There are a few easy ways to check the status of your Wells Fargo debit card. You can check your balance, recent transactions, and more by logging into your Wells Fargo online banking account, using the Wells Fargo mobile app, calling Wells Fargo phone banking, or visiting a Wells Fargo ATM.
Check your Wells Fargo debit card balance online
The quickest way to check your Wells Fargo debit card balance is to log into your Wells Fargo online banking account. Here’s how:
- Go to wellsfargo.com and click “Log In” at the top right of the screen.
- Enter your online banking username and password and click “Sign On.”
- In the accounts overview, scroll down to find your checking account. Your available balance will be listed.
- Click on the account name to see more details like pending transactions, available credit, and more.
In addition to checking your balance, you can also view recent debit card transactions when logged into your online account. Here’s how:
- After logging in, click on the “Account Activity” tab.
- Make sure your checking account is selected from the dropdown menu.
- You will see recent transactions including debit card purchases and ATM withdrawals.
- Click on any transaction to view additional details like the merchant name, location, and amount.
Being able to check your balance and transaction history 24/7 online is one of the most convenient features of having a Wells Fargo debit card. As long as you have internet access, you can easily keep tabs on your account.
Use the Wells Fargo mobile app
In addition to the online banking portal, Wells Fargo also offers a mobile app so you can check your debit card from your smartphone or tablet when on the go.
The Wells Fargo app is available for both Apple and Android devices. Here’s how to get started:
- Download the Wells Fargo app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app and log in with your online banking username and password.
- The overview tab will show your checking account balance.
- Tap on the account to see recent transactions and pending activity.
- You can also tap on individual transactions to see details like the merchant name, date, category, and amount.
The mobile app is extremely useful if you need to quickly check your account while shopping, traveling, or anytime you don’t have access to a computer. It’s a fast and secure way to stay updated on your Wells Fargo debit card transactions.
Call Wells Fargo phone banking
If you prefer speaking to an actual person or don’t have internet access, calling Wells Fargo phone banking is another option for checking your debit card balance and activity.
Wells Fargo’s automated phone banking system is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557). Here’s what you can do:
- Check your account balance
- Review recent debit card transactions
- Find out if a recent check or transfer has cleared
- Verify your payment due date for a Wells Fargo credit card or loan
Phone banking allows you to check all your Wells Fargo accounts with just one call. It’s easy to set up – simply have your account number, debit card number or social security number handy when you call.
If you need additional assistance, Wells Fargo customer service representatives are available 24/7 as well. That way you can ask questions or get help with any issues.
Visit an ATM
Visiting a Wells Fargo ATM is another fast way to check your debit card balance and transactions. With over 13,000 ATM locations nationwide, Wells Fargo ATMs are usually easy to find.
To check your balance at a Wells Fargo ATM, simply:
- Insert your Wells Fargo debit card
- Enter your 4-digit PIN
- Select “Checking Account Balance”
- Your available balance will display on screen
In addition to checking your balance, Wells Fargo ATMs also allow you to:
- Make cash withdrawals
- Get an account history printout
- Make transfers between Wells Fargo accounts
- Deposit checks
Using a Wells Fargo ATM is quick and convenient any time you need instant access to your account. Locate an ATM near you using the ATM finder on the Wells Fargo website or mobile app.
Sign up for account alerts
For 24/7 monitoring of your Wells Fargo debit card activity, consider signing up for account alerts. Wells Fargo lets you set up free email or text alerts when certain events occur on your account.
Some common alerts you can set up include:
- Balance alerts – get notified when your balance drops below a threshold
- Large withdrawal alerts – get notified of withdrawals over a certain amount
- Card usage alerts – get notified when your debit card is used
- Recurring transfers – get reminded when scheduled transfers occur
To set up alerts, simply log into your Wells Fargo account online or in the mobile app and update your notification preferences. That way you can get instantly informed of any important account activity.
Monitor your transactions
The best way to protect yourself against Wells Fargo debit card fraud is to monitor your transactions closely. Get in the habit of reviewing your account activity frequently.
Here are some tips for monitoring your transactions:
- Check your account online at least once a week
- Review any transactions you don’t recognize or identify as fraud
- When making purchases, verify your current balance against your receipt
- Save your receipts to reconcile against your online transaction history
- Report any unauthorized charges to Wells Fargo immediately
By closely monitoring your account transactions, you can catch fraudulent activity quickly before it becomes a larger issue. Be on high alert for things like duplicate charges, charges for items you didn’t buy, and bills that are higher than they should be.
Watch out for fraud
Unfortunately, debit card fraud has become increasingly common in recent years. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Unusual transactions for merchandise you didn’t purchase
- Charges from unfamiliar merchants
- Transactions made in another state or country
- Small dollar purchases you don’t recognize testing stolen card numbers
- Incorrect balance on receipt versus your account
If you notice any suspicious transactions, call Wells Fargo immediately at 1-800-869-3557 so they can freeze your card. You’ll also need to report the fraudulent charges.
You may need to dispute the charges and get a new debit card mailed to you. Make sure Wells Fargo is aware of all fraudulent transactions so they can be removed from your account.
Protect your debit card
Your debit card information is valuable to thieves looking to steal money. Here are some tips to keep your debit card secure:
- Never share your debit card number or PIN with others
- Use secure websites when shopping online
- Check out as a guest instead of saving payment information
- Shield your debit card number from others when making purchases
- Keep an eye on your card at restaurants and retailers
Also beware of scams asking for personal information over phone, email or text. Wells Fargo will never ask for your full debit card number or PIN. Only share information via official Wells Fargo channels.
Replace a lost or stolen card
If your physical Wells Fargo debit card is ever lost or stolen, it’s important to act quickly. Contact Wells Fargo immediately to report it and have your card canceled.
To report a lost or stolen card, call 1-800-869-3557. Wells Fargo’s automated system is available 24/7. You can also speak to a customer service representative anytime.
Once your lost or stolen card is canceled, Wells Fargo will issue you a new card. Standard reissue times are 5-7 business days. Request expedited shipping if you need a faster replacement.
Until you receive your new card, use Wells Fargo’s mobile wallet, cash, checks or account transfers to access your funds. You can also ask for an emergency cash transfer.
Monitor your account closely for fraudulent transactions made with your lost card before it was canceled. Report any suspicious activity to Wells Fargo immediately.
Troubleshoot card issues
If your Wells Fargo debit card stops working, don’t panic. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:
Card declined
If your card is declined when making a purchase, first check your account balance. It may have insufficient funds or be overdrawn. A declined card could also mean your card is expired or has been suspended due to fraud concerns.
Call Wells Fargo to check the status of your account and card. Deposit funds if needed or verify any recent suspicious transactions.
Card not working
A blank PIN screen or card error could indicate your card’s chip is damaged. Try swiping the card instead of inserting. If that doesn’t work, contact Wells Fargo to request a replacement.
Your card may also cease to function if temporarily frozen due to fraud. Call Wells Fargo to have it reactivated once any issues are resolved.
Forgot PIN
If you forget your Wells Fargo debit card PIN, call Wells Fargo customer service or visit a branch to have it reset. They will assign you a new, secure PIN typically within minutes.
Never choose obvious PINs like your birthday. Opt for a random number that’s not related to personal information.
Chip malfunction
If the EMV chip on your Wells Fargo debit card stops working, first try swiping the card instead. The magnetic stripe should still work.
If swiping doesn’t work either, contact Wells Fargo to request a free replacement debit card. Damaged EMV chips are common enough that your card will usually be quickly replaced at no cost.
ATM issues
If a Wells Fargo ATM eats your card, select the option on the ATM screen to hold your card for you to retrieve. The machine will store your card securely until you can call Wells Fargo or visit the branch.
If you enter your PIN wrong too many times, the ATM will retain your card. Again, contact Wells Fargo to retrieve it or get a replacement.
Always notify Wells Fargo promptly about any ATM card issues so they can resolve them or escalate as needed.
Request a new debit card
Over time, your Wells Fargo debit card will naturally wear down from regular use. Here are some signs it may be time for a replacement:
- Card is cracked, scratched or warped
- Chip is damaged
- Magnetic stripe has stopped working
- Card is expired
Don’t wait for your card to stop working entirely. Requesting a replacement ahead of time ensures you avoid any disruptions.
To get a new Wells Fargo debit card, either request one through your online account, visit your local branch, or call customer service at 1-800-869-3557.
Standard delivery times for replacement cards are 5-7 business days. Opt for expedited shipping via UPS if you need it faster.
Activating your new Wells Fargo debit card is easy. Just use it at an ATM or for a purchase and it will automatically activate. Destroy your old card for security.
Change card PIN
For your security, it’s wise to periodically change your Wells Fargo debit card PIN. Here’s how:
- Log into Wells Fargo online banking
- Go to your Profile > Settings > Cards > Select card
- Choose “Change debit card PIN”
- Enter your current PIN
- Type a new 4-digit PIN
- Confirm the new PIN
- Click “Submit” to save the change
You can also change your PIN at a Wells Fargo ATM. Simply insert your card, enter your current PIN, then follow the prompts to assign a new PIN.
Be sure to choose a random, non-obvious PIN to maximize security. Never write down or share your PIN with anyone.
Upgrade to a Wells Fargo rewards debit card
If you frequently use your debit card for purchases, consider upgrading to a rewards version. Wells Fargo offers debit cards that let you earn cash back on your everyday spending.
Two popular options include:
- Wells Fargo Active CashSM Card – earns 2% cash rewards on purchases
- Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa® Card – earns 1.5% cash rewards on purchases
Both cards provide an easy way to put your debit card spending to work earning cash back. The rewards can help offset the cost of gas, groceries, dining out, shopping and more.
Any Wells Fargo checking customer can upgrade to a rewards debit card. Contact Wells Fargo to request a replacement card or apply online. Just link it to your existing checking account to start earning as you spend.
Close your Wells Fargo debit card
If you decide to switch banks or no longer need your Wells Fargo debit card, make sure to formally close the account.
Start by spending down or transferring any remaining funds in your checking account. Destroy your physical debit card and remove it from any digital wallets.
To officially close your debit card and account, visit a Wells Fargo branch and submit a request. You can also call Wells Fargo or sign in online to close the account.
Once submitted, monitor your account for any pending transactions that need to clear. Wells Fargo will send a final account statement showing a $0 balance.
Conclusion
Having a Wells Fargo debit card provides convenient access to your checking account funds for purchases and payments. Be sure to monitor your account activity closely and take advantage of all the ways Wells Fargo allows you to check your balance and transactions.
With proper usage and vigilance, your Wells Fargo debit card can be a valuable financial tool for years to come. Don’t hesitate to contact Wells Fargo customer service if you ever have questions or issues with your card.
