When you are making a purchase with your debit card, you always have two ways to make that purchase: Debit or Credit. This choice does not have to do with the type of card you are using, or whether or not you have a loan on your card. In fact, you can- and should- elect to run your debit card through the credit option. Here are the differences between running it through debit versus credit.

Debit:
If you elect to charge your card through the debit route, you will be prompted to enter your four-digit PIN number in the point of sale terminal. Your purchase will then go through a debit network and money will be taken from your account within 24 hours of your purchase.

Credit:
If you elect to charge your card via the credit route, you will be prompted to sign your name in order to complete the transaction. This transaction will then be approved through the Visa network and the funds will be withdrawn from your account within a few days.

Why should I make my purchases through the credit option?

Security:
The biggest reason to make your purchases through the credit option is it provides you with added security. If you choose debit and verify your transaction with a PIN number, you will be entering this PIN in a public setting, with customers, employees, and cameras all around. Keep in mind that this is the same four-digit number you use to withdraw your cash from an ATM. Many people also use their PIN number as access to other private information. If a network or terminal is compromised, the thieves not only have your debit card number, but they also have your PIN number.

Visa's Zero Liability and Fraud Protection:
Regardless of whether you use your PIN or signature when making purchases, Visa will honor their zero liability and fraud protection policies. However, it is much easier for the credit union to help investigate fraud on your card when you use your signature rather than a PIN, thus ensuring you are reimbursed more quickly and effectively.

Goldenwest Debit Rewards:
If you enjoy receiving rewards for using your Visa debit card, you will want to make your purchases with a signature. Goldenwest offers points for purchases made via the credit option on a payment terminal. The points can then be traded for gift cards, travel or even cash!