Plastic has become a very real part of our everyday lives. Still, some folks resist using a debit card.
"A debit card also known as a check card is really fast and easy to use. It offers security and it's a great way to manage your money,” said Judith Whitfield, debit card manager for Central Pacific Bank.
The security of the card appeals to a number of consumers.
"Financial institutions today offer protection against fraud use,” she said. "There's also a three digit code on the back of your card that identifies you when you use it on the internet or for a phone purchase."
When you use your debit card, you may be given the option to sign the receipt rather than entering your personal identification number.
"And if you use your debit card as a signature transaction where you actually sign for your transaction versus using your PIN, then for example, VISA offers zero liability protection which protects you against unauthorized use,” said Whitfield.
If you pay your bills with a check, you never know when that check is going to be cashed - not so with the debit card.
"Transactions are posted normally within about 24 hours when you use your card. And you can go on line or use the phone system that your bank offers to check your balances and your transaction history,” she said.
Finally, Whitfield says, many financial institutions offer rewards to those customers who choose to use debit cards.
"It's really important that you know how to take advantage of your reward program that your bank offers and knowing how you can earn the most points with your debit card."
