Curious:

You said "some places like hotels and gas stations will put a "hold" on a certain amount of money. this can tie up your money for days or even weeks."

Let me see if I have this straight. Let's say I bank at XYZ Bank. I have a bank card which I can use either as a debit card or a credit card. When I go to any store, and use it as a debit card (let's say I'm shopping at the supermarket), I buy $50 worth of groceries. I have more than enough in my checking account to cover this amount. I use the card as a debit card. I swipe it. I have to put a PIN number in when I use a debit card.

Are you saying, that if I were to do this in a gas station or a hotel, the place would put a hold on the $50.00. I don't understand this.

I simply assumed, that when I went to any place and used my bank card as a debit card (and not a credit card), that it would simply take the money from my checking account and that would be it.

Am I mistaken?

Thanks.
Melody