Debit cards – whether physical or digital – are the key to an everyday bank account and the gateway to a range of benefits. You may want to consider how to maximise the potential of your debit card and understand the convenience and security on offer. There are also a few things to take note of, especially when using debit cards overseas. Here’s our guide to help you make the most of your debit card.
Before getting started with a debit card, you’ll need a linked everyday bank account, also known as a transaction account.
Westpac Choice is an everyday bank account with plenty of features to help you bank however it suits you. Opening a Westpac Choice everyday bank account entitles you to a linked Debit Mastercard®. Unlike a credit card account, a debit card allows you to access your own money, so it can be a prudent choice for everyday spending.
You can have multiple accounts linked to your debit card. There’s no annual card fee for your debit card, however monthly account fees may apply.
You can also use the digital card via the Westpac App while waiting for your physical plastic card to arrive in the mail, so you can get started buying, paying and withdrawing cash as soon as you need to.
Cheque, savings or credit? When you’re withdrawing cash in Australia, opt for the ‘Cheque’ or ‘Savings’ option at an ATM. If you’re overseas withdrawing cash from an ATM, choose the ‘Credit’ Option.
Enjoy fee-free ATM withdrawals at Westpac Group ATMs and select partner ATMs in Australia and overseas through the Global ATM Alliance. There are over 7,000 machines in the Westpac Group ATM network, and you can find one close to you via the Westpac App or Online Banking.
Use your Debit Mastercard for online shopping, in-store purchases and cash withdrawals at ATMs worldwide, wherever Mastercard is accepted.
When you see the contactless symbol on an EFTPOS machine, you’ll be able to use the Mastercard PayPass™ option, as long as your purchase is under $200. Simply tap your card over the reader, no PIN required.
To make purchases online, you’ll need to enter your card number, expiry date and three digit CVV number (found on the back of the card at the end of the signature strip).
There aren't many key differences between cheque and savings, because debit cards use all your own money. If you press ‘Cheque’ at an ATM or payment terminal, the purchase will come out of your everyday transaction account. If you select ‘Savings’, it will come out of your savings account. If there are no specific savings accounts linked to your debit card, the purchase will come out of your everyday transaction account, which is usually the case.
If you do have a savings account linked, it's important to check whether you'll still be earning interest or receiving a bonus rate rate by choosing 'Savings'.
Selecting credit means a transaction fee might apply. There may be a minimum spend on credit card transactions, and you'll need to pay your credit card provider in time to avoid being charged interest. So, it's important to choose the right account when you’re withdrawing cash.
For those who prefer a digital approach, or occasionally leave their wallet behind, Westpac offers a digital version of your debit card through the Westpac App. This contactless card has all the functionalities of your physical card, so you can use it for online shopping, bill payments and in-store shopping. You may want to add it to your smartphone or watch’s digital wallet for quick contactless payments on your mobile or wearable device.
You can make unlimited debit transactions with your linked card, however if you don’t have enough cash to cover a purchase, your card may be declined at checkout and you won’t be able to withdraw money from an ATM.
Quick Balance can help you stay on top of the available funds in your account. After logging in, swipe left from the sign in screen of your Westpac Mobile banking app to display your recent transactions and the available balance of up to 3 eligible bank accounts.
If you lose your card, don’t panic. The Card on Hold feature – accessible through Online Banking or the Westpac App – allows you to lock it temporarily in seconds. It’s probably at the bottom of your bag or down the back of the sofa, but best to be on the safe side.
Card on Hold also temporarily locks the digital version of your card, plus mobile wallets and wearables. You can unlock your card 24/7, so this feature ensures you maintain control over your financial security.
As part of the Westpac Fraud Money Back Guarantee, Westpac reimburses any unauthorised transaction claims, as long as you’re not liable for the loss and you contact us promptly to make a claim.
Finally, the dynamic CVC refreshes your card’s security number every 24 hours, which may help reduce the risk of fraud.
Our toll-free Call Centre is here to help with any security or account queries, whether you’re in Australia or abroad. Call 13 33 30 between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Saturday if you’re in Australia. Use the number for Overseas Assistance on the back of your debit card if you’re abroad.
One of the benefits of being a Debit Mastercard holder is access to the Mastercard® Priceless® Cities program, which offers unique perks and experiences in over 40 cities around the world. There’s a range of dining, shopping and sporting experiences across the globe, as well as exciting hotel and entertainment offers.
Your debit card is more than just a tool for transactions, it’s the access point to a range of advantages linked to your Westpac Choice account. Whether you’re withdrawing cash, shopping in-person or online, or using it to pay overseas, making the most of your debit card can help make your banking more convenient and rewarding!
For Westpac issued products, conditions, fees and charges apply. These may change or we may introduce new ones in the future. Full details are available on request. This information does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. Consider its appropriateness to these factors before acting on it. Read the disclosure documents for your selected product or service, including the Terms and Conditions, before deciding. Target Market Determinations for the products are available.
Fees and charges may apply for international money transfers.
The information in this article is general in nature (including any tax information provided) and does not take your objectives, financial situation or needs into account and does not constitute tax advice. Consider its appropriateness to these factors; and we recommend you seek independent professional legal and/or financial advice about your specific circumstances before making any decisions.