Get Debit Card : Make It Easy

By: EconomyWatch Content Team   Date: 25 January 2010

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When most people think of a debit card, they think of getting the card from their bank. Now this may be the most secure and convenient way to get a debit card but it is certainly not the only way. A lot of grocery stores and convenience stores offer prepaid debit cards or a virtual debit card.

If you get a debit card from your bank you will need a checking account. If you already have one then simply request a debit card. If you do not have a checking account then you will need to open one. This will require at least one form of identification although most banks require two.

You can request the debit card at the same time as opening the account and a lot of times the bank will offer if it automatically. Now you need to wait for the card to arrive in the mail. Usually this takes about a week even though they will quote you up to three weeks, it rarely will be that delayed. 

Now that you have the card you should sign the back of the card. Of course if security is a concern for you then you may leave it blank but expect to be asked for identification when you use it. You will need a personal identification number (PIN) in order to use the card. Typically this is done by either taking the card into the bank and choosing a number or they will mail you a PIN number separately from the card, then you may call and activate the card.

In order to get a virtual debit card you will first need an account on a website like Paypal. Once you have an account open with them then you can request a debit card. It will take about 2 to 4 weeks to get a debit card through the site and it will link directly to your online funds. 

Getting a prepaid debit card is very easy and can be done at a number of grocery stores, gas stations, and websites. All you need is the amount of money that you wish to put on the card. That is all the access to money you will have until you put more money on the card. Any of these methods is available to you, depending on which you find most convenient.


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