How To Shop Online With a Checking Account Number
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Summary:
You can pay for some online purchases with a checking account as an alternative to using credit or debit cards. In this guide, learn how to shop online with your checking account number, explore the pros and cons of doing so, and discover alternative payment methods to consider.
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Why shop online with a checking account?
If you prefer not to use credit or debit cards (or if you don’t have any), paying for online purchases with your checking account can be a useful alternative. Accessing funds directly from your checking account eliminates the need for borrowing money or sharing your debit card information online. However, not all online vendors accept payments directly from checking accounts, says Sophia Tang, founder of Nako Cosmestics, who explored various payment options for her business.
Can you shop online and pay with your checking account?
While some online merchants, like Amazon, allow direct payment with a checking account, others may accept checks. However, many retailers primarily accept debit or credit cards, gift cards, or buy now, pay later (BNPL) solutions. If paying with a checking account is an option, the checkout process typically involves selecting a payment method such as “ACH” or “eCheck” and entering your account and routing numbers.
How to pay online with a checking account
To pay online with your checking account, follow these steps:
- Collect your bank account information, including your checking account number and bank’s routing number.
- Make sure the website you’re shopping on supports checking account payments.
- At checkout, select the ACH or eCheck payment option and enter your account and routing numbers.
- Double-check the accuracy of your account information before completing the purchase.
Pros and cons of using a checking account to shop online
Other ways to pay when shopping online
If a retailer doesn’t accept checking account payments, consider these alternatives to credit and debit cards instead:
- PayPal: Connect your checking account to PayPal for more secure online payments.
- Prepaid debit cards: Load funds onto a prepaid card and use it for online purchases.
- Buy now, pay later: Split payments over time with BNPL solutions.
- Gift cards: Purchase digital or physical gift cards to use online.
- EBT and SNAP benefits: Many online retailers accept electronic benefit transfer (EBT) payments online for specific items.
How to stay safe when shopping online with a checking account
Follow these steps to protect your money and personal information while shopping online:
- Shop only at reputable retailers with SSL certificates.
- Create strong, unique passwords for your shopping accounts.
- Check your bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
- Contact your bank immediately if you suspect fraudulent activity.
FAQ
Is it safe to use my checking account online?
Yes, using your checking account online is safe as long as you take certain precautions, such as shopping at reputable websites and monitoring your account for unauthorized activity.
What information do I need to pay with a checking account online?
You’ll need your checking account number and your bank’s routing number to pay online with your checking account.
Can I use my checking account for recurring payments?
Yes, you can set up automatic payments using your checking account for recurring bills or subscriptions.
Key takeaways
- Paying for online purchases with a checking account is a useful alternative to using credit or debit cards.
- Check if the online retailer you’re shopping at accepts checking account payments at checkout.
- Ensure the accuracy of your account information before completing the purchase.
- If the retailer doesn’t accept checking account payments, consider alternative payment methods like PayPal and gift cards.
- Whenever you shop online, make sure to protect your personal information and monitor your account for unauthorized transactions.
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