Abstract: A method for processing a long distance communication using a debit account comprises receiving a deposit into a debit account, the account identified by an account identifier and the account comprising a balance, and updating the balance of the account. A first request for balance verification is received from a long distance provider in response to the long distance provider receiving an attempt to make a long distance communication using the debit account. The first request comprises a first amount and the account identifier. A first verification is communicated to the long distance provider. The first verification comprises the account identifier. A second request for balance verification is received from a debit card network provider in response to the debit card network provider receiving an attempt to withdraw funds from the debit account. The second request comprises a second amount and the account identifier. A second verification is communicated to the debit card network provider.