Yes, Ally Bank checking accounts include a debit card at no extra cost

When you open an Ally Bank checking account, you get a debit card automatically. You do not pay a separate fee for the card itself — it comes as part of the account. The card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days after your account is opened, and you can use it to withdraw cash from ATMs, make purchases at stores, and pay online.

Ally Bank is an online-only bank, which means it has no physical branches. Because of this, the debit card becomes your main way to access your money in person. You can also transfer funds to another bank account, write checks (if you order them), or use the Ally mobile app to send money to other people.

Key Takeaways

  • Ally Bank checking accounts come with a debit card included at no additional charge.
  • Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you open the account.
  • You can use the card at any ATM that accepts Visa, and Ally reimburses out-of-network ATM fees up to a certain amount each month.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, you can freeze it when ready through the Ally mobile app or call customer service to report it.

What the Ally debit card looks like and how it works

The Ally debit card is a Visa card, which means it works anywhere Visa is accepted — at grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and online retailers. When you use it, the money comes directly from your checking account balance. Unlike a credit card, you cannot spend more than you have in the account.

The card has your name printed on it and a 16-digit card number, expiration date, and security code on the back. You will also receive a PIN (personal identification number) in a separate mailing, which you use when you withdraw cash from ATMs or when a store asks you to enter a PIN instead of signing.

ATM access and out-of-network fees

Ally Bank does not operate its own ATM network. Instead, you can use your debit card at ATMs that display the Visa Plus or Allpoint logos — these are found at many grocery stores, convenience stores, and other locations. The Allpoint network alone has over 55,000 ATMs worldwide.

When you use an ATM that is not part of Ally's partner networks, you may be charged a fee by that ATM's operator. Ally reimburses these out-of-network fees, up to a certain amount per month. Check your account terms or the Ally website for the current reimbursement limit, as this can change.

Replacing a lost or damaged card

If your debit card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can report it through the Ally mobile app or by calling Ally customer service. You can freeze your card when ready through the app, which stops anyone from using it until you unfreeze it or receive a replacement.

Ally will mail you a replacement card at no charge. The new card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. While you wait, you can still access your money through ATM withdrawals using your PIN (if you remember it), transfers to another bank account, or checks if you have ordered them.

Using your card internationally

You can use your Ally debit card outside the United States, since it is a Visa card. However, Ally charges a foreign transaction fee of 1% on purchases made in a currency other than US dollars. ATM withdrawals abroad may also incur fees from the ATM operator, though Ally's out-of-network reimbursement may cover some of these costs depending on the amount.

Before traveling, let Ally know your travel dates through the app or by calling customer service. This helps prevent your card from being blocked due to unusual activity in a different country.

Card controls and security features

The Ally mobile app lets you control your debit card without calling customer service. You can freeze and unfreeze the card, set spending limits by category (such as groceries or gas), turn card-not-present transactions on or off (which blocks online purchases if you want), and receive alerts when the card is used.

Ally also offers zero-liability protection, which means you are not responsible for unauthorized charges if your card is stolen or used fraudulently. Report unauthorized transactions as soon as you notice them, and Ally will investigate and refund the amount.

Ordering checks if you need them

Although your debit card handles most payments, you may occasionally need to write a check — for example, to pay rent or a utility bill. Ally does not print checks automatically, but you can order them through the app or website. You pay for the checks themselves (the cost varies depending on the design and quantity), but Ally does not charge a fee to process your check orders.

Checks typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Until they arrive, you can use your debit card, transfers, or the Ally mobile app's bill pay feature to make payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement debit card faster than 7 to 10 days?

Standard replacement cards take 7 to 10 business days. Ally does not offer expedited card shipping. If you need cash urgently, you can withdraw from an ATM using your PIN, or transfer money to another bank account and withdraw from there.

What happens if I forget my PIN?

You can reset your PIN through the Ally mobile app or by calling customer service. A new PIN will be mailed to you, or you can set a temporary PIN when ready through the app to use at ATMs while you wait for the permanent one.

Can I use my debit card to get cash back at stores?

Yes. When you make a purchase at a store that accepts Visa, you can ask the cashier for cash back. The amount is deducted from your checking account along with your purchase. This is often faster and cheaper than using an ATM.

Is there a daily limit on how much I can withdraw with my debit card?

Ally sets a daily ATM withdrawal limit, which you can view in the app or by calling customer service. The limit can usually be increased if you request it, though there may be a waiting period. Check your account terms for the current limit.

What if my debit card is compromised but I still want to use my checking account?

You can freeze your card through the app while keeping your account open. You can still write checks, transfer money between accounts, and set up automatic bill payments. Once you receive your replacement card, you can unfreeze the old one or destroy it.