Smarter spending with your debit card

Key takeaways

  • Debit cards have many benefits — they're secure, convenient, can help you avoid debt, and can help you track your money in real time.
  • Debit cards offer the same strong protections that credit cards do.
  • A debit card is great to use as a tool to stay on track with your spending.

Many people think that their debit card is just a way to pay, but it's so much more than that. Besides being a free, built-in tool, there are numerous other benefits to using debit cards. They're safe and secure, convenient, empower you to spend confidently and help with money management, help you avoid debt and can help you track your money in real time.

Learn some practical tips on how to use your debit card to your advantage.

Why debit cards are the budget-friendly choice

There are plenty of reasons to reach for your debit card when making payments, especially with your monthly budget in mind. When you use your debit card, you're avoiding racking up debt and high interest charges that you would have when you use a credit card. With your debit card, your spending is limited to what's in your bank account. The real-time visibility of your checking account can also help you curb overspending.

Myth-busting: credit vs. debit

Credit cards are often seen as more secure — but in reality, debit cards offer the same strong protections your credit cards do. Modern debit cards include benefits like fraud alerts, zero liability1 on transactions you didn't make and 24/7 account monitoring. When you consider these benefits along with the budget-friendly ones, it's clear that using your debit card to pay for your purchases is just as beneficial as using your credit card.

How to use your debit card to better manage your finances

Debit cards are a practical way to pay, but there are some practical tips you can use to make them work even better for you.

  • Set up a dedicated spending account. Keep discretionary spending in a separate checking account that's linked to your debit card.
  • Use debit cards for everyday expenses. Doing this will help you keep your spending in check.
  • Turn on account alerts. Set balance limits and get instant notifications when you're nearing your limit.
  • Track spending digitally. Online and mobile banking apps2 make it easy to categorize your purchases and spot trends. If you also have a savings account, tools like Citizens Savings Tracker3 can help you monitor your spending and savings habits to reach your financial goals. Tip: Review your transactions weekly to stay connected to your spending habits.

Citizens' debit card features put you in control

When choosing how to pay, your debit card is a great option. It's safe and secure and puts you in control of your finances. With features designed to help you manage your money, your Citizens debit card makes everyday spending smarter.

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© Citizens Financial Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Citizens is a brand name of Citizens Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

1 The Citizens Zero Liability coverage protects you from being held responsible for unauthorized transactions on your Citizens debit card when reported promptly. Claims of unauthorized use are subject to verification and investigation. For more information, please visit our Zero Liability page.

2 Wireless carrier, text, and/or data charges may apply.

3 Subject to account eligibility. Only available on the Citizens mobile banking app. Text and data rates may apply.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only as a service to the public and is not legal advice or a substitute for legal counsel. You should do your own research and/or contact your own legal or tax advisor for assistance with questions you may have on the information contained herein.