Texans Debit Card FAQ’s and Tips
This is a great place to start before you have signed up for your Texans Debit Card or after you’ve had it for a while. You can use these resources as your first lifeline for any check card-related questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a fee to sign up for the Texans Debit Card?
A: No. There are no fees to sign up for our Texans Check Card.
Q: What are the fees associated with using the Texans Debit Card?
A: Texans will not charge any fees for signature and PIN-based transactions. Some merchants may charge for PIN-based transactions. There will be no fees for ATM transactions at any Texans-owned ATM’s.
Q: If I use my Texans Debit Card at another bank's ATM, am I eligible for free ATM withdrawals?
A: Members with Free or Interest Checking Accounts will get five free ATM withdrawals a month. Members with a Reward Checking Account will get unlimited free ATM withdrawals. When you use an ATM not owned by Texans, you may be charged a fee (sometimes known as a surcharge) by the ATM operator. Inquiries and Fund Transfers will still incur a fee.
Q: Do free ATM withdrawals using my Texans Debit Card include transfers and inquiries?
A: No. Free ATM transactions at other banks’ ATM’s apply to withdrawals* only. Transfers and inquiries will still be assessed a nominal fee from Texans – check out our Fee Schedule for more information.
Q: How does my Texans Debit Card work?
A: The Texans Debit Card is a multi-functional card that can be used for point-of-sale purchases, as well as at ATM’s. When using the debit card for a purchase, the money spent will be deducted from your checking account. To use the check card in an ATM, you must use your appointed Personal Identification Number (PIN). Debit card transactions will post to your monthly checking account statement. This free card can be used anywhere MasterCard® is accepted.
Q: So when I shop with the Texans Debit Card, I use it like any other credit card, right?
A: Right! Your Texans Debit Card will be accepted by merchants just like a credit card. The main differences are that purchases are deducted from your checking account and you pay no interest on the purchases you make.
Q: Will my Texans Debit Card purchases appear on my monthly checking account statement?
A: Yes. When you shop with your Texans Debit Card, the amount of purchase, date and the name of the place the purchase was made will appear on your monthly checking account statement, along with any checks written and ATM transactions.
Q: Can I still use my checks when I shop?
A: Yes, you can still use your checks when you shop. As always, the checks you write will be deducted from your checking account. However, many people choose to use only their Texans Debit Card when shopping for convenience reasons. A debit card is beneficial when traveling, considering that many merchants don't accept out-of-town checks.
Q: How is the Texans Debit Card more convenient than shopping with checks or cash?
A: Your Texans Debit Card is faster and easier to use because it lets you access your checking account without taking the time to write a check. It also eliminates the inconveniences of carrying a checkbook or running out of checks. Plus, you don't have to carry large amounts of cash. Debit card transactions can come through quickly, maintaining a more accurate balance in your checking account.
Q: Can I use the Texans Debit Card to set up automatic bill payments from my checking account?
A: Sure! It's easy to set up automatic withdrawals from your checking account for recurring payments, like cable, telephone, health club, newspaper, etc. Just provide the account information requested by the biller.
Q: What should I do if my Texans Debit Card is lost or stolen?
A: You should immediately call 800.472.3272, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to report your card as lost or stolen. By reporting the loss or theft, you will have zero liability1 for any unauthorized purchases made with the lost or stolen card.
Q: Am I protected if my Texans Debit Card is lost or stolen?
A: Yes. Once you have reported your card lost or stolen, we'll cancel the card to prevent misuse and issue you a replacement card. By reporting the loss or theft, you will have zero liability1 for any unauthorized purchases made with that card. For additional information, contact Texans at 214.348.2143.
Q: What if I have a dispute about a purchase transaction on my statement?
A: Report any disputes to any Texans branch office or by calling 972.348.2143 or 800.843.5295, ext. 2143.
Q: What should I do if I plan to travel and use my ATM or debit card?
A: If you plan to travel and use your debit card, to prevent an interruption in service, you must notify the credit union of your travel plans by calling 972.348.2000 (800.843.5295) or by visiting a Texans branch. Please mention your destination(s) and dates of travel. A travel flag will be placed on your card. Once the travel flag has been placed, if you encounter any issues, please contact us toll free at 1.800.843.5295.
You can also check out our article, “Traveling with Your Texans Debit Card”, for helpful tips!
Debit Card Tips
- Your Texans Debit Card can be used for purchases, ATM withdrawals, deposits (Texans ATM’s only) or transfers, automatic payments, or online purchases. Depending on the merchant, funds may be deducted from your checking account up to a few days following the transaction.
- When making a purchase with your Texans Debit Card, you will be asked whether it is a "credit" or "debit" transaction. Although these options require different forms of authorization, the money still comes out of your checking account within a few days.
- The "credit" option requires that you sign for your purchase.
- The "debit" option requires that you enter your PIN into the point-of-sale keypad.
- Funds are put on hold for a limited time whenever a debit card transaction (debit or credit) is made. The amount of the hold will be deducted from the "Actual Balance" when the merchant processes the transaction, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. In some cases, a merchant will obtain a pre-authorized hold for an amount more or less than the actual purchase - example: gas stations, restaurants, hotels and other merchants where the actual purchase amount is determined after the service has been provided. Keep this in mind when using your check card for these types of purchases.
- Your Texans Debit Card uses a security feature which determines certain usage patterns. When these patterns deviate, it could trigger a security alert and you may receive a telephone call or letter confirming that you have made certain purchases. The caller will identify themselves as a representative of the Texans Credit Union Card Processing Center. They will not ask you for an account number or PIN. Anytime you are doubtful about the identity of the individual calling concerning your account, do not give information about your card, but contact Texans Credit Union instead.
- Your PIN for your Texans Debit Card is not the same as your PIN used for Texans' 24 Hour Account Information Line. The PIN used for Texans’ 24 Hour Account Information Line is your original ATM PIN. For assistance, please call the Member Service Center at 972.348.2000 or 800.843.5295.
- Never write down your PIN or carry it with your card. Memorize it instead.
- If your Texans Debit Card is lost or stolen, you should report it immediately by calling 800.472.3272. If you need additional information once you have reported a card lost or stolen, call Texans at 972.348.2143.
*Member responsible for fees charged by other banks’ ATMs.
1. Zero liability applies to purchases made in the store, over the telephone or made online. As a MasterCard cardholder you will not be responsible in the event of unauthorized purchases provided that the following preconditions are met: Your account is in good standing, you have exercised reasonable care in safeguarding your card from any unauthorized use (Failure to register certain cards will be considered as not safeguarding your card.), and you have not reported two or more unauthorized events in the past 12 months.
