As one of the top banks in Canada, the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) boasts over 17 million clients and offers a range of financial products. Everything from chequing and savings accounts to mortgages and investment options is available.
When clients open a chequing or savings account, they’ll receive an RBC Client Card to help manage deposits, bill payments, and purchases. While it’s an effective financial tool, it does have some limits on its capabilities. Here’s how it works.
The RBC Client Card, one of two debit cards offered by The Royal Bank of Canada, allows users to shop in-store and make quick tap and mobile wallet payments.
Overview of the RBC Client Card
As the default debit card of RBC, the Client Card only lets users make in-store purchases. To shop and buy online, you’ll need to sign up for the RBC Visa Debit Card separately.
Advantages of the RBC Client Card
1. Quick Payments
The card lets users make fast payments since it’s equipped with Interac Flash. All you need to do is tap the card at participating Flash-enabled vendors. In addition, you can link your card to your mobile wallet for speedy payment at checkout.
2. Free ATM Withdrawals
You can use your Client Card to withdraw money at any RBC ATM. You can use other ATMs as well but will incur a small service charge.
3. Use In the United States
If you frequently travel to the United States or live close to the border, you might want to keep this card in mind. The RBC Client Card lets you make purchases throughout the U.S., but you might get pegged with a cross-border transaction fee.
4. Online Banking Convenience
Because the Client Card is a debit card and linked to your bank account, you’ll have access to RBC’s mobile and online banking. You can monitor transactions, check your balance, and benefit from RBC’s enhanced security features.
Disadvantages of the RBC Client Card
1. Can’t Make Online Purchases
One of the biggest downsides to the Client Card is your inability to make purchases online. If you want to buy something, you’ll need another card. Now, RBC does have its own Visa Debit card that you can use for online shopping, but it’s a turnoff for many people looking to have both options in one card.
2. Transaction Limits
Per RBC’s Client Card agreement, there are several limits customers have to contend with.
- Daily cash withdrawal limits from ATMs
- Daily limits on deposits made through ATMs or mobile deposits eligible for immediate transfer to other accounts or bill payments.
- Limits on bill payments.
- Daily limits on point-of-sale purchases made with your card or through a mobile wallet at retailers.
3. No Credit Access
Because the Client Card is a debit card linked to your own banking account, you can’t purchase items on credit or obtain any of the benefits of credit cards. An RBC debit card won’t increase your credit score or be eligible for other credit card perks like cashback offers.
Who Is Eligible for An RBC Client Card, and How Can I Apply?
There are only a few guidelines for securing one of RBC’s debit cards. They include:
- You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent or temporary resident of Canada.
- You’re applying for an RBC chequing or savings account that offers this card.
To get the process moving, head to RBC’s website and complete the application. You’ll need to provide the usual information (name, address, date of birth, email, and phone number). Then submit it and wait for your acceptance.
In the meantime, if you’re planning on making purchases online, start the RBC Visa Debit card application process. To do this, you’ll have to stop into a local branch or call RBC’s customer service line.
How To Setup a PIN Number On Your Client Card
A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is an added security feature on all debit cards.
It usually consists of a four-digit number only known to you. When you make a purchase, you’ll be prompted to enter your PIN before finalizing the transaction. This cuts the chance of anyone using your card if it’s lost or stolen.
When you receive your RBC Client Card in the mail after applying for a chequing or savings account, there will be instructions on how to set up your PIN.
You’ll need to call the number provided to activate the card and set up your PIN. If you forget or want to reset your PIN, you’ll have to reach out to a customer service representative who will guide you through the process.
How do I activate my RBC debit card online?
RBC does not offer an online method to activate a new debit card. Here are the methods that RBC commonly uses for debit card activation:
- Phone Activation: The simplest way to activate your RBC debit card is by calling the RBC customer service number. This is often included in the documentation that comes with your new card. The number for card activation was 1-877-900-5900.
- ATM Activation: You can also activate your card by using it at an RBC Royal Bank ATM.
- Branch Activation: Visit your local RBC branch and have a representative assist you with the activation process.
Final Thoughts
The RBC Client Card makes it easy to purchase items in-store and pay with a quick tap or through their mobile wallet. However, if you want to make online purchases, you need a different card.
Juggling two different debit cards for two reasons might be a big turnoff for many people. Before you commit, check out other options. You can always try a reloadable credit card. Check out my top picks.
