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Debit Cards

Debit and prepaid debit cards provide convenient and secure payment options for consumers, allowing easy access to funds without the risk of accruing debt.

Explore debit card basics

Smiling businessman making payment with credit card
Debit cards can offer additional perks to help you save more of your money.
Man paying with credit card while shopping with woman at supermarket
Debit cards and prepaid cards can be used similarly, but debit cards tend to have fewer fees.
woman sitting on her couch and looking at her phone and credit card
Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.

Use your debit card wisely

DEBIT

Where to avoid using your debit card

Just because you can use your debit card almost anywhere doesn’t mean you always should. Bankrate's experts keep you informed on the risky places to avoid swiping your debit card.

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Checking

Daily ATM withdrawal limits

It's important to know how much you can withdraw from your bank's ATMs in a given day to help you better handle financial emergencies that require cash.

Checking

Available account balance vs. current balance

Understand the differences between the two balances you may see when looking at your bank account.

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BANKING

Checking account and ATM fee study

Maintaining a checking account with a debit card can come at a high cost. Learn how rising ATM fees and other banking fees are impacting consumers.

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Experts in all things banking

Our expert writers and editors bring you timely news and reliable information - backed by data and first-hand experience.

About Bankrate's team
Greg McBride

Greg McBride, CFA Arrow Right Icon

Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

Sarah Foster Arrow Right Icon

Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

Mark Hamrick Arrow Right Icon

Senior Economic Analyst

Latest articles

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The rule provides a framework for settling unauthorized debit-card transactions.
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Debit cards are inherently less secure than credit cards, especially at these spots.
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Credit cards aren’t a scam or a trap – when used correctly, they have lots of perks.
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Balancing your checking account may sound dated, but it still makes sense.
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Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.
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Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.
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An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
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Here’s everything you need to know about savings accounts.
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Checking and savings accounts are different. Should you have one, the other — or both?
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Savings bonds are safe and easy to buy, but you can earn higher interest income elsewhere.
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These seven banks and credit unions offer competitive rates on CDs for businesses.
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Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
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These options are great places to stash money from a bonus, inheritance and more.
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