Security

• For many people, security is of utmost importance when conducting financial transactions. Sending a check through the mail can create security problems. It is possible for identity thieves to intercept your check in the mail and steal your account information. On the other hand, identity thieves can also steal your debit card account information when you conduct unsecured online transactions with your debit card. You can help minimize the occurrence of identity theft by making sure you safeguard your account information and only conduct online transactions with merchants that offer encrypted secure websites. Ultimately, if you exercise caution, both checks and debit cards can offer security for financial transactions.
  
  

Acceptance

• The debit card has an advantage over the check when it comes to acceptance. Many businesses no longer accept checks. Merchants, on the other hand, generally accept debit cards if they also accept credit cards. Many debit cards issued by U.S. banks function on either the Visa or MasterCard network. When you pay for a purchase using the Visa or MasterCard network, funds automatically debit from your associated account at the time of purchase.
  
  

Records

• Keep records of all your financial transactions. Both checks and debit card receipts provide sufficient financial record of your transactions. With checks, banks normally keep copies of your canceled checks. With debit card purchases, you will normally receive a receipt for the transaction at the time of purchase. Additionally, with both checks and debit cards you can access transaction records on your monthly billing statement or on your online transaction history.
  
  

Convenience

• Convenience is always an important factor when you make a purchase. Merchants can typically process debit card transactions faster then check transactions. Many people also find it easier to swipe a debit card then to physically write a check. Additionally, checkbooks are larger in size then debit cards and less convenient to carry. For convenience, debit cards offer an advantage over checks.