Which item is primarily used by cardholders to access their account balance?

The ability of cardholders to access their account balance directly is most commonly facilitated through the use of a debit or prepaid card. These cards can be used at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals, where cardholders can perform balance inquiries as part of the transaction process. The card is linked to the individual's bank account, allowing them to check their available funds efficiently and securely.

While a balance inquiry request does relate to accessing balance information, it generally involves an action that occurs either online or through customer service rather than being a primary or immediate tool for checking balance. A cashback receipt and a checkbook do not serve the specific purpose of enabling cardholders to access their account balance; instead, they serve other functions in financial transactions. Thus, a debit or prepaid card is indeed the most direct and practical means by which individuals can readily access their account balance.