Compare the best prepaid cards for everyday use

Our prepaid cards chart is ordered by the lowest UK transaction fee, lowest monthly fee, then lowest application fee.

Prepaid cards are not a form of credit – you can only spend money that you’ve previously put onto the card. They work in a very similar way to pay-as-you-go mobile phones – once you’ve used up the money on the card you can’t spend on it again until you “top-up”.

There are Visa or MasterCard options to choose from, both of which are widely accepted.

Prepaid cards are ideal for:
• People who have had debt problems (including those who have an IVA or who have been made bankrupt)
• Students
• Young people
• People who are unable to get a UK bank account

Some providers even offer a “Credit Builder” option which can help improve or re-build your credit score.

Most cards will allow your wages to be paid to the prepaid card directly, as well as offering a number of other ways to top-up, these include:
• Bank account transfer
• Debit or credit card payment
• Standing order
• Internet
• Post Office
• SMS text

Make sure the method you would like to top-up by is one of those accepted by the prepaid card provider, before applying.

One downside to prepaid cards is that they can charge a lot in the way of different fees. Look for cards with low monthly fees as well as prepaid cards that don’t charge transaction fees. Most will charge you for using an ATM, so if you prefer to withdraw cash than use your card for purchases, be sure to select a card with a lower fee.

What next?

Learn how prepaid cards can be a convenient way to control spending

Read about the advantages and disadvantages of prepaid cards