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Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,560
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Debit Or Credit Card?

[ Edited ]

I have a debit card, but haven't used it in years.  I use my Discover card for the points and pay it in full each month.

 

I just don't like the whole debit card attached to my checking account thing and me using it everywhere for random purchases, small or large.  I used one for years with no issues, but then stopped and haven't missed it at all. 

And I always have cash with me. I don't see cash as the evil monster that some people do.


Why is it, when I have a 50/50 guess at something, I'm always 100% wrong?
Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,560
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

@tansy wrote:

After my debit card was breached several times, I no longer have one.


 

@tansy - and the thought of that possibly happening is why I stopped using mine. 


Why is it, when I have a 50/50 guess at something, I'm always 100% wrong?
Honored Contributor
Posts: 26,465
Registered: ‎10-03-2011

I carry some cash, but we mostly pay for things using a credit card since it pays us a sizable rebate every year.  We carefully keep track of our budget and spending so we pay the statement balance in full each month and avoid interest.  I still pay a few things by paper check. Personally, I don't like debit cards. 

Honored Contributor
Posts: 8,843
Registered: ‎03-14-2010

I find I use my debt card alot more now because I have to have cash.

 

It seems like every restaurant has a surcharge for using a credit card or no longer accept credit cards. So I have to have cash when I eat out. 

But if I am making purchases, I will use a credit card.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 14,986
Registered: ‎03-15-2014

Please: do not use a debit card for purchases.  Despite what they say, and despite the banks constantly encouraging you to use your debit card, credit cards are safer. 

 

 

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,571
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

@CherryHugs 

As some others have said, I only use my debit card to get cash from my bank ATM.  With all of the theft and fraud that's around today, I'm not comfortable using something directly linked to my bank account.  I use credit cards for most things and pay off the balance every month.

"Breathe in, breathe out, move on." Jimmy Buffett
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,523
Registered: ‎10-30-2010

Re: Debit Or Credit Card?

[ Edited ]

I have a debit card with the visa symbol so I can use it how I wish. It's a case by case basis for me. However, most of the time I am using it as a visa card. 

 

If it's a large purchase then I will use an actual credit card.

 

Several years ago my card was compromised a handful of times at gas stations which is why I now stick to Costco due to their safety protocol for their stations. I have had no further issues. I also check my checking account online almost every day. The three times that my card was compromised. I contacted the bank, I was immediately refunded the money while they did their investigation, so it really does depend on your comfort level.

 

I would recommend contacting your bank to see what their policies are. 

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,054
Registered: ‎11-02-2015

@gidgetgh wrote:

@tansy wrote:

After my debit card was breached several times, I no longer have one.


 

@tansy - and the thought of that possibly happening is why I stopped using mine. 


@gidgetgh @tansy    I gave up my debit card years ago.  It was also breached a few times.  I only use a credit card or cash.  I don't use an ATM either.  I write a check for cash at my bank and this works best for me.  

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,273
Registered: ‎01-04-2014

I'm another that uses a credit card for almost everything, then pay it off in full each month. I like the rewards that accumulate for using the credit card.

 

Whether using a credit card or debit the money comes out of the same checking account, so why not get rewarded for using the credit card?

 

I do use my debit at my bank's ATM for cash once a month. I like having money on me. As already stated, some restaurants give a discount for using cash. My favorite Chinese restaurant does.

 

Also like having cash on me because my church festivals, fish fries, bake sales prefer it. Also for emergencies. Last week had AAA jump start my car, easy to give her a tip.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,504
Registered: ‎01-13-2012

We have never used a bank debit card.  We use a credit card for just about everything and then pay off the balance each month.