subject: Prepaid Card: The Advantages [print this page] Prepaid Card: The Advantages Prepaid Card: The Advantages
With a prepaid card, you do not have to worry about paying interest, but once the money runs out, it runs out unless you add more into the card. You can add money into the card anytime you want. You can also check the balance of your card anytime you want either on-line or calling on the phone. Some ATM's may even let you check depending on the ATM, and depending on the card.
Prepaid cards are attractive because you will not risk going into debt as long as you use the prepaid card. It is a good idea, however, to carry around a debit card, or a credit card just in case you absolutely need to pay for something, but you forgot to add more money into your card, so you are short of money. It is always good to be prepared in case of emergencies such as those. Even if you have to use a credit card to finish paying for your items, chances are, you won't have more on your credit card than what you will be able to pay off the following month if you rarely use your credit card, and you plan ahead on your future expenses to ensure you will be able to pay your credit card balance. As long as you pay the balance in full the following month, you won't have to pay interest.
Prepaid cards are not only safer than cash, and you can get your money back if it gets lost or stolen, but some prepaid credit cards will even let you build up your credit as you use them! Often times, this feature is an added fee that must be paid, but it is always good to be prepared with good credit in case you ever find yourself needing credit for something, such as getting a loan. The better your credit, the lower the interest rates you will be able to get. Even if you don't think you will ever need to take out a loan, emergencies can always happen that may require you to.
