We've all done it. We're out shopping, ready to use our debit cards, and the sales clerk asks "debit or credit?" We really don't know what the difference is. It is a debit card, so we say "debit," right? Wrong.
By choosing "debit" and entering a PIN (personal identification number), your transaction is treated as an ATM transaction. Instead, when you're making retail purchases with your debit card, choose "credit." You'll bypass any potential fees—and the funds still come out of your checking account. Another good reason: Credit transactions use the security of chip technology or require a signature, which helps guard against fraud. Shopping online using your debit card? Any purchases made online using your debit card will automatically be a "credit" transaction...no PIN needed.
So save your PIN for ATM use and say "credit" when you're at the mall or grocery store. For more information about debit cards contact Sun Federal CU. We'll explain the differences between debit and credit cards and how debit cards can work for you.
