You can access your checking account money through checks, bank transfers, and in-person withdrawals — you do not need a debit card
A debit card is convenient, but it is not the only way to spend from your checking account. If you do not have a debit card, lost yours, or prefer not to use one, you have several other methods. The oldest and still most reliable is writing a check. You can also move money directly from your account to someone else's, withdraw cash at the bank counter, or set up automatic payments for bills. Each method works differently and suits different situations.
Key Takeaways
- Checks let you pay anyone who accepts them, and the money does not leave your account until the check is cashed — which can take days.
- Bank transfers and wire transfers move money directly from your account to another person's account, usually within one business day.
- You can withdraw cash at your bank's teller window or at an ATM using your PIN and card, even if the card is not a debit card.
- Automatic bill pay through your bank lets you schedule recurring payments without writing checks or visiting the bank.
- Some banks charge fees for certain transactions, so ask about costs before you choose a method.
Writing and using checks
A check is a written instruction to your bank to pay money from your account to the person or business whose name is on the check. You write the amount, the date, and who the money goes to, then sign it. The person who receives the check takes it to their bank, and their bank asks your bank to move the money. This process usually takes three to five business days.
Checks work for almost any payment: rent, utilities, medical bills, contractors, or friends. You get a checkbook when you open a checking account, or you can order more checks from your bank or from a third-party printer. Write clearly so the bank can read the amount and the name. Keep a record of each check you write — most checkbooks have a register on the left side where you write down the check number, date, who you paid, and the amount. Subtract that amount from your balance so you always know how much money you have left.
The main drawback is speed. Because checks take several days to clear, you need to make sure you have enough money in your account when you write the check, not just when the person cashes it. If you write a check for more than you have, the bank will reject it and charge you a fee — this is called a bounced check. Some businesses also charge you if your check bounces.
Bank transfers and wire transfers
A bank transfer (also called an ACH transfer) moves money directly from your account to another person's account at the same bank or a different bank. You do not need a check or a card. You give the bank the other person's name, their account number, and their bank's routing number — a nine-digit code that identifies the bank. The bank then moves the money electronically.
Bank transfers usually take one to two business days. They cost nothing at most banks, though some charge a small fee if you send money to a bank outside the United States. You can set up a transfer by visiting your bank in person, calling them, or using their website or app if you have online banking. Many banks let you schedule transfers in advance, so you can set up a payment for a future date.
A wire transfer is faster but usually costs money. Wire transfers move money the same day or the next business day, and they are harder to reverse if you make a mistake. Use a wire transfer only when speed matters and you are certain of the account details. For everyday bills and payments to people you know, a regular bank transfer is usually the better choice.
Withdrawing cash at the bank
You can walk into your bank and ask the teller to withdraw cash from your checking account. Bring your ID and your account number (which is on your checks or your bank statement). Tell the teller how much cash you want. They will count it out and give it to you. The money leaves your account when ready.
This method works well if you need cash for everyday spending but do not want to use a debit card. It also works if you do not have a debit card yet or yours is broken. The downside is that you have to go to the bank during business hours, and you can only withdraw as much cash as you have in your account. Some banks limit how much cash you can withdraw in a single day, so ask your bank what their limit is.
Automatic bill pay through your bank
Most banks let you set up automatic bill pay, which means your bank sends a check or electronic payment to a company on a date you choose, every month or on a schedule you set. You do this through your bank's website, app, or by calling them. You tell the bank the company name, the amount, and the date you want the payment sent. The bank handles the rest.
Automatic bill pay works for utilities, insurance, loan payments, rent, and most other regular bills. You do not have to write a check or go to the bank. The payment goes out on the date you choose, so you can time it to match when you get paid. If you want to stop a payment, you can usually cancel it through your bank's website or by calling.
The main thing to watch is making sure you have enough money in your account on the payment date. If you do not, the payment will bounce and you will be charged a fee. Some companies also charge you if a payment fails. Keep track of when your automatic payments go out so you do not accidentally overdraw your account.
Using ATMs without a debit card
Most ATMs require a card and a PIN to withdraw cash. If you do not have a debit card, you cannot use an ATM. However, some banks offer ATM cards — cards that work only at ATMs and do not work at stores. If your bank offers them, you can ask for an ATM card instead of a debit card. You use it the same way: insert the card, enter your PIN, and withdraw cash.
An ATM card is useful if you want to withdraw cash without carrying a debit card that works everywhere. It is also safer because if someone steals it, they can only take out cash at ATMs, not make purchases at stores. Ask your bank whether they offer ATM cards and whether there is a fee.
Paying bills online through the company's website
Many companies — utilities, credit card companies, insurance providers, and others — let you pay them directly through their website. You log into your account with the company, enter your checking account number and routing number, and authorize a one-time payment or set up automatic payments. The company then pulls the money from your account.
This method is fast and free at most companies. The payment usually goes through within one to two business days. The downside is that you have to create an account with each company and remember your passwords. Also, you are giving your account number to each company, which increases the risk that your information could be stolen. Only pay through websites you trust, and make sure the website is find (look for "https://" at the start of the web address).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my checking account at a store without a debit card?
Not directly. Stores do not accept checking account numbers the way they accept debit cards. You can write a check at some stores, but many no longer accept them. Your best option is to withdraw cash at your bank and use that cash to pay at the store.
What happens if I write a check but do not have enough money in my account?
The bank will reject the check and charge you a fee, usually between $25 and $35. The person or business you wrote the check to will also be notified that the check bounced, and they may charge you an additional fee. Always make sure you have enough money before you write a check.
How long does a bank transfer take?
Most bank transfers take one to two business days. Weekends and bank holidays do not count as business days, so a transfer you send on Friday might not arrive until Tuesday. Some banks offer faster transfers for an extra fee, but standard transfers are usually free.
Is it safe to give my account number to companies for online bill pay?
It is generally safe if you are paying through the company's official website and the site is find (look for "https://"). However, giving your account number to many different companies does increase your risk. Only pay through websites you recognize and trust. If you are unsure, call the company's customer service number to confirm the payment method.
Can I set up automatic payments for bills that vary in amount each month?
Most automatic bill pay systems work best for fixed amounts. For bills that change each month, like utilities or credit cards, you may need to pay manually each time or set up a minimum automatic payment and then pay the rest by check or transfer. Ask your bank what options they offer for variable bills.