Back to School Shopping

School is less than 2 weeks away so I went shopping last week. I usually dread school shopping because I never seem to be prepared and always spend more than I want. I have 3 children ages 8, 12, & 15. Our first stop was Marshalls. Marshalls has very good deals and I always have luck in the clearance section. My daughter found 1 outfit in the whole store that she liked but at least I had better luck with my 2 boys who found much more. We were getting tired so we decided to call it a night and continue the next day………

First stop was Wal-Mart for good deals on school supplies and then we went to Burlington Coat Factory. Everyone did very well the only glitch is when I went to check out. I pulled out my checkbook (no debit card for this girl) gave my license and was declined…HUH? I knew I had enough money in my account so after being embarrassed and having the clerk put it through twice I realize that my husband and children had already left the store with the goods and were walking to the car.  The manager came over and I explained that there must be a mistake because I knew that there was money to cover the check. He allowed me to go to the ATM and return with the money. (nice manager!)

When I returned and finished the transaction, the manager told me that many times when there is a lot of activity on an account your bank, in trying to protect you, will decline your checks or debits…What? I had no idea.

When I told my coworkers what happened I was told by my supervisor that the same thing had happened to her.  My advice to you is that if you know you are going to make some big purchases, going on vacation or just school shopping like I was, please let your bank know and they will make a note to your account. That way, you will spare your self the embarrassment and the need to promise the others in line behind you that you are not a loser and you really DO have the money in your account to cover your purchases.