5 Debit Card Perks That Can Help You Save Money
This is a collaborative post.
Debit cards are an indispensable tool for managing everyday transactions. Beyond the convenience they offer, many debit cards come equipped with a range of perks that go beyond the basic functionality of a payment method.
Understanding and utilizing these perks can provide a more rewarding and financially sound banking experience. Below are five debit card perks that can make a significant difference.
Interest Earned On Savings
When you deposit money into a savings account, the financial institution pays you interest to compensate you for keeping your money with them. These rates are usually expressed as an annual percentage yield (APY) and can vary between institutions.
Making regular deposits into your savings account can increase the overall amount of interest earned. The more money you have in your account, the more interest you can accrue. Consistent contributions to your savings account, even if they’re small, can positively impact the total interest earned.
Different savings accounts may have varying terms and conditions regarding interest payments. Some accounts, like NinjaCard, offer a fixed interest rate, while others may have variable rates that can change based on market conditions. Additionally, certain accounts may require a minimum balance to qualify for the advertised interest rate.
Tap-to-Pay
Tap-to-pay offers a swift and convenient way to make purchases. All you have to do is tap your card on the machine, and the payment is done! It’s faster than counting coins or even swiping a card.
This contactless payment method also keeps your money safe. Reducing physical contact with communal card readers mitigates the risk of card skimming, a fraudulent practice where thieves and scammers capture information from a card’s magnetic stripe.
Moreover, each transaction conducted using tap-to-pay generates a unique key resulting from encryption. This key is crucial in protecting your card information from potential theft. It ensures that even if someone intercepts the transaction data, it cannot be used for any other purpose, enhancing the overall security of the payment process.
Aside from its security features, tap-to-pay has also gained popularity for its health advantages. This preference stems from the ability to complete transactions without touching communal card readers or handling physical cash, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to germs or viruses.
Virtual Card Numbers
In the vast world of online shopping, where scammers lurk around every digital corner, keeping your personal information safe is like putting on a virtual suit of armor. And guess what? Your trusty debit card has a nifty trick to help you in this digital battle: virtual card numbers.
Instead of handing out your debit card number, your bank creates a temporary number just for that purchase. This virtual number is like a disguise for your actual card details. It’s there, doing its job for that single transaction, but it’s not revealing any critical information scammers would love to get their hands on.
Even if someone manages to snatch this virtual card number, it’s a dead end for them. It won’t work for anything else because it’s designed to be a one-time-use decoy.
Temporary Card Freezing
Losing a card is always a great concern. But fear not, temporary card freezing is here. With a few taps on your mobile banking app, you can instantly put your card in “freeze mode.”
Any attempts to use your card while frozen will be met with a firm “nope.” It’s like giving your card a time-out.
Not only does this feature add an extra layer of security in case of a card going missing, but it’s also your guardian against unauthorized transactions. By freezing your card you can minimize the risk of losing money and have peace of mind knowing your card is under your control.
Overdraft Buffers
The overdraft buffer is a lifesaver that can make a difference when your wallet feels light. It lets you go below your balance without dealing with those pesky overdraft fees.
Think of it as a friendly cushion for your finances. Let’s say you’re at the grocery store, and your bill is a few dollars more than what’s in your account. The overdraft buffer has your back. You can still pay without worrying about extra charges.
It will also save you from embarrassing moments too. Imagine you’re out with friends or in a busy store, and your card gets declined. It’s not a situation anyone wants to be in.
Each bank might have a different size for overdraft buffers. Some may give you a small extra amount, while others might be more generous.
Final Takeaway
The five highlighted debit card benefits not only streamline your everyday transactions but also serve as guardians of your hard-earned money. Understanding and leveraging these perks allows you to navigate the financial landscape with increased security, savings, and empowerment.
