Another way to avoid the $5 fee
To access your paycheck faster, consider the free Earnin app (formerly called Activehours). Earnin lets you upload your timesheet and receive up to $100 in your bank account quickly — with few catches.
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PayPal Prepaid MasterCard review
Last updated:
- Get this card if… you want quick access to your paycheck or want to reload your card through NetSpend Reload locations.
- Pick something else if…you don’t want to pay a monthly fee.
$4.95
Monthly fee
$0
Monthly fee with a direct deposit
$0
Signature transaction fee
$0
PIN transaction fee
Details
| Card type | Credit |
|---|---|
| Card network | Mastercard |
| Monthly fee | $4.95 |
| Monthly fee with a direct deposit | $0 |
| Signature transaction fee | $0 |
| PIN transaction fee | $0 |
Expert review
Review by
Kevin Joey Chen
kevin.chen@findercrew.comKevin Joey Chen is a credit cards, banking and investments writer whose work and analysis have appeared on CNN, U.S. News & World Report, Lifehacker and CreditCards.com. He's passionate about helping you get your finances in order and expertly navigate the cutting-edge financial tools available -- including credit cards, apps and budgeting software.
Expert review
The PayPal Prepaid Mastercard may be a good choice if you want direct deposit options. The card offers ways to bolster your rewards through PayPal and reload your card at NetSpend locations.
But if you’re not crazy about shelling out the $4.95 monthly fee, you may be better off with a debit card.
The basics
If you use PayPal, you can swipe this prepaid card to eat, drink or shop anywhere Mastercard is accepted. It costs $4.95 to buy the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard, but you can avoid this fee by buying the card online.
The PayPal Prepaid Mastercard can be most useful if:
- You’re looking to access your paycheck or government benefits faster.
Direct deposits through a bank can take up to two days. Speed up direct deposits directly to your PayPal Prepaid Mastercard. - You want easy reloading.
Load funds online from your PayPal account or at more than 130,000 NetSpend Reload Network locations in the United States.
To use the card, you’ll pay a Plan Fee of $4.95 a month.
If you’re looking for a fee-free card, consider the PayPal Business Debit Mastercard that draws from your PayPal balance. You can apply for it if you have a PayPal Business account or received at least $500 in your personal PayPal account in the last 12 months.
Fees
| Card purchase fee | $4.95 in stores; $0 if purchased online |
|---|---|
| Plan fee | $4.95 a month |
| Signature purchase transaction fee | Included in plan |
| PIN purchase transaction fee | Included in plan |
| Over-the-counter cash withdrawal fee (financial institution) | $2.50 |
| Over-the-counter cash withdrawal fee (NetSpend Reload Network) | Varies by location |
| ATM cash withdrawal fee (domestic and international) | $1.95 |
| ATM transaction decline fee (domestic and international) | $1 |
View a full list of fees in the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard’s terms and conditions.
The perks
- Faster access to deposits.
When you deposit your paycheck or government benefits directly to your card, you can access the funds up to two days faster than direct deposit to a bank account. - No purchase fee if you order the card online.
You’ll pay $4.95 to buy this card in person or over the phone.
You’ll also like …
- PayPal Prepaid mobile app.
Check your account balance, find reload locations and more from your smartphone. - Open a savings account.
Open a savings account through the Bancorp Bank, and earn up to 5% APY on balances of up to $1,000. - Refer a friend.
If you refer a new user who funds their card with at least $10, you and that person each receive $5. - Cash back.
Earn cash back rewards at some merchants for using your PayPal Prepaid Mastercard.
What to watch out for
- Not a credit card.
This Mastercard is a prepaid card. You’ll need to load money to the card before using it. - Monthly fee.
To use the card, you’ll pay a Plan Fee of $4.95 a month.
If you want a prepaid card with zero to minimal fees, you’ll want to keep looking. As always, compare your options when looking for a prepaid card.
Compare with other prepaid cards
What should I know before I apply?
If you live in Vermont, you’re ineligible for the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard.
Always consider your options and your financial situation before you apply for a prepaid card.
Information you’ll need
- Full name and contact information
- Home address
How to apply for the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard
1. Visit the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard website and click Order Your Card.
2. Complete the application with information like your name, address and contact information. Then click Get My Card to submit your application.
How long will it take to be approved?
You’ll typically receive a decision on your application right away. If approved, you’re mailed the card within 10 business days.
I got the card. Now what?
- Avoid fees. Check this card’s fee table to understand fees you might encounter using it.
- Customer service. If you have questions, contact customer support at 866-753-6440.