Most banks include a debit card, but not all, and you may need to request it
When you open a checking account at most banks, a debit card comes with it — but "comes with it" does not always mean it arrives in your welcome packet. Some banks send it automatically a few days after your account opens. Others require you to request one, either in person at the branch, by phone, or through their website or app. A few banks, particularly some credit unions and online-only institutions, do not offer debit cards at all, or offer them only to members who meet certain conditions.
The best time to ask is when you are sitting down to open the account. Tell the banker or representative that you want a debit card, and ask them to confirm whether it will be mailed to you automatically or whether you need to take a separate step. If you are opening the account online, look for a checkbox or option labeled "request debit card" before you finish. If you do not see one, call the bank's customer service number after your account is open and ask them to order one for you.
Key Takeaways
- Most large banks and many credit unions send a debit card automatically when you open a checking account, though it may take several business days to arrive.
- Some banks require you to request a debit card separately, either at the branch, by phone, or online — ask at the time you open the account which applies to you.
- A small number of banks do not offer debit cards, or offer them only to customers who maintain a minimum balance or meet other conditions.
- If your debit card has not arrived within two weeks of opening your account, contact the bank to confirm they ordered one and check the mailing address on file.
What happens if your bank does not offer debit cards
If you have chosen a bank that does not issue debit cards — or if you are not yet may be able to access for one — you have other ways to access your money. You can withdraw cash from an ATM using your PIN and your debit card's alternative, which some banks call a cash card or ATM card. You can also visit a branch and ask a teller to withdraw cash for you, though this requires you to go in person during business hours.
For paying for things without cash, you have fewer options. You can write a check if the business accepts them, though many do not anymore. Some banks offer a prepaid card or reloadable card that you can link to your checking account and use like a debit card, but this is less common. If your bank offers neither a debit card nor these alternatives, it may be worth asking whether they plan to issue you one once you have had the account for a certain length of time, or whether switching to a different bank makes sense for your needs.
How long it takes to receive your debit card
Standard mail delivery usually takes five to ten business days from the time the bank orders your card. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a small fee — usually two to five dollars — if you need the card faster. A few banks can issue a temporary digital card that works when ready in their app or online, while you wait for the physical card to arrive in the mail.
If you are opening your account in person at a branch, ask whether they can issue a card on the spot. Some branches have machines that can print a basic debit card while you wait, though these are less common than they used to be. If the branch cannot print one when ready, ask for a written confirmation of when you should expect it to arrive, and what the mailing address is. If two weeks pass and the card has not shown up, call the bank's customer service line and ask them to check whether the order went through and whether the address on file is correct.
Debit cards from online-only banks
Banks that operate only online — with no physical branches — almost always include a debit card with checking accounts, because they cannot hand you cash across a counter. However, the card may take longer to arrive because the bank has no way to issue it in person. Most online banks mail the card within five to ten business days, and some offer the option to pay for faster shipping.
Online banks typically let you see your card details in the app or website before the physical card arrives, so you can use it for online purchases right away. This is called a virtual card or digital card. You can usually add it to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay within hours of opening the account, which means you can pay with your phone at stores that accept contactless payments before the physical card even arrives.
What to do if you do not want a debit card
If your bank sends you a debit card and you do not want it, you do not have to use it. You can straightforward leave it in a drawer. However, some banks charge a small monthly fee for debit cards — usually one to three dollars — even if you never use it. If this applies to your bank, you can call customer service and ask them to close the card or waive the fee.
Closing the card is different from closing the account. Closing the card means the bank will not charge you for it and you cannot use it, but your checking account stays open. You can still access your money by visiting a branch, using an ATM, writing checks, or setting up direct deposit and automatic bill pay. If you think you might want a debit card later, ask whether the bank will reissue one for free or whether you would have to pay a replacement fee.
Debit cards at credit unions
Credit unions — which are member-owned financial institutions similar to banks — usually include debit cards with checking accounts, but the rules vary by credit union. Some credit unions issue the card automatically, while others require you to request one. A few smaller credit unions do not offer debit cards at all, or offer them only to members who have been with the credit union for a certain amount of time or who maintain a minimum balance.
When you join a credit union, ask the person helping you set up your account whether a debit card is included and when it will arrive. If the credit union does not offer debit cards, ask whether there is a timeline for when they might start, or whether they offer ATM cards or other ways to access your money. Credit unions are often more flexible than banks about working with members who are new to banking, so it is worth asking what options they have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my checking account without a debit card?
Yes. You can withdraw cash at ATMs, visit a branch to withdraw cash in person, write checks, set up direct deposit for paychecks, and pay bills through automatic transfers or online bill pay. A debit card is convenient but not required to use a checking account.
What if I lose my debit card or it gets stolen?
Call your bank when ready — the phone number is usually on the back of the card or on your bank statement. The bank will cancel the card and order a replacement, which typically arrives within five to ten business days. Most banks do not charge for replacement cards, though some charge a small fee after the first one.
Do I have to pay for a debit card?
Most banks do not charge for a debit card itself, but some charge a monthly fee if you have one, even if you do not use it. A few banks charge a fee only if you request a replacement card. Ask your bank about any fees before you open the account, or check your account agreement.
Can I get a debit card if I have bad credit or no credit history?
Yes. Debit cards are not based on credit — they use money that is already in your checking account. Banks do not check your credit score to issue a debit card. However, some banks do check ChexSystems, a banking history report, before opening any account. If you have been denied accounts before, ask the bank what their policy is.
What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card?
A debit card pulls money directly from your checking account when you use it. A credit card borrows money from the card company, which you pay back later. Debit cards do not build credit history; credit cards do. Debit cards have less fraud protection in some cases, though federal law limits your liability.