I don't use debit cards or ATMs. I don't like them. I think they are budget busters.

When we opened our checking account a few years back, a debit card automatically came with the account. I told the bank I didn't need it, but they said I would need it to sign up for on-line banking. Once I was signed up, I could go ahead and destroy the card (which I did).

Then earlier in the year our bank improved the security for on-line banking, requiring that you register any new computers by entering your debit card number. Of course improved security is a very good thing, but I wasn't able to access my account after switching computers because the bank's system no longer recognized my computer and I did not have my debit card info to re-register. I had to order a new debit card and was charged a $5 "New Card Fee." Arrgggh!

Lesson Learned: From now on, debit cards and the like go to the safety deposit box in case I need them some day, and only get destroyed when the account is closed.