Most savings accounts come with a debit card, but not all, and the rules vary by bank
Whether you get a card for your savings account depends on the bank and the type of account you open. Some banks issue a debit card automatically when you open a savings account. Others require you to request one, charge a fee for it, or do not offer cards tied directly to savings accounts at all. A few banks offer ATM-only cards instead of full debit cards—these let you withdraw money and check your balance but not make purchases at stores.
The distinction matters because a debit card and an ATM card are not the same thing. A debit card works like a credit card at checkout but pulls money from your account immediately. An ATM card only works at ATMs and sometimes at bank tellers. Some savings accounts come with one, some with the other, and some with neither until you ask.
Before you open a savings account, ask the bank directly: "Does this account come with a debit card, an ATM card, or neither?" The answer shapes how you access your money and what you pay in fees.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks issue a debit card with a savings account automatically, but online banks and credit unions may require you to request one or may not offer cards at all.
- An ATM card lets you withdraw cash and check balances but cannot be used to buy things at stores, while a debit card does both.
- Some banks charge a monthly or annual fee for a debit card on a savings account, while others include it at no cost.
- If your bank does not offer a card, you can still access your money by visiting a branch, using online transfers, or setting up automatic bill pay.
How banks decide which card (if any) comes with your savings account
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically issue a debit card automatically when you open a savings account. You receive it in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, and it works at any store, gas pump, or ATM that accepts Visa or Mastercard.
Online banks like Ally, Marcus, and Discover often do not issue debit cards for savings accounts. Instead, they offer ATM cards that work at a network of ATMs nationwide, or they require you to transfer money to a checking account first if you want to spend it. Some online banks charge $5 to $10 for an ATM card; others include it free.
Credit unions vary widely. Some issue debit cards to all savings account holders. Others issue only ATM cards. A few require you to open a checking account to get a card at all. Call your credit union before opening an account if having a card matters to you.
When you might not get a card even if you want one
Certain account types do not come with cards, even at banks that normally issue them. High-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and specialty savings accounts (like Christmas club accounts) often have no card option because the bank wants to discourage frequent withdrawals. These accounts are designed to hold money, not to spend it.
If you are under 18, some banks will not issue a debit card without a parent or guardian on the account. A few banks require a minimum balance—often $500 to $1,000—before they will issue a card. If your account falls below that balance, the bank may deactivate the card until you restore the balance.
Banks also may decline to issue a card if you have a history of overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees. If a bank denies you a card, ask why. Sometimes the issue is temporary and resolves once you meet the requirement.
Fees you might pay for a savings account debit card
Most major banks do not charge a monthly fee for a debit card on a savings account. However, some banks charge $2 to $5 per month if you do not meet certain conditions—like keeping a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a linked checking account.
Online banks and credit unions are more likely to charge for ATM cards. Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per year, though some waive the fee if you use the card a certain number of times per month or maintain a minimum balance.
Replacement cards cost $5 to $15 if you lose yours or need a new one before the original expires. Rush delivery (2 to 3 days instead of 7 to 10) usually costs $10 to $25.
What to do if your bank does not offer a card
If your savings account does not come with a card and the bank will not issue one, you still have ways to access your money. You can visit a branch and withdraw cash at the teller window. You can transfer money online to a linked checking account and use that account's debit card. You can set up automatic bill pay through your bank's website to pay bills directly from savings.
Some banks let you use their mobile app to send money to another person's account via their email address or phone number. Others allow you to link your savings account to a third-party payment app like Venmo or PayPal, though this usually requires moving money to a checking account first.
If you need a card badly enough, you can open a checking account at the same bank. Most checking accounts come with a debit card automatically. You can keep your savings account separate and transfer money between them as needed.
Debit cards on savings accounts and withdrawal limits
Federal law used to limit savings account withdrawals to six per month. That rule was suspended in 2020 and has not been reinstated, so most banks no longer enforce withdrawal limits. However, some banks still reserve the right to limit withdrawals if you abuse the account.
A debit card counts as a withdrawal in the eyes of the bank. If you use your savings account debit card to make 20 purchases in a month, the bank may contact you or restrict the account. This is rare, but it can happen. If you plan to use a card frequently, a checking account is a better fit than a savings account.
ATM withdrawals usually do not count toward withdrawal limits because they happen at the bank's own machines. However, if you use an out-of-network ATM, the bank may charge a fee ($1 to $3 per transaction) and may count it as a withdrawal anyway.
How to request a debit card if your bank did not send one automatically
Log into your online banking account and look for a "Cards" or "Debit Card" section. Many banks let you request a card directly from the app or website. If you do not see that option, call the customer service number on the back of your bank statement or visit a branch in person.
Have your account number ready. Tell the representative you want a debit card or ATM card for your savings account. They will ask you to confirm your address and may ask security questions to verify your identity. The card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If the bank charges a fee, they will tell you before issuing the card. Some banks waive the fee if you ask, especially if you have been a customer for a long time or maintain a high balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a savings account debit card to overdraft my account?
Most banks will decline a purchase if it would overdraft your savings account. However, some banks allow overdrafts on debit cards and charge a fee (usually $25 to $35 per overdraft). Check your account agreement or call your bank to find out whether overdrafts are allowed on your specific account.
What happens to my debit card if I close my savings account?
The card will stop working within 24 hours of account closure. If you have a pending purchase or recurring payment set up, it will be declined. Make sure to update any subscriptions or automatic payments before you close the account.
Can I get a replacement card if mine is lost or stolen?
Yes. Call your bank immediately to report the card lost or stolen. The bank will deactivate it right away to prevent fraud. A replacement card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days, or you can pay for rush delivery (usually $10 to $25) to get it in 2 to 3 days.
Do I need a checking account if I have a savings account debit card?
No. A savings account debit card works on its own. However, many people keep both accounts because checking accounts typically have no withdrawal limits and come with more features like bill pay and check writing.
Can I use my savings account debit card internationally?
Yes, if it is a Visa or Mastercard debit card. You can use it at stores and ATMs in most countries. Your bank will charge a foreign transaction fee (usually 1% to 3% of the purchase) and may charge an ATM fee ($2 to $5) on top of that. Notify your bank before traveling so they do not block the card for fraud.