Prepaid Cards

A prepaid card is a type of payment card that is pre-loaded with a specific amount of money. It is not linked to a bank account, and users can only spend the amount that has been loaded onto the card.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do prepaid cards differ from debit and credit cards?

Prepaid cards are pre-funded with a specific amount, and spending is limited to that balance. In contrast, debit cards draw funds directly from a linked bank account, while credit cards allow users to borrow money up to a certain credit limit.

What are the main benefits of using prepaid cards?

Prepaid cards offer a secure and efficient way to distribute funds. They are more secure than traditional payment methods, such as cash and checks. And they’re great for a variety of purposes—businesses can use prepaid cards for one-time payments, rewards, consumer and sales incentives, employee per diems and more. Prepaid cards also provide a digital trail, simplifying reconciliation and record-keeping.

What is the difference between physical and virtual prepaid cards?

Physical prepaid cards are plastic cards designed for both in-person transactions and online use. Much like a physical debit or credit card, they can be used at point-of-sale terminals, for online purchases and sometimes to withdraw cash from ATMs. Virtual prepaid cards can also be used like a debit or credit card, but they exist entirely in a digital format. They can be spent online or added to a mobile wallet for in-person purchases. Advantages of virtual cards include instant delivery and enhanced security.