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The Complete Guide of How to Use a Contactless Debit Card

Written by Ashley Balch | September 13, 2022

Do you have a contactless debit card? If not, you're missing out! These cards are a breeze to use and can help you save time and money.

In this guide, we'll teach you everything you need to know about contactless debit cards. We'll explain what they are, how to use them, and the benefits they offer.

What Is a Contactless Debit Card?

A contactless debit card is just like your current card, it just allows you to make transactions without having to swipe or insert it into a card reader.

Most contactless debit cards use Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to make transactions. NFC is a short-range wireless technology that allows devices (like your contactless debit card and your smartphone) to communicate with each other when they are within a few centimeters of each other.

This guide will show you how to use your contactless debit card for everyday transactions, as well as how to use it for online and international purchases.

 

How Do Contactless Debit Cards Work?

If you're new to contactless debit cards, you might be wondering how they work. In short, they allow you to make payments with a wave of your card. Here's a breakdown of how it all works:

Your card is equipped with a special chip that holds your payment information. When you're ready to make a payment, just hold your card near the contactless terminal and wait for the beep or green light. The terminal will read your chip and complete the payment.

It's important to note that not all merchants accept contactless payments, so be sure to ask before you try to pay this way.

 

Where Can I Use My Contactless Debit Card?

Now that you know how to use your contactless debit card, the next question is: where can you use it?

The good news is that contactless cards are accepted at millions of locations worldwide. So, whether you're shopping for groceries, grabbing a coffee, or paying for parking, your card should be able to handle it.

Just keep in mind that not all merchants have contactless readers, so there may be a few places where you'll need to swipe your card the old-fashioned way. But as contactless technology becomes increasingly popular, that's becoming less and less of an issue.

 

How Do I Pay With My Contactless Debit Card?

Now that you know all about contactless debit cards, let's take a look at how to use them. Contactless payments are incredibly easy, all you need to do is hold your card close to the reader, and the payment will go through automatically. No need to enter a PIN or sign anything!

If you're using your card in-store, simply look for the contactless symbol or the words 'Tap and Pay' and hold your card up to the reader. The transaction will be processed immediately, and you'll be on your way.

If you're using your card online or over the phone, just enter your card number and the expiration date as normal. 

 

What Are the Benefits of Using a Contactless Debit Card?

There are a number of benefits to using a contactless debit card. For starters, they're incredibly convenient, all you have to do is hold your card near the terminal and the payment will be processed automatically. This makes them perfect for busy lifestyles, as you don't have to worry about fumbling around for cash or your wallet at the checkout.

Another benefit is that contactless debit cards are typically much faster than chip and PIN cards. In fact, they're sometimes up to 10 times faster! So, if you're in a hurry, or you're paying for something that's time-sensitive (like a taxi ride), then a contactless debit card is a great option.

Finally, contactless debit cards are more secure than traditional cards. They have a built-in security feature called 'tokenization', which means that your card number is never stored on the terminal or shared with the merchant. This makes it much harder for thieves to steal your information.

Tap and go with your contactless debit card!

This convenient payment method is perfect for busy people who want to make transactions quickly and easily. Bank Independent is now introducing contactless debit cards and all customers will be moving to the new cards as your current card expires.

So, what are you waiting for? Start using your contactless debit card today!

@bank_independent Contactless debit cards are a great way to pay! Here’s a pro tip to help make it easier and faster to checkout! #positivedifference ♬ smiles & sunsets - ultmt.