Cash Substitute

• One of the most convenient things about the debit card is that it serves as a substitute for cash or checks. This allows consumers to not carry as much cash around with them, and many may not carry any at all. Thus it can be both a convenience and an additional safety measure. Further, if the debit card is lost or stolen, there is still time to protect the account holder, who gets no such benefit with cash.
  
  

Check Substitute

• Fewer merchants, especially major retailers, are accepting checks these days. Or, if they do, they make those checks an immediate electronic debit, which accomplishes the same thing as a debit card. However, the card does so without the inconvenience of writing checks and it can be used at many restaurants, many of which do not accept checks. Further, debit cards save consumers the trouble of ordering checks and it spares store personnel the task of depositing them.
  
  

Foreign Travel

• If you are traveling to places that have different currencies, debit cards offer a great deal of convenience. You may choose to bypass the foreign exchange and instead use an ATM or make purchases with the card. Be certain you keep careful tabs on the exchange rate, so you have a good idea of how much you are spending.
  
  

Cash Withdrawal

• Debit cards can also be used domestically as ATM cards. They allow access to your bank account for withdrawing money after hours or from a remote location. Further, you can use the cards to make deposits, transfers and other basic banking procedures. Some of these may incur a fee if done from an ATM location not owned by your bank.
  
  

Warning

• While debit cards can be very convenient, you should be aware of several cautions. Often, your bank may allow debits to go through even if there are insufficient funds, for which you will be penalized. Further, some retailers, especially gas stations, may place a hold on your account greater than the purchase amount for some transactions, especially when buying gasoline at the pump. This could mean you temporarily have less money in your account than you think.