What is a temporary debit card and how does it work?

Ever waited days or weeks for a debit card to arrive in the mail? Temporary debit cards can help bridge the gap, giving immediate access to funds until a permanent card arrives.

Read on to learn what a temporary debit card is and how it works.

What is a temporary debit card?

A temporary debit card is a short-term debit card that enables users to access funds in their checking account while they wait for the permanent debit card. These temporary cards can come in different forms, such as:

• Physical temporary debit cards: Some banks offer temporary debit cards in physical form and will include the electronic information needed to be used for in-person or online purchases.
• Virtual temporary debit card: A virtual debit card is a wholly digital version of the temporary card. Cardholders can use these to make online purchases and — depending on provider terms and mobile wallet availability — for some in-person purchases.
• Prepaid debit cards: Prepaid debit cards may also be available. These may be virtual or physical and are preloaded with a fixed amount that can be used in a similar way to other debit cards until the balance is spent.

When someone might get a temporary debit card

Getting a temporary debit card is common after opening a new checking account with the debit card function included. Banks will also provide a temporary card to replace a lost or stolen card. In both instances, immediate access is granted to funds while waiting for the new, permanent card to arrive.

How does a temporary debit card work?

A temporary debit card typically functions like a regular card, with a number, expiry date, security code, and PIN. These details may be the same or different to the permanent card.

Depending on the bank or provider, the card may need to be activated before use. A temporary card is valid until the permanent card arrives, though the exact validity period can differ depending on the bank.

Because these cards are temporary, they’re also limited. They have a short expiry date, certain vendors may not accept them, and some cards may only be used for online purposes.

Using a temporary debit card

While there may be different terms or conditions for temporary debit card usage depending on provider and card, they function similarly to a regular debit card. Some common questions regarding temporary debit cards may be:

• Can a temporary debit card be used online? Yes, a temporary debit card can work for online transactions similarly to a regular debit card.
• Can a temporary debit card be used in-store? Typically, temporary cards can work for in-person purchases at stores and with vendors. If it's a physical card, it can be used through a chip, PIN, or swipe method. If it's virtual, it can be used through a merchant’s contactless payment terminal with a smartphone app or digital wallet.
• Can a temporary debit card be used at an ATM? If the card is physical and has been set up for ATM use, money may be withdrawn from ATMs – though there may be limits on how often it can be used or how much can be withdrawn.