Do I have to write a check?

The simple answer ... NO! Having a share draft checking account does not mean that you need to write a check to access the funds in your account. There are a number of options to get the funds and use it to purchase products and services. The 2 additional ways to use your funds are by using cash or electronically making a transaction.

I thought the point in the credit union was so I did not need to carry cash.

BayLands strongly encourages the use of the checks or electronic transactions as a way to protect yourself
by not having to carry cash around; however, there are a number of ways for you to get cash if you need it. The most obvious way for your to get cash from your share draft checking account is for you to come by the credit union and withdraw with a member of our Front Line Staff. Along those same lines, if you are not near a BayLands Branch ... you can withdraw the cash by using the staff at
a CU Service Center. The CU Service Center is a network of branch facilities that allows you access to your credit union accounts without having to be in that credit union's branch. The most convenient way to
get cash is through the use of an automated teller machine (ATM).

ATMs allow you to get cash, transfer money, or make deposits from almost anywhere and anytime. VISA Debit or ATM cards are available to the membership when you open a Share Draft Checking Account or a Share Savings Account. The VISA Debit card is only available to you with Share Draft Checking Accounts and can access and deposit account with the BayLands. The ATM is available if you only have a savings account with the credit union. Both of the cards come with a special Personal Identification Number (PIN). This PIN allows you to use the card at the ATM or when making a purchase at the point-of-sale.

Debit Cards are the most convenient way to access your share draft checking account funds. With the VISA Debit Card, you just need to sign the receipt and you are done. The Debit Card works just like a credit card put pulls the money directly from your share draft checking account. This card is basically a 'plastic check'. Most gas stations, grocery stores, and other retail stores have terminals that allow you to pay at the register with your Debit Card. When you are ready to pay, simply slide the card through the terminal and sign the receipt. Sometimes you will be asked to enter your PIN and not asked to sign the receipt -- this is because your VISA Debit Card is also your ATM Card.

Now that I have these services, how can I keep my money safe?

		If you choose your PIN, make it a random number and not a predictable number such as your birthday or address.
		Memorize your PIN. Do not share it with anyone else or write it on a card to keep in your wallet. Leave the number at home when you receive it in the mail. If you loose your card, contact the credit union immediately - they will reissue you a new card with a new PIN.
		Do not let others see you punch your PIN into the machine. Avoid withdrawing cash at night, or use a well-lit ATM if you must get out or us a drive-up ATM.
		Limit the amount you withdraw each month and save your receipts. To avoid overdrafts, you need to enter all these transactions into your checkbook registry.

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Information on this page is contributed to by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA)