Most banks give you a debit card automatically when you open a checking account, but not all
When you open a checking account at a traditional bank, you will usually receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. The card is tied to your account and lets you withdraw cash and pay for things without writing checks. However, some banks—particularly online-only banks and credit unions—may not include a debit card, or they may charge a fee for one. A few banks let you choose whether you want the card at all.
The debit card is not the same as your account itself. You can have a checking account and use it only through checks, transfers, or ATM withdrawals. But most people use the debit card because it works anywhere a credit card is accepted, and the money comes straight from your account balance.
Key Takeaways
- Most traditional banks include a debit card with a new checking account at no extra cost, arriving by mail in about a week.
- Online banks and some credit unions may not offer a debit card, or they may charge a monthly or one-time fee for one.
- You can use your checking account without a debit card by writing checks, using ATM withdrawals, or setting up direct transfers.
- If your bank does not offer a debit card or charges for one, you can switch banks or open a second account elsewhere.
- Debit cards issued by banks are not the same as prepaid cards; the debit card draws from your actual checking balance.
What happens when you open a checking account
When you complete the account opening process—either online, by phone, or in person—the bank will ask for your mailing address. A few days later, your debit card arrives in the mail. You will also receive a PIN (personal identification number) separately, either in the same envelope or in a second mailing. Some banks let you set your own PIN online before the card arrives; others mail it to you.
The card usually comes inactive. You must call the number on the back of the card or log into your online banking to activate it before you can use it. This step is a security measure to make sure the card reached you and not someone else. Activation typically takes a few minutes.
If you do not receive your debit card within 10 business days, contact your bank's customer service. Cards can be lost in the mail, or the bank may have an address on file that is incorrect. The bank can reissue the card or, in some cases, issue a temporary card number you can use online while you wait.
Banks that do not include a debit card
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover often do not send a physical debit card by default. Instead, they may offer a virtual card number for online purchases, or they may charge $5 to $15 for a physical card. Some online banks do not offer debit cards at all and expect you to use ATM withdrawals, checks, or transfers to move money out of your account.
Credit unions vary widely. Some credit unions include a debit card with membership; others charge a one-time fee of $10 to $25 or a monthly fee of $1 to $3. Before you open an account, ask the credit union directly whether a debit card is included and what it costs.
A few banks—mostly those focused on savings rather than checking—do not offer debit cards because they want to discourage frequent spending. If you need a debit card, these banks are not a good fit for you.
How to get a debit card if your bank does not offer one
If your bank charges for a debit card and you do not want to pay, you have three options: switch to a bank that includes one, open a second checking account at a different bank just for the debit card, or use alternative payment methods like checks or transfers.
Switching banks takes a few days. You will need to update your direct deposit, automatic bill payments, and any other recurring transfers. Many banks offer a switching service that handles some of this for you. If you want to keep your current account open, you can simply open a new account elsewhere and use that debit card instead.
Opening a second account is simpler if you only need the debit card for occasional purchases. You can keep your main account where it is and use the second account's debit card when you need it. Just remember that you now have two accounts to monitor and two sets of fees to watch for.
Debit cards versus prepaid cards and credit cards
A debit card issued by your bank is connected to your checking account balance. When you swipe it, the money comes out of your account immediately. You cannot spend more than you have (though overdraft fees may apply if you go negative). A prepaid card, by contrast, is loaded with money in advance and is not connected to a bank account. Prepaid cards are useful if you do not have a bank account, but they usually charge more fees.
A credit card is different again. It borrows money on your behalf, and you pay the bill later. Credit cards build your credit history; debit cards do not. If you are building credit or want to earn rewards, a credit card may be better. But if you want to spend only what you have, a debit card is simpler and safer.
Fees and limits on debit cards
Most banks do not charge a monthly fee for a debit card if you have a checking account. However, you may pay fees in other ways: ATM fees if you use an out-of-network machine, overdraft fees if you spend more than your balance, or foreign transaction fees if you use the card abroad.
Some banks limit how many debit card transactions you can make per month, though this is rare. Check your account agreement or ask your bank about any limits. Online banks sometimes limit ATM withdrawals to a certain number per month, which can affect how you use your debit card.
If your debit card is lost or stolen, report it to your bank immediately. You are usually not responsible for fraudulent charges if you report the loss within two business days. After that, your liability may increase, so act quickly.
How long it takes to receive your debit card
Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the time your account is opened. Some banks offer expedited shipping for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25, which cuts the time to 2 to 3 business days. A few banks let you pick up a card in person at a branch on the same day you open the account.
If you need to use your account before the card arrives, you can write checks, use your online banking to transfer money, or visit an ATM with your account number and PIN. Many banks also issue a temporary card number for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my checking account without a debit card?
Yes. You can write checks, set up automatic bill payments through your bank's website, transfer money to other accounts, or withdraw cash at an ATM using your account number and PIN. A debit card is convenient but not required to use a checking account.
What if I do not want a debit card?
You can decline it when you open the account, or you can simply not activate it when it arrives. Tell your bank you do not want a card, and they will not send one. Some people prefer this for security reasons or because they do not spend money outside their home.
Can I get a replacement debit card if mine is lost or stolen?
Yes. Call your bank immediately and report the card lost or stolen. The bank will cancel it and mail you a new one, usually within 7 to 10 business days. Many banks can issue a temporary card number for online use while you wait, or you can visit a branch to pick up a card in person.
Do I have to pay for a debit card?
Most traditional banks include a debit card with a checking account at no cost. Online banks and credit unions may charge a one-time fee or monthly fee. Before you open an account, ask whether the debit card is included and what it costs.
Can I use my debit card internationally?
Yes, but your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee, usually 1 to 3 percent of each purchase. Some banks waive this fee for certain account types. Before traveling, contact your bank to let them know you will be using your card abroad, so they do not block it as fraud.