"Debit or credit?" You've probably heard that question asked many times when you hand the cashier your Debit Card. It seems the obvious answer would be debit, after all it is a debit card. Often times "credit" is the right answer.

Using your Debit Card as a debit transaction requires you to use your PIN. This option works great in situations where you may need cash back or the retailer only allows debit transactions.

Using your Debit Card as a credit works slightly different. When saying "credit," this means you will sign a credit slip for your transaction, just like you would if you were using an actual credit card. When you choose the credit option, the money for your purchase comes out of your Share Draft/Checking Account just like a debit transaction. However, the amount of time for a credit transaction to clear your account does vary from a debit transaction. A credit transaction can take one to four business days to be withdrawn from your account. With a debit transaction, which means using your PIN, the money is withdrawn from your account right away.

Choosing to sign for your transaction instead of using your PIN benefits you and the credit union because it is more cost effective. This in turn helps us continue to offer you higher savings rates and lower loan rates. So, the next time you're out shopping with your Debit Card, give "credit" a try.