Last Updated on 06/06/2017 by GS Staff
[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”Q:” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color”][/otw_shortcode_dropcap] How long does it take to get a debit card?
[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”A:” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color”][/otw_shortcode_dropcap] Many people need a debit card for daily transactions. They need the ability to quickly access cash or to pay for goods. Most people want their new debit card sooner, rather than later. But, how long does it take to get a debit card?
The amount of time it takes to receive a debit card varies from bank to bank. However, we took a sampling of a selection of banks to see what they said their time frame was to get a debit card to a customer. This is assuming that the customer has already completed what was necessary for the bank to send out the card for use. Here is what we found:
Mailed Debit Card
- Bank of America – 4 to 6 business days
- TD Bank – 7 to 10 business days
- Santander Bank- 5 to 7 business days
- Barclays Bank – 5 to 7 business days if in the U.K. (longer for outside customers)
- TruBank – About 10 days
- Ally – Within 10 business days
- Regions – 5 to 7 business days
- M&T Bank – 7 to 10 business days
- Wells Fargo – 5 to 7 calendar days
Remember that banks will often mail the personal identification number (PIN) associated with the card separately for security reasons. There may be a lag of a day or two between when you receive the PIN and when you obtain the debit card.
Branch Debit Card
Some banks like PNC and TD Bank give customers the option to obtain a debit card at a branch location instead of through the mail. These type of debit cards can typically be issued and ready for use within a few minutes. Depending on the bank, these cards may be permanent or temporary until you receive your actual card in the mail . This is convenient if you do not have time to wait around for your card to be mailed. Additionally, obtaining a permanent card at a branch eliminates the possibility of card theft during the mailing process.
Final Notes
Contact your bank if you need a specific time frame of when you will receive your new card, if it is not listed above. Generally, your debit card should be mailed to you within about 7 days. If you need to obtain a debit card quickly, you may want to contact your local branch or customer service to see if they offer instant debit cards. You may want to ask if there is a fee associated with obtaining an instant debit card as opposed to waiting for the mailed card.