How to Pay Off a Debit Card Before It Can Be Activated Again

A debit card is tied to your checking account and can be used to make purchases or withdraw money from an ATM. If your checking account goes into the negatives, you owe money to the bank, and you won't be able to use your debit card until you repay the money. The bank can also close your account if you don't repay the money within a certain time, which makes it even more difficult to reactivate your debit card.

Instructions

1

Call your bank and ask if your bank account is still open. Most banks will close your checking account within 30 to 60 days if you do not repay the amount owed. Ask the bank how much you owe. Whether your account is still open or not, you'll need to know how much you need to pay to get it back in good standing.

2

Visit your bank. If your account is still accessible, you can simply go to the bank and place the necessary funds into your account; afterward, your debit card can be used again. If your bank account is closed, talk to the branch manager. Explain why your account fell into the negatives and why you couldn't pay it until now. The bank is under no obligation to reopen your account, but if this is your first offense, the manager will often reopen your account.

3

Pay back the amount owed in cash. Unless you're depositing an inheritance check or paycheck to pay back the amount owed, there's no reason not to use cash. Do not take out a cash advance on your credit card or from a payday advance company; you'll put yourself in grave danger of falling behind on your finances again. Many banks will not reopen your checking account unless you pay in cash; they want to know that you're financially stable and that you won't have a reoccurring problem with your account.

4

Test your debit card to ensure it works. Try to take money out of an ATM or attempt to make a small purchase. Have cash as a backup in case your debit card doesn't work at first. Call your bank's customer service number if the debit card does not work correctly after you pay back the amount owed on your account.