Shopping with your Credit and Debit Card

DCU's vision is that all members achieve their financial goals. We believe that unbiased, detailed consumer education is essential for you to achieve your financial goals. Why are we different? Read it here.

By Will from Holland

Are you using your debit or credit cards a lot? Whichever card you’re using, be a smart user with these tips:

• Use your credit card for all purchases online. Credit cards give you leverage with a seller if you're not satisfied with a purchase.

• Using a debit card? Don't trust an ATM machine to tell you your balance! Check your online statement routinely.

• If you're shopping with your credit card, check your credit limit and don't go near it when you charge. Charging near your limit can lower your credit.

• Only take one credit card when you go shopping. Take the card that charges you the lowest rate and gives you the most benefits. Tip: that card will virtually always be a DCU card.

• Big tip: if you have credit or debit cards from a bank, not a credit union, see if the cards have an “arbitration clause.” If so, that bank is taking away your legal rights, according to consumer groups. Quit using them. And DCU? Of course, no bad clause!

The biggest tip: Look at DCU's credit or debit cards for young people before you start shopping. And check out FoolProof Solo on the right side of the DCU home page!

Cheers, Will.