Can atm card be used as debit card?

There are very few people these days who don’t have plastic payment. All of these allow you to purchase items instead of using cash from debit and credit cards and even gift cards. One way to get money is from an ATM, though what’s the difference between an ATM card and a debit card?

ATM cards are very similar to debit cards. However, ATM cards can only make purchases online and not at physical retail locations. ATM and Debit cards will both let you utilize an ATMs full functionality.

Not all cards do the same things, which is why it’s good to know which cards can be used to withdraw cash and which cannot. Below, we’ll highlight the ATM card vs. the debit card, seeing how they work when getting money.

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What is an ATM?

An ATM is an automated teller machine that can be used for several different transactions. Many are located outside banks, which makes them more convenient for most customers, as they don’t have to go to the bank.

Customers can complete transactions with an ATM, including withdrawing cash, cashing checks, and even depositing money into their accounts. When you have an ATM card or a debit card, they are generally linked to your checking account, allowing you to access funds any time, day or night.

Can an ATM card be used as a debit card?

An ATM card is protected by a pin and allows customers to access their accounts. Customers can add funds, withdraw them, and even cash checks with an ATM card. Using an ATM card as a debit card is possible, though some restrictions apply.

One such restriction is that you can only use an ATM card for online purchases. ATM cards will not work in stores where debit cards are not accepted, something that all customers should consider before making it their only alternative payment form.

What is the difference between an ATM and a Debit card?

ATM cards and debit cards are similar, though one is more limited than the other. ATM cards are mainly used for ATMs, protected by a pin and allowing customers to access their funds. With an ATM card, customers can take out cash from an ATM and even add it into their accounts and use their card for online purchases.

ATM cards will only allow customers to access the funds in their accounts and do not allow them to overdraw when making a purchase.

On the other hand, A debit card offers more options than withdrawing cash. Debit cards are also protected by a pin and allow some transactions at an ATM, but you can also use them for purchases in all stores (both online and in-store) that accept debit cards.

Additionally, debit cards offer a little more wiggle room than ATM cards, as they will allow customers access to more cash than what is in the account. Though fees are typically attached to an overdraft, if a customer can pay it back quickly, they might not face any charges.

How can I convert my ATM card to a debit card?

Because ATM cards are more limited than debit cards, many customers would like to convert their cards to enjoy a more convenient way to access their money. ATM cards are attached to a bank account, making it easier to convert them to debit cards.

The reason it’s simple is that it just takes a quick chat with your bank. Most banks will now issue a debit card instead of an ATM card, knowing that it’s attached to the account and allows users to make purchases. To convert your ATM card to a debit card, simply:

Phone your bank

You can usually find a contact number on your bank’s main website or the back of your ATM card. You could also stop by and take directly to a banker if needed. Typically, you can get a debit card the same day by visiting a bank.

Request a debit card

Once you’ve got someone on the line, you’ll need to request a debit card. You may need to bring documentation with you, including your driver’s license and current ATM card. Make sure to have them with you just to be on the safe side.

Activate your debit card

Many banks will automatically switch and give you a debit card that links directly with your account. You can start to use it immediately, or you may need to activate it by either calling a toll-free number or making your first purchase. Most banks will tell you to just use the ATM outside of the branch by entering in your debit card PIN to activate.

Start using your debit card

From there, all you’ll need to do to start enjoying your debit card is use it. You can take money out of ATMs linked to your account without fees and add funds. When it comes to making purchases in-store and online, you can use your debit card, doing so as a way to access money in your account.

Before you take off and start using your debit card, keep in mind that you look at a few things, including the fees that come with transactions or withdrawals. Not all debit cards are free from fees, though most banks will keep them low if you’re using a participating ATM.

It’s good to look at all possible fees, including the APR and limits to withdrawals and deposits each day. In this way, you won’t have any surprises coming your way when it comes to using your new debit card.

Summary: Can an ATM card be used as a debit card?

ATM cards are becoming outdated, with most banks turning to debit cards to give customers access to their accounts. If you have an ATM card, you can request a change to a debit card, be able to use it for purchases, and get access to your money in an instant.

These days, accessing your cash is simple, requiring little to no assistance from your bank. To enjoy the convenience of your money without having to carry it around, look into scoring a pin-protected debit card, enjoying a whole new way of accessing your accounts.

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