What Happens If You Accidentally Wash Your Debit Card?

Accidentally washing a debit card, often left in a pocket, is a common mishap. Understanding the potential effects and necessary steps afterward is important. Knowing how to assess damage and protect your financial security helps you navigate this situation.

Immediate Impact on Your Debit Card

When a debit card goes through a washing machine, the combination of water, detergent, and agitation can affect its functionality. The magnetic stripe, which stores static data, is susceptible to damage from physical stress like bending or creasing, and heat from a dryer can also degrade it. The embedded EMV chip, which generates a unique transaction code for each use, may also experience issues if exposed to contaminated water or excessive heat.

Visible signs of damage might include fading of the card’s printing, peeling plastic layers, or card warping. Even if visually intact, residues from detergent or other contaminants can interfere with the chip’s contacts or magnetic stripe readability. You can test the card by attempting a small purchase or checking its functionality at an ATM. Even if it works initially, prolonged or repeated exposure could lead to intermittent failures or a shortened lifespan.

Securing Your Finances and Next Steps

Regardless of whether your card appears damaged, immediately check your bank account activity for any unauthorized transactions. You can typically do this through your bank’s online banking portal or mobile application. Document any suspicious charges, including the amount, merchant, and date, for later dispute. Many banks offer real-time transaction alerts, which can help you monitor your account proactively.

Contact your bank or financial institution to report the damaged card. You can usually find a customer service phone number on the back of your card, on your bank statements, or on the bank’s official website. Reporting a damaged card protects your account, as the bank can take measures to prevent unauthorized use. Your bank might temporarily suspend the card or offer options to lock it via their mobile app while you await a replacement.

Obtaining a Replacement Debit Card

After reporting your card as damaged, your bank will issue a new one. In most cases, a new card will be sent to your address on file through standard mail, often arriving within seven to ten business days. Some banks may offer expedited delivery options for an additional fee, which can reduce the waiting period to two to five business days. These fees for rush delivery can range from approximately $5 to $50, depending on the bank and delivery speed.

While many banks replace damaged cards without a standard fee, some may charge a nominal amount, typically less than $10. Upon receiving your new debit card, activate it online, through a mobile app, or by phone. Update your new card details, including the card number, expiration date, and security code, with any merchants or services that have recurring payments linked to your old card.