Checking account vs debit card

While checking accounts and debit cards are often presented by banks as a package deal, it’s important to understand the difference.

A checking account provides you with access to funds through deposits and withdrawals. When you open a new checking account, you can apply to receive a debit card.

Think of your debit card like a key to accessing the funds in your account. A debit card is a payment card that is linked to the funds in your account and can be used to withdraw or deposit cash at ATMs and be used at both in-person and online retailers. When you use your debit card to pay for goods or services, those funds will be deducted from your checking account balance.

Difference between a checking account and debit card

    Can you have a debit card without a checking account?

    Yes. If you do not have access to a bank account, whether it be due to identity theft recovery or otherwise, pre-paid debit cards can be a great alternative. Pre-paid debit cards need to be loaded with money, and you can buy one at a local store or online††. A pre-paid card can also be used to withdraw money from an ATM, just like a standard debit card.

    Is the checking account number on a debit card?

    No. The number shown on the debit card is the card number, not the checking account number. The checking account number can be found along the bottom of a check, on a bank statement, or through an online banking platform. If you are unable to locate your account number, you can contact your bank’s customer service department§§.

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    Can you have multiple debit cards for one checking account?

    An individual bank account is opened by one person and owned by that person, and the funds can only be accessed by that individual with one debit card. But for a joint checking account, banks can provide you with a debit card for each person listed on the account¥¥.

    How can I withdraw money from a checking account without a debit card?

    There a few ways to make a withdrawal without a debit card or ATM card. Tellers and employees at a bank branch can be very helpful in making withdrawals. If you have a checkbook, writing a check made out to cash will get your cash without an ATM. You can give your check to the bank teller or to a cashier at a local retailer to receive your funds in return†††.

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    † Peter Carleton. “Checking accounts vs. debit cards: 5 big differences.” Updated April 16, 2020.

    ‡ Jake Frankenfield. “What Is a Checking Account?” Investopedia.com. Updated April 14, 2020.

    § Chris Moon. “What is a Checking Account and How Does it Work?” ValuePenguin.com. Accessed April 2020.

    ¥ Spencer Tierney. “What Is a Debit Card?” NerdWallet.com. Updated January 28, 2019.

    †† “Prepaid Cards” Consumer.gov. Accessed on August 26, 2020.

    ‡‡ Justin Pritchard. “How to Live With No Bank Account.” TheBalance.com. Updated March 19, 2020.

    §§ Shen Lu. “Where Is The Account Number on a Check and What Is It For?” MagnifyMoney.com. Updated January 31, 2019.

    ¥¥ Amy Wright. “Understanding joint bank accounts – How do they work?” BBVAUSA.com. Updated June 8, 2018.

    ††† Lori Hubbard. “How to Withdraw Money Without an ATM Card.” PocketSense.com. Updated October 20, 2018.

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