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Cards have different features and fee structures. Comparing cards on a website like ours can help you make sure you’re getting a competitive offer that meets your needs.
What is a pay as you go card?
A pay as you go prepaid card is a card that is loaded with money in advance.
With this type of card, you can only spend the money that’s already on the card, instead of borrowing from your bank like you would with a credit card, for example.
How do they work?
Pay as you go cards are simple to activate and use, as follows:
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Load money on the card
You will be able to do this when you apply for the card or activate the card. The provider will give you instructions on how to do this.
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Spending on the card
Once you’ve topped up your card, you’re free to use it. Make sure to check terms and conditions for transaction and monthly fees so you can keep charges to a minimum.
When is the best time to use a pay as you go prepaid card?
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You’re a young person
Prepaid cards can be good for teens and uni students to learn how to manage their money because you can’t spend more than is on the card
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Sticking to a budget
If you often dip into your overdraft and want to manage overspending, a prepaid card can help you stick to your budget. You won’t spend more money than you have and it can help with financial planning.
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Travelling abroad
A specialist prepaid travel card can help you manage your spending overseas. You can avoid foreign transaction fees, load it up with the local currency, such as euros, and lock in favourable exchange rates.
How do I load money onto a prepaid pay as you go card?
You can top up a prepaid card in a few easy ways, such as transferring funds from your bank account, using a mobile app, or paying cash at participating retailers or bank branches. Some cards also allow automatic top-ups to make managing your balance even easier.
How do I check my balance?
Checking your prepaid card balance is simple. Just log into your online account or mobile app to see your current balance and transaction history. Some providers also offer balance updates via text, email alerts or through ATMs, depending on the card’s features.
How do I choose the best prepaid pay as you go card?
To get the best value and features, compare different cards carefully. Here are five things to look out for:
Top-up options
Check how easily you can load money – bank transfers, apps, or in-store
Fees and charges
Look out for monthly fees, top-up costs, ATM charges, and inactivity penalties
Spending limits
Some cards have daily or monthly spending caps – make sure they suit your needs
Usage restrictions
Not all cards work abroad or for online purchases – check where you can use it
Extra features
Some cards offer budgeting tools, alerts or rewards – handy extras worth considering
What are the pros and cons of pay as you go cards?
Here are some of the benefits and downsides of using a pay as you go card:
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Advantages
Easier approval. No credit check – you just need to verify your identity
Stops overspending. You can only spend what you load, helping with budgeting
Safe spending. Safer than cash because lost or stolen cards can be cancelled and replaced
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Disadvantages
Additional fees. May include charges for inactivity, top-ups, withdrawals or monthly use
Can’t borrow. No overdraft or credit facility if you run out of funds
Won’t build credit. Card use isn’t reported to credit agencies, so no credit score boost
Frequently asked questions
Where can I use a prepaid pay as you go card?
You can use a prepaid card just about anywhere, depending on the card provider, which is often Visa or Mastercard. This includes most shops, restaurants, petrol stations and online retailers. However, some cards may block certain transactions like car hire or recurring payments, so it’s worth checking the terms before you use it.
Can I use my prepaid card online?
Yes. Prepaid pay as you go cards work for online purchases just like debit or credit cards. You’ll need to enter your card details at checkout, and the amount will be deducted from your prepaid balance. Some cards may not work with certain retailers or subscriptions, so always check first.
Can I use it abroad?
Many prepaid cards can be used abroad, but look out for foreign transaction fees or ATM charges, which can add up. Specialist travel prepaid cards may offer better exchange rates or lower overseas fees, so they’re worth considering if you plan to use your card while travelling.
Can I use it to withdraw cash at an ATM?
Yes, much like a debit card, you’ll be able to withdraw against the balance on your prepaid pay as you go card. However, you could be charged for withdrawing from cash machines in the UK and/or abroad.
Is my money safe with a prepaid pay as you go card?
Yes, your money is generally safe with a prepaid pay as you go card. While these cards aren’t protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), regulated providers must safeguard your funds in a separate account. This means your money should be protected even if the provider goes out of business. Most cards also offer PIN protection and instant card blocking for added security.
What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
If your prepaid card is lost or stolen, contact your card provider immediately. Most offer 24/7 customer support or an app feature to block the card instantly. Once reported, the card can usually be cancelled and a replacement issued. Check with your provider for any fees and make sure to monitor your account for unauthorised transactions.
Are there any fees or charges with a pay as you go prepaid card?
Pay as you go prepaid cards can come with a range of fees. Here are some common charges to look out for:
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Application fee
A one-off fee when you first order the card
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Monthly fee
A regular charge for keeping the card active
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Top-up fee
A charge for adding money to the card, depending on the method used
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ATM withdrawal fee
A fee for taking out cash from a cash machine
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Transaction fee
A charge for each purchase made with the card
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Foreign usage fee
Added cost for using the card abroad or in another currency
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Inactivity fee
A charge if the card isn’t used for a set period
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Replacement card fee
A fee for replacing a lost or stolen card
What are the alternatives to a prepaid card?
Here are some other ways to manage your spending or access money:
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Debit card
Linked to your bank account, letting you spend what’s available without borrowing
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Credit card
Allows you to borrow funds for purchases and pay them back later, often with added benefits
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Cash
Useful for small transactions, though less secure and harder to track
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Bank transfer
A direct and secure way to send money between accounts
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Digital wallets
Apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay let you pay using your phone or smartwatch
Our expert says…
Prepaid cards can be a smart choice for anyone looking to control spending, avoid debt, or manage money without a traditional bank account. They’re especially useful for budgeting, travel, or giving teens access to money safely. But keep an eye on fees – some cards charge for top-ups, withdrawals or inactivity – and remember, most prepaid cards won’t help build your credit score.
Tim Heming Personal Finance Expert
Compare pay as you go prepaid cards with MoneySuperMarket
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See what’s on offer
We compare pay as you go prepaid cards from leading suppliers. Look out for any promotional deals you can take advantage of
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Compare key details
We show you the important information upfront such as any fees and benefits of the prepaid card. So, you know where you stand when you apply
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Apply online
Found the card you want? Then all you need to do is click through to the provider and apply online in seconds Pay as you go card
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Do I need a good credit score to get a pay as you go prepaid card?
No. You won’t need an excellent credit score to qualify for a prepaid card. Providers don’t carry out credit checks because you’re not borrowing any money. You may need an ID check when you sign up.
Are there any fees associated with pay as you go prepaid cards?
Yes, there are charges that come with prepaid cards. However, what you’ll pay will depend on the card you choose. Here are the following fees you may have to pay:
Monthly fee: You could be charged a monthly fee for the card.
Transaction fee: You may face charges for transactions made on the card.
Cash withdrawal fees: There could be a fee for using the card to withdraw money from an ATM, whether in the UK or abroad.
Inactivity fees: If you don’t use the card for a period of time, your issuer may charge you an inactivity fee.
What should I do if my prepaid card is lost or stolen?
You should contact your card issuer immediately if your card is lost or stolen, they will promptly issue you with a replacement card.
Do prepaid cards require a credit check or a bank account?
No, you don't need to pass a credit check to get a prepaid card. Nor do you have to hold a bank account.
Can I set spending limits on a prepaid card?
Yes, many prepaid cards allow you to set daily, weekly or monthly spending limits. This can be a helpful feature for budgeting or for giving cards to children or teens while maintaining control over spending.
Can I get a joint or family prepaid card?
Some providers offer linked prepaid cards for families, allowing a main account holder to manage multiple cards. These can be useful for giving children or dependents controlled access to funds.
Do prepaid cards expire?
Yes, prepaid cards typically have an expiry date printed on them. You’ll usually be notified in advance and offered a replacement card, but it’s worth checking with your provider so you’re not caught out.
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Reviewed on 5 Dec 2025 by
