Money Tips for Students, January 2014
As students become more responsible for paying their own bills, they need to be aware of the types of cards available, according to the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA).
Debit cards are tied to a bank account. When someone uses a debit card, the money is automatically deducted from the account. Most colleges issue a type of debit card to students that can be used to buy books, supplies and meals. In that case, the card is not tied to a bank account but is preloaded with funds deposited each semester or quarter.
When a debit card has been lost or stolen, report it to the bank or credit union immediately to limit losses from unauthorized use.
Credit cards offer what is essentially an interest-free loan if the balance is paid in full each month. Students who use credit cards should pay them off at the end of each pay period when possible to avoid paying interest fees. Most credit cards also offer cash advance services at a higher interest rate.
Lost or stolen credit cards should also be reported immediately. However, there is a $50 limit to the consumer’s liability on fraudulent charges with stolen credit cards.
ATM cards allow users to withdraw cash from their accounts when the bank or credit union is closed. Most banks and credit unions charge a fee when ATM cards are used at a machine not owned by that institution’s network, and those fees can add up. Students should not use an ATM card outside their network unless absolutely necessary.
KHEAA is the state agency that administers Kentucky’s grant and scholarship programs, including the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES). It provides financial literacy videos at http://itsmoney.kheaa.com. KHEAA also provides free copies of “It’s Money, Baby,” a guide to financial literacy, to Kentucky schools and residents upon request at .
To learn how to plan and prepare for higher education, go to www.gotocollege.ky.gov. For more information about Kentucky scholarships and grants, visit www.kheaa.com; write KHEAA, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602; or call 800-928-8926, ext. 6-7372.
