be best to know how the business is being run. It is important to consider how the employees treat their customers and as well as the quality of the item or product that the business is selling. These checkups are necessary before handing over the debit card that links to the holder's bank account.
Visit Achieve Card for more information.
