Watch out when using the debit card at the gas pump. Some banks will “block out” $50-$75 on your card until the transaction clears.

For the unaware with low balances, this could result in bounced checks.

To avoid your funds getting tied up, you have a few options:

• Pay with cash.
• Pay with credit card.
• Don’t be broke.

“Hosed at the Gas Pump — By Your Debit Card” [MSN Money] (Thanks to Tham!)

UPDATE: The San Francisco Chronicle did a piece on this same thing over a year ago. (Thanks to Jason!)

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