Debit Card – Signature or PIN?

When you have the choice, choose “credit” – At the point-of-sale, press “credit” and sign the receipt rather than entering your PIN.

At many merchant locations, you are given the choice of “debit” or “credit” when you present your HCFCU Debit Card. By choosing “credit” you will gain several distinct advantages over “debit “.

Quicker and easier
When you choose “credit” you’ll simply be given a receipt to sign, then you’re on your way. You eliminate one step of the authorization process and it makes no difference to the merchant.

Less chance of someone stealing your card information
Any time your enter your PIN, you risk becoming the victim of a “shoulder-surfer”, someone who looks over your shoulder and sees the number you enter. If that person is able to obtain your HCFCU Debit Card account number, you could become the victim of card fraud. Cash could be accessed from your account at an ATM without your knowledge.

In situations where you must enter your PIN (such as when getting cash at an ATM location,) try to shield your hand from view as you enter your PIN.

No transaction fee
Sometimes there is a fee associated with PIN-based transactions. These fees vary, but they don’t apply to signature-based transactions. To avoid a transaction fees, press “credit”.

Enter your PIN when you want cash back
If you need cash back when you make a purchase with your HCFCU Debit Card, you’ll need to enter your PIN. This is standard procedure at most locations.

Your HCFCU Debit Card offers you a world of convenience. Give us a call if you have any questions about using your card, or if you want to find out more about the endless possibilities available to HCFCU Debit Cardholders.