Benefits of Using Your Debit Card as Credit
We all want to ensure that we are protected from the fraudulent use of our information or accounts. Understanding how you can be best protected when using your Guardian Visa® debit card is important. When using your debit card, you may be prompted to enter a PIN, but before you do that, there are a few things to consider.
Using your debit card, purchases processed as credit and purchases processed as debit both come out of your checking account.
When you use your PIN, money comes out of your account nearly immediately. When your transaction is processed as credit, it may take a few days for the funds to leave your account. This type of transaction is covered by the Visa® Zero Liability Policy which protects you when your card is lost, stolen or used fraudulently. If you run your card as debit, it’s not protected.
When a PIN is used and a skimmer is present, the card can be duplicated and used fraudulently. Skimmers are on the rise at stores, in addition to gas stations and ATMs. Using the card as credit can minimize the risk and protect your account.
If a machine automatically asks you to enter a PIN when completing your purchase, you can generally get to credit processing by pressing the red button, the green button or by choosing bypass or credit options.
Grocery stores and gas stations will often ask for a PIN. Plan to use credit processing when you buy groceries or pay at the pump. This is an easier way to remember to keep your account secure.
Keeping your accounts fraud-free is a big priority and should be taken seriously. Learning how to keep your accounts secure is the best way to protect you and your money. To learn more about debit vs credit transactions visit our website.