Debit Cards

Help Center

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Are there any transaction fees for using my debit card?

How do I file a card dispute?

How do I order a debit card?

How do I redeem points for merchandise?

Is there a difference between signing and using PIN for transactions?

What should I do if my card is lost or stolen?

Can I use my card outside the U.S.?



Are there any transaction fees for using my debit card?

  • MasterCard® may assess a foreign transaction fee for purchases made outside the United States.
  • Fees may still apply when used at a non-South Carolina Federal ATM. Visit https://www.allpointnetwork.com to locate a fee-free ATM near you.

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How do I file a card dispute?

Before filing a dispute, contact the company who processed the item to resolve with them. They may require you to supply proof of the charge such as:

  • A receipt
  • A copy of your account history or
  • Statement

If you cannot reach a resolution with the merchant, you have 60 days from the statement date of which the transaction occurred to file a dispute.

For Debit Card disputes:

  • Visit a local financial center to fill out a dispute form or
  • Contact Us to request a dispute form mailed

For Credit Card disputes:

  • Contact Cardholder Services at 843-797-8300
  • Visit a local financial center to fill out a dispute form

After the dispute form is submitted:

  • The dispute form is forwarded to our card processor for investigation.
  • For Credit Cards, interest will not be charged on the amount disputed.
  • You may be contacted by our credit card processor through the mail if more information is required.
  • Follow all instructions on letters from the credit card processor promptly. If the forms are not completed and returned, the dispute will be closed.

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How do I order a debit card?

The MasterCard® Debit Card is accepted at millions of locations worldwide. You’ll have instant access to your checking account with the convenience of a card.

If your card is damaged or if you have never had an ATM/Debit card assigned to your account:

  • Visit a local financial center for a debit card instantly issued
  • Use our Secure Chat feature in Online Banking to request a card
  • Contact Us to request a card by mail

To activate your debit card, call 866-299-2275.

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How do I redeem points for merchandise?

Points can be redeemed for merchandise awards online or via mail.

To redeem points online:

  • Visit www.uChooserewards.com
  • Select the “Merchandise” link to view the merchandise catalog.
  • Add the desired merchandise awards to your shopping cart for redemption.
  • Click on the "Proceed to Checkout" button to place your order online.
  • Enter your name, shipping address and a telephone number and click "Transmit Order" to submit your order.
  • You will receive a confirmation number after your order has been submitted.
  • Keep records of your order until you receive your award merchandise.

Points can be redeemed for travel awards online or via phone.

Travel awards that can be redeemed through the uChoose Rewards Travel Agency include:

  • Airline tickets
  • Hotel certificates
  • Car certificates
  • Vacation packages
  • Experiences
  • Cruises

To redeem points:

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Is there a difference between signing and using PIN for transactions?

  • Some merchants may require a signature (such as many restaurants), while others may offer you the option of 'Credit' or 'Debit/ATM' when processing your purchase.
  • If you select 'Credit', you will sign a receipt to authorize your purchase
  • If you select 'Debit/ATM', you will use your PIN.

Benefits of signing for your purchases include:

  • Earning 1 uChoose Reward point per every $5.00 you spend
  • Protection under the Zero Liability Act

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What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen?

  • It's easy to connect with us:
    • Turn your card off/on and report it as lost or stolen using Online or Mobile Banking. Simply log in, click on "Manage Cards" in Online Banking or "Cards" in Mobile Banking. You may be prompted to call us.
    • Call Cardholder Services at 800-472-3272.
    • Or visit a local financial center to receive a card instantly issued.
  • Once your card has been cancelled, a new one will be mailed to you in 7-10 business days.
  • Check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions.
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Why is a pending transaction different then the actual amount?

An authorization may vary from the final purchase amount in situations where there is an estimated authorization amount or a tip is involved.

  • Example: At a restaurant, an authorization is requested prior to a tip being added. The final purchase amount will include the tip.
  • Example: At the gas pump, an initial authorization is requested prior to dispensing fuel and determining the final amount of the purchase. Many pay-at-the-pump gas purchases are initially authorized for $1 no matter the final purchase amount.
  • Example: At a hotel, an authorization in the amount equal to the entire stay plus an estimated amount for incidentals may be made. This can also be true of cruise lines and car rental companies.
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Can I use my card outside the U.S.?

Keep your cards open by informing us in advance.

Remember to contact South Carolina Federal when your plans include travel outside the United States.

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