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Pay as you go prepaid cards
Choose from our best pay as you go cards
What is a pay as you go card?
A pay as you go prepaid card is loaded with money in advance.
You can only spend the money available on the card, rather than borrowing money as you would with a credit card.
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 help teenagers and students learn to manage money because they can’t spend more than is available on the card. Cards designed for children or teenagers may need to be opened and managed by a parent or guardian.
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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. Depending on the card, you may be able to hold foreign currencies, lock in an exchange rate or pay lower overseas fees. Check the rates and charges before applying.
How do I load money onto a prepaid pay as you go card?
You can usually top up a prepaid card by transferring money from a bank account or using the provider’s app. Some cards also accept debit card payments, cash top-ups at participating retailers or automatic top-ups. The available methods depend on the provider.
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.
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: You usually won’t need a credit check because you’re not borrowing money, although the provider will need to verify your identity.
Stops overspending: You can only spend what you load, helping with budgeting
Security: Safer than carrying cash because a lost or stolen card can usually be frozen or cancelled.
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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 at most places that accept its payment network, such as Visa or Mastercard. This can include shops, restaurants and online retailers. However, some cards may not support transactions such as car hire deposits, pay-at-pump petrol stations or recurring payments, so check the terms before using one.
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?
Money held on a prepaid card usually isn’t protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Instead, authorised e-money and payment firms are generally required to safeguard relevant customer funds, for example by keeping them separate from the firm’s own money.
Safeguarding is designed to protect your money if the firm fails, but it isn’t the same as FSCS protection and there could be a delay before funds are returned. Check the provider’s regulatory status and safeguarding arrangements before applying.
What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
Contact your card provider immediately or freeze the card through its app, if available. The provider will usually cancel the card and arrange a replacement, although a replacement fee may apply. Check your account and report any unfamiliar transactions straight away.
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 providers. Look out for any promotional deals that could offer additional value.
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Compare key details
We show you important information upfront, including the card’s fees and benefits, so you know what to expect before applying.
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Apply online
Found a card that suits you? Click through to the provider to apply online.
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?
You usually won’t need a credit check because you’re not borrowing money, although the provider will need to verify your identity.
Some prepaid cards can be opened without a bank account, but you’ll need an accepted way to add money to the card. Check the provider’s available top-up methods before applying.
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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