Hints from heloise

Dear Heloise: I read your hint about the couple who were surprised that there was a limit on their debit card. I’ve worked in banking for more than 20 years and know that most banks (given 24 hours notice) can increase the limit on a debit card if the customer will let the bank know. This can be done when someone knows ahead of time that he or she wants to make a large purchase (e.g., a computer) with a debit card, or if the person is traveling out of the state or country and might be making large purchases or using a debit card a lot.

Of course, the customer should notify the bank after the purchase is made so that the bank can take the limit back down to the original amount. With all the identity theft today, it’s really for the customers’ protection that the limit is not set too high. — Kathy, Dallas

Thanks for reminding us. Folks, listen to the expert and call your bank ahead of time. — Heloise