Financial Literacy for Everyone
Follow Us
FacebookTwitter
free materials

Follow Us On Twitter
Looking for financial tips and news from Practical Money Skills Canada?
Follow Us Now

Prepaid Cards


What is a Prepaid Card?

Like debit and credit cards, prepaid cards allow you to make purchases without cash or cheques. Unlike credit cards, you cannot take on debt with a prepaid card, and unlike debit cards, prepaid cards are not linked to a bank account. A prepaid card has a zero balance until you add money to it.

How Prepaid Cards Work

When you make a purchase with a prepaid card, the amount is subtracted from the balance of the card. Once the balance reaches zero, the card is empty. It can then be discarded, unless it is a reloadable card, in which case you can add funds and continue using it.

With Prepaid Cards You Can:

  • Make purchases in person, online, or by phone
  • Give gifts to friends and family
  • Withdraw cash from an ATM or bank
  • Receive wages or funds by direct deposit to the card
  • Pay bills

Email to a friend

Your Name:
Your Email:
Recipient's Email:
Message:

Comments

Please note that all comments must adhere to the Practical Money Skills Discussion Rules and terms of use.

You must be logged in to leave a comment. Log In | Register