Can I choose my own debit card PIN?

If I select “credit” and use my debit card like a Visa card, will I receive a bill in the mail?

What’s the difference between the “debit” and the “credit” options?

When are debit card transactions deducted from my account?

What is a pending debit card transaction?

Why was just $1 for a gas purchase deducted from my available balance when the actual purchase was for a lot more?

I used my debit card to pay at the pump for gas. Why was there an additional hold on my account?

What happens if I use my debit card & I don’t have enough money in my account?

What if my debit card is lost or stolen?

If there is an error or suspicious transaction involving a debit card transaction, how do I report it?

 

Can I choose my own debit card PIN?
Yes, you can change your PIN at Virginia Credit Union ATMs. Access the ATM using your card and current PIN, choose “More Selections” on the ATM screen and follow the prompts to select your new PIN.

If I select “credit” and use my debit card like a Visa card, will I receive a bill in the mail?
No. Whether you use it like an ATM card with your 4-digit PIN or like a Visa® card, the money is deducted from your checking account. Items will appear on your checking statement.

What’s the difference between the “debit” and the “credit” options?

• Choose the "credit" option on the merchant's keypad and your purchase is processed through the Visa® network. The amount still comes out of your checking account, but you don't have to enter your PIN.
• Select the "debit" or "ATM" option on the merchant's keypad and you’ll be prompted for your PIN. The transaction is processed through the ATM network. Use this option to get cash back with your purchase.

When are debit card transactions deducted from my account?

• Transactions using your 4-digit PIN are deducted immediately. 
• Amounts authorized for non-PIN transactions will immediately reduce your checking account balance that is available for your next transaction. Then these items are posted to your account and deducted from your current balance within a few days, when VACU receives the final transaction amounts. 

What is a pending debit card transaction?
This is a transaction that has been submitted by a merchant for authorization but has not yet been posted to your account and deducted from your current balance. Please remember that when you initiate a transaction at a merchant and we authorize it, we will immediately reduce your balance that is available for your next transaction.

Why was just $1 for a gas purchase deducted from my available balance when the actual purchase was for a lot more?
Some gas stations submit amounts for card authorizations that are less or more than the final purchase amount. As with other debit card purchases, you are responsible for having the necessary funds in your account when the final transaction comes through.

I used my debit card to pay at the pump for gas. Why was there an additional hold on my account?
Some pay-at-the pump gas stations may submit a larger initial amount for authorization, such as $75 or $100, to see if you have funds to pay for a fill-up. Those pre-authorizations may result in an additional temporary hold on your account that could be for a few hours or even several days.

If you’re concerned that a merchant may submit a larger authorization hold amount on your checking account than you’re comfortable with:

• Rather than pay at the pump, you could go inside and pay in advance for a fixed dollar amount to be authorized, such as $30 worth of gas
• You may wish to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card
• Pay with cash

What happens if I use my debit card & I don’t have enough money in my account?
If you don’t have the available funds for the amount authorized, your transaction may be declined. You may avoid this by signing up for Overdraft Protection transfers from savings or a line of credit, and/or you may authorize VACU to consider paying overdrafts on ATM & debit card transactions. Please be aware that fees apply for Overdraft Protection transfers & if you have authorized VACU to consider paying ATM & debit card overdrafts.

What if my debit card is lost or stolen?
Call Cardholder Services toll-free 24-hours a day at (800) 449-7728. The Electronic Funds Transfer Disclosure you received with your card has complete details. Safeguard your PIN. Don't keep it in your wallet, checkbook, or anywhere else near your debit card.

If there is an error or suspicious transaction involving a debit card transaction, how do I report it?
Call Cardholder Services toll-free 24 hours a day at (800) 449-7728. A representative will take your report and mail you the necessary forms to complete and return. In the case of merchant errors, it may also be possible for you to correct the error by contacting the merchant directly.

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