netSpend: The Story of the Visa Debit Card We Did Not Apply For
Photo credit:
Neil T / Flickr This week my husband received an unsolicited Visa debit card from a firm called netSpend. It was certainly an odd experience to receive a card that looked official instead of a pre-approved application packet. This is my story of shock, anger, and finally disgust at the practices of this financial firm. (See also: Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: A Comprehensive Comparison)
At first, I was confused as to why my husband would open an Visa debit account without telling me. So I asked him if he applied for this card. He was bewildered and said, "No! Did my identity get stolen?" I was equally confused because the card has to have money loaded onto it to be worth anything so it would be worth nothing to identity thieves unless they managed to steal the card after we load money. Additionally, this card came to our address, and it does not make sense that an identity thief would send what they want to steal to us.
So I read the enclosed letter, and it says that some partners of netSpend recommended my husband for the Visa debit card service. The problem is that my husband did not apply for this card, so it does not make sense that a new card is now here waiting for his activation. Even if other financial firms sold his name and address to partners the most they should do would be to send a fake credit card along with an application. So I researched this company a little bit online and it seems that it has sent out cards to other people who did not apply for the card. There is also a slew of other complaints against this company regarding how it handles customers' money.
The next day I promptly called netSpend and asked them to close down this account. According to the representative, someone at netSpend thought that our household needed a Visa debit card, so they sent us one. As long as we do not activate it the account does not exist in their system. Basically, the representative was admitting that we did not apply for the card. By shoving an unwanted card onto us, netSpend pretty much lost any chance of having us a customer in the future.
In conclusion, this is probably the most distasteful customer acquisition tactic I have ever seen because it really made us feel a bit violated. Credit and debit cards are not supposed to be given out like candy and I hope netSpend realizes that. It seems that netSpend's business is basically to get people to deposit money onto its cards and then slowly wittle away peoples' money with fees. When I called their toll-free number it says that it costs 50 cents just to check your balance! So it does make sense that they want as many people to deposit cash onto their pieces of plastic as possible. However, telling people to activate cards they did not apply for is definitely not the way to go.
If you're actually looking for a good prepaid card, we have a list of the best prepaid cards.
Like this article? Pin it!
Disclaimer: The links and mentions on this site may be affiliate links. But they do not affect the actual opinions and recommendations of the authors.
Wise Bread is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
I received one of these cards in the mail today and my mouth dropped! I knew I didn't apply for anything because I already know about the fees these so called "pre-paid debit cards" are charging people. Some one really needs to do something about this company! How dare you put my name on this crap and I didn't ask for it. The funny thing about this is the card looks so legit! Its a real VISA debit card. These people should be shot!!!
They should be shot??? You're a moron. If you don't like them sending that kind of stuff to you then stop giving your name and address out to people who can sell it to card companies. Stop singing up for stupid **** and you wouldn't get cards like that in the mail. Also, it IS a real debit card you idiot. Its just not activated until you do so.
Are you guys kidding? This kind of thing happens all the time, especially to college students. It is not at all uncommon and, as is the case with all cards sent unsolicited through the mail, nothing happens with them until they are activated. I do not think this is some huge deal that actually calls for comments like "In conclusion, this is probably the most distasteful customer acquisition tactic I have ever seen because it really made us feel a bit violated." Violated? Seriously, my boss at work touching me inappropriately would "violate" me. You people throw around such words as if they have no strong meaning attached to them. Sure this is annoying and it makes you get up and find a pair of scissors to cut up a card (oh my god - getting off my American lazy ass? Oh no!)...but you people are ridiculous.
seriously? Who even cares abt someone sending a card? I get cards with my name all the time and think nothing of it at all. I am like, oh a card, I dont need it. Its not a real credit card, just debit. Threw them out dont even shred it because theres NO risk with debit. People in comments acting outraged need to grow up get a life and get a clue because companies sell information every single day! It doesnt effect credit scores , or you in any way.
You guys are so ridiculous. NetSpend is the best option for those "underbanked" people like me! and it's great!
They don't even do a credit check because they know that poor people like me is having a hard time getting a bank account! so you people shut up!
WHY WOULD NetSpend "even do a credit check"? As Xin said first off, it's a pre-pay debit card. Like what, they're rules are really lax about letting people spend their own money or something?!! Pre-pay cards don't check credit.
This type of card may be great for some, but that does not undo the bad acts Netspend perpetrated - outright stealing and withholding others' money. We pay co's like them for convenience and look what they do. And don't ever try to save your money with Netspend for a rainy day, etc - they will drain it away chunk by chunk. Never hide your NS card in a drawer thinking you'll have $ there later for when you need it. POOF! Your 'savings' will be gone....
For those in need of this type of card, check out GreenDot (as mentioned), Mango, BankFreedom cards and many others. I am shopping for an alternative to NS and see there are $5/month ones and some with free load'g, etc, etc....
(fyi)card waiting for activation and stolen card are two diiferent things.
A NetSpend debit card was mailed to our home the other day. But it was addressed to my 14 year old daughter!!! Luckily she showed it to me before she could activate it. Is it legal for debit and/or credit cards to be sent to minors? On Monday I plan on calling the CEO of the company (Dan Henry) and giving him a piece of my mind. I also plan on filing a complaint with the Federal Reserve Consumer Agency.
As stated before - it's not a credit card - it's a prepaid card. If you don;t load any money on it then it is never activated.
I've used NetSpend for almost 4 years now and ordered two additional cards for my kids. This way when they are out with friends and low on cash I can instantly put money on their card and it costs me nothing to do so. You can also do direct deposit for free to a NetSpend account. The only time it actually costs you money to use their card is at an ATM or when loading at one of their stores. I use mine for my paypal account mainly so if it gets pirated I won't be out much cash and there's no way that someone could run up any serious debt on it. They also have a great savings account plan with good interest.
Not as evil as people are making them out to be but I do agree that it's a bit over the top to be sending the cards out unsolicited. Blame Capitol One for that.
My 12-year old "niece" was playing a game at stardoll.com today and ended up being signed-up for a NetSpend Visa Prepaid Debit Card. She *now* knows not to give ANYONE any personal information but no attempt was made to ascertain her age during her session. Her mother is filing a complaint.
I am annoyed that such solicitations could stem from children's amusements. Having read all these earlier comments, I find we are dealing with parasites despite the occasional positive report. They should be limited to ethical business practices, as should all banks as well!
I too received one of these cards 2 days ago and I cannot believe some of these
commenters are saying it is not a bad thing and no harm was done or that they are actually using an immoral, infiltrating company Most likely they applied for the cards, which is a big difference I too, was shocked and alarmed and thought that a bad joke had been played on me and in my area that is a common thing I am so glad I read the brochure, which mentioned it was an offer and debit card and that I came to the website to further investigate, now I know to shred it and not even bother calling them
I would have ended up with charges myself. What I don't understand is why they would send out to a person who is doesn't have working income. That is pretty stupid of them right there assuming everyone they contact would even be able to give them
money. I am sorry for all the misfortune that anyone has accumulated, but why would
any of you bother not checking into this in the first place. I am glad I used my head on this one. Thank you for having this site available for information and I will be filing a complaint myself.
ugg! thanks for the post, i was wondering if i was getting alzheimers or if there was something fishy. i got one of these cards today too, and my wife was upset with me over it! netspend will definitely not get our business. how cheap
This is just a promotional card. I came across this board because an as-of-recently-no-longer-homeless guy told me that he had them for many years, and they offer 5% on savings, and I wanted to research it further. NetSpend is good for some people but not all. If I had gotten this card, it would be shredded. I get airline cards with my name on it and trash them. They are simply promotional items trying to entice you to activate the card.
It got your attention. It must be working. Now get over it!
To Simply put it................I love your post. It is exactly how I felt. I feel they are over exaggerating the situation.
Wow, this has to be one of the most pointless articles I have ever read.
What exactly is the point behind this article?
First off, many cards and notices about accounts we don't want are sent out to people every single day. Blame it on a society where getting an email address or a street address is as easy as hitting a phone book or looking into records.
You do not have to ask for something in our society to have it shoved at you.
Is it distasteful? maybe, but the majority of ppl who also didn't want this card, probably didn't activate it, cut it up, and moved on with their life.
I doubt they wrote articles about how "distasteful" and "offended" they are.
I applaud your sense of social justice but get real, what century are you living in?
Anyone who joins a program now in days without reading the fine print, deserves wha they get.
The greendo cards? Are you kidding me? The fees are more outlandish.
You do need to understand your fees and what is going to make sense for you. For example, if I reload at the walmart gas station near me? 2.00, speedway down the street? 5.00? See the difference?
Honestly, the fact that ppl are on here actually freaking out about "unsocilited" cards and "outlandish" fees, ebcause they were too stupid to read the fine print or to live realastically?
How about this lesson, be smart enough to know how to hold your own, if you aren't a lawyer, start thinking like one, and good luck with those green dot cards, they're pieces of trash and will cost you more to load each time than my netspend card will cost me.
Although I appreciate that some people will seize any opportunity to write that lazy Americans should get-off-their-asses and cut up the unsolicited cards, they miss the point. I am tired of being sent stuff I didn't request and having to take time to deal with the issues.
I received a card yesterday with someone else's name on it. Knowing NOTHING about this company, I spent some time trying to decide if 1) I needed to return the card to its rightful owner, 2) run a credit check on every member of my family to see if our identities had been stolen and/or 3) make up the guest bedroom for the stranger who is apparently preparing to move in with us.
Fortunately, I found this site and now know that I can shred the card since it was just another meaningless piece of junk sent by a financial "services" company, with no product to sell and lots of greedy little piggy-people feeding at its trough. Maybe, if it cost more to send this junk out, netSpend would target their potential market more thoughtfully.
I, like many others, received an unrequested NetSpend Visa in today's mail. I called to inquire about why I received this card without my consent and spent 15 minutes going back-and-forth in their automated call center hell.
My hope is that they'll be out of business relatively soon.
The point of this article is to inform others since it seems like a lot of other people were confused and upset that they received an unrequested REAL debit card. I get fake credit cards from companies all the time, but they are obviously fake and it is not a big deal. This card had an unique number and is almost ready for use. So I would say that there is a difference between this "promotion" and other spam.
If you guys that are complaining about the Netspend cards that are being sent to you, you do need to get off your lazy asses and acutally do some research. Netspend does not send REAL cards in those letters. Those are temp. cards. IF you activate the card, and YES they do check to see if you are who you say you are, THEN they will send you your actual card. My wife and I have had a Netspend card for a little over two years now, and yes i agree some of the fees are a little out there, but for those of us that do not have much money and are living paycheck to paycheck cannot afford the fees that a regular bank wants to charge for overdraft protection, annual fees, buying checks, paying upwards of $10.00 for a replacement debit card, not to mention all of the other random fees that a bank wants to charge, don't really have a choice. I speak from experience. We had an account at Wachovia. They are a good bank, but as we almost always have, we live paycheck to paycheck. We would sometimes overdraw by somewhere between $1.00 to around $20.00. The fees that they charged us were completely uncalled for. We closed the account after they told me that because i had overdrawn by $22.00 that i had to pay them an additional $50.00. Since we started using Netspend, I have yet to had to pay an overdraft fee. And again, some of their fees are a little high, but when you are on the poor side of the street, you really dont have many choices. So, I would suggest that BEFORE you start trying to files complaints about unsolicited cards being sent to you, get off of your ass and actually do a little research.www.netspend.com
when they give you options on the phone, just push any button or do the "stay on the line and someone will assist you" option.
even if its the wrong dept. they can transfer you.
Today we received a "Netspend" card, and in fact it has our address on it and another persons name. I'd stay away from this comapny as thier data looks pretty unsecure to me by this action. Oh, and I tried calling to cancel it....no option on the automated system. It sends you to the web page, where again, there is not option to cancel without activating it first. I'm suprised VISA is supporting this type of mischief......
Dan in Phx
I received a NetSpend credit/debit card in the mail. It has the correct address but the wrong name. since I only have 3 neighbors I knew it was not a card they applied for and had a simple typo on the street number. I called NetSpend and after 2 1/2 hrs and several disconnects got nowhere. I called the FTC to report them, they now have the information. They suggested that I call the credit bureaus to put a fraud alert on my account, which I did. They also suggested that I call my banks to alert them, which I did. I have now wasted over 1/2 day just to hopefully make sure that my credit is not destroyed and my bank accounts cleaned out.
I highly recommend that others report this company as well to protect your credit and maybe close this unscrupulous company down!!
The Netspend card is a financial tool, like a checking, or savings account. If someone has had financial difficulty in the past, tools like Netspend or any sort of Debit-Transaction Card is a good choice. Many persons coming through bankruptcy are now finding this a significant alternative. My wife and I both have these types of cards that we use as alternatives to writing checks, or putting something on a credit card where the interest will start accumulating quickly. It has helped to discipline the "buy it now pay it later" American brainwashing to a more "is this really necessary or can we save up for it". Besides that, Netspend is the processor for private branded cards from others such as Capital One so.....
i've recievd one yesterday..im in HS thus my mom yelled at me saying i dnt even work how come i applied for this which i never did!! i was stunnd...i still have the card but im not gonna activate it...thanks for ur xperience tho it helpd me cuz i ddnt kno wut to do at first w/ the card!
I received a Netspend card today and after 37 minutes on the phone, their best answer was that they don't know who gave them my information, let alone the fact that they had my maiden name... So much for the FTC opt out procedures... If they don't reply to my email inquiry requesting to know who provided them with my information, I will be filing an FTC complaint - this is a horrible marketing practice!
I think you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. It's a pre-pay debit card. If you doint want it don't use it. They most likely got your address from one of thoes marketing things. Since you are filling complants are you sending them in on all the "pre approved" credit you recive. Please give me a break you have too much time on your hands.
Well, its obviously not a hoax... the cards are real and the company provides a real debit card service. I have to agree with the majority here, that their method of expanding the customer base is tactless and somewhat unscrupulous. Probably the most notable fact in this thread is that with the exception of this last post from Guest 76, all of the actual netspend customers who posted seem content with the service, despite the fact that they are undoubtedly paying higher fees than those charged by some of the other prepaid debit providers. Many people can benefit from this type of service, but it is certainly wise to check out the other options before deciding to sign up.
OMG, I'm so sorry for what you are going through Guest 76. First I really hope that your daughter will be okay and I hope you get your money soon and find a better financial company.
I just got this card in the mail and came right to the web to do research, figuring it was a scam (which it is). Strangely though, about 2 weeks ago, someone (online) also gained access to one of my legitimate credit cards and charged around $350.00 on it (which my credit card company did NOT make me pay). I wonder if the two are connected...In any case, thanks for your information about this card...it helped me to figure out what I was dealing with...
I've read the comments by some other people on here and would like to respond.
#1- You are lucky to be in a position to have the financial freedom to turn something like this down.
#2- We are also the "working poor" and have had an account with this company for 5+ years. Never once have we had any problems. They have EXCELLENT customer service and we are so happy with our experience.
We could go out and get a regular bank account but they charge OUTRAGEOUS fees for everything. That "free" checking account you have isn't actually free. Whenever (if ever) you overdraft you get charged a $37.00 fee for each transaction or everyday your account is overdrawn. When I overdraft (if I ever do) I get charged NOTHING! If the money isn't there, it isn't there. Your bank allows charges to go through even if there is no money in your account to cover it. My "bank" (yes, it is a real bank) doesn't allow that.
I may be part of what you feel is a lower class, but my grasp on money and how to manage it has evolved greatly since we were given a chance by this company.
It's understandable that you would be upset by an unsolicited card, but you shouldn't go around blasting a company that is doing great things for others.
And yes, your information was sold to that company. That's the only way they could have gotten it. Don't be mad at them....get mad at the people who sold the info.
My spouse got this offer and I have been thinking about getting one of these cards myself. I have very good credit and am working to pay off my credit cards. I like this because I can put myself on a budget. Let's say I want to spend $500.00 a month. I load the card with $500.00 and I keep a running total of my expenses, if I run out of money on my card, that's it...I can't spend any more money. I am assuming that if I try to buy anything I can't because I have no more money in my account. Unlike a check, that I can bounce (and fees apply), this will probably decline because of lack of funds. Can someone tell me if there are fees that apply if I try to buy something and my card declines?
Anyway, these type of debit cards seem like a good thing....
I just got a card in the mail. Thanks for sharing your story, I went online to find out what this Visa is all about.
I don't understand why you were sent this card without applying but there would be no threat of your money being taken. This is a pre-paid card and you would first have to load it with your own funds. I have one of these cards and it has been the BEST thing that has come out. It gives me the convenience of using a debit card without the risk of going in debt. Also it frees me from having to use a bank. I do not trust the practices of banks and I feel they set people up for overdrafts in order to hit them with penalties.
Capital One never acquired NetSpend. There seems to be an awful lot of misinformation with regard to this, so here's a link to an Austin Business Journal article on the subject:
http://austin.bizjournals.com/austin/stories/2007/11/19/daily9.html
For what it's worth, there's no harm in being cautious upon receiving any unsolicited offers in the mail. But you might want to stop short of hysteria in the future.
Margot B, the link you posted said Capital One acquired a minor interest in the company and they are on NetSpend's board of directors. It's not a full purchase but obviously the two companies have ties. A minor interest in acquisitions could mean up to 49% of the company.
One came in the mail this week for my daughter who is not even 18 yet!
I think you are over reacting. Look, its a PRE-PAID a plastic card. It has NOTHING to do with your credit or stealing money from you. It cant. The only way to use this card is to call and put money on it. Its a great Idea. People gives these out as gift cards for Christmas gifts all the time. If you dont want it throw it away or give it to someone who has bad credit ans can get a card. Now days you have to have a card for reservations, tow trucks ect. It gives the credit unfortunate the same possibilities as everyone else. It was merly an advertisement that was sent to you.
Ive had a netspend card for 3 years, its fine. Its pre-paid, each time you spend it or add money, it builds up credit for you. You have to read more about it and talk to the people at Netspend. Its been fantastic for me.
Not to ask a silly question but if this card is working such wonders for your credit.... then why are you still on netspend??
Ive had to use a netspend card for about a year now. I can't get a checking account right yet because I am going through a divorce and my husband ran up rubber checks and before i knew it the account was closed and sent off to collections. But anyways, I haven't had that much of a problem with netspend. The only issues that i don't agree with and wish would be changed (but i know they won't because it's all about the money) is they charge you a fee to put money on your card. I don't agree with that. It's your card and your money why should you be charged to add money to it. Then you get charged a fee each month. As soon as my situtation gets better I will be going through a regular bank and will close out my netspend.
IVE BEEN WITH NETSPEND FOR OVER 3 YRS, I OPENED IT TO USE FOR ONLINE PURCHASES. I RUINED MY CREDIT DUE TO A VERY BAD DIVORCE CASE. IT CAN BE EXPENSIVE, 2-5 DOLLARS TO RELOAD, 1 TO USE, OUCH!!! BUT MY DAUGHTER LIVES 200 MILES FROM ME AND IM A TRUCK DRIVER (48 STATES) AND I GOT HER ONE AND SO I CAN TRANSFER $ ONTO HER CARD, AT NO COST, BUT THEN SHE GETS HIT WITH 1 CHARGES FOR HER PURCHASES. WALMART HAS COME OUT WITH THE SAME SCAM. BUT PEOPLE WITH BAD CREDIT, ( AND THE LIST IS GROWING HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE ) THE GOOD THING IS YOU CANT OVER-DRAFT AND CANT BE HIT WITH BANKS O-D FEES (35-39 A POP) AND THE IDENITY THEFT ISSUE DOES NOT EFFECT ME BECAUSE I LOAD MONEY AND THEN USE IT ALMOST IMEDIATLY
If you want to stop getting things like these then you need to stop surfing the internet! Or change your ways... I know exactly where mine came from because I use my nickname when I surf the internet instead of using my birth given name and guess what name this "Unsolicited" card came in.... no go ahead take a guess; yes my nick name. Which probably explains the person who's dog got one. She probably signed up for some free coupons for pet products and gave the dogs name. If you wanna figure out what's junk comming from the internet surfing most computer using Americans do, try using a different first name or last name and when the junk mail in that name arrives in your post box, you'll know... TRASH IT. Additionally watch out for those "ONLINE SURVEY's" they'll get ya every time. Those are mailing list builders from beginning to end.
PS Sorry for the poor english.. country girl is my first language, english is my second.
i actually work for a company that sells netspend cards and they're not half bad. i get them for free, since we sell them, but i have purchased them for other people. netspend cards are the alternative to individuals who hate banks and have less than perfect credit. they offer free direct deposit and free withdrawals when you have direct deposit and they also offer a savings account with a 5% interest rate, thats better than any bank out there. there are no overdraft fees and if you plan on using the card alot, you can sign up for a 9.95 a month plan to swipe as many times as you want. you can load up to $10,000 on a card and they can be used internationally. the only bad thing about them is their customer service line. it is virtually impossible for customers to speak to a live representative, but if you visit an authorized netspend location the associates there have a different number and can get you connected.
and for everyone who has received a netspend card and doesn't want it, just shred it. don't activate it and get on with your lives. these cards are not credit cards, there is no credit check, and they will not help or ruin your credit. they ask for your personal information when you activate it, to make sure its a match. if your ssn and your dl number dont match, they wont allow you to use it. oh and also, minors can't get cards. the people who received these cards were probably just on a mailing list and you received the card just like you would receive any other type of junk mail so get over it.
i practically wrote a book here, but i just had to respond to the many misconceptions about netspend cards. i think the author of the post should have done more investigating with actual netspend retailers instead of just going by what was read online.
i was applying for a car loan a few months back online i i think ive been scammed. now ive recieved this netspend card with my name on it and i am really nervous. i am ony 18 and i am fearing to be a victim of identity theft. ive recieved the card about two months ago. today i tried to make a purchase online but my bank account of 600 is gone. i am going to get my statement and check in with the credit bereau. if i am a victim, i will request for a new ssn. i feel violated and this netspend company aggitated me soooo bad. any advice on furth action? -wes thanks
This card has nothing to do with your credit. How hard is it to realize that? They don't check your credit and since you can't be late with any payments it doesn't effect your credit score. You can not use this card without putting any money on it. Also no matter if they do send it and someone else happens to receive it, they will get a rude awakening because they will be asked to send in proper ID before the card can be used.
All you have to do it go to their homepage and READ. It's pretty simple to understand. Want a low cost solution to pay bills/shop online, pay bills or even just not spend what you don't have. (the reason this country is so far into debt) then this is the solution.
Our family has been part of the netspend family for years. We get our tax refunds online, direct deposit our paychecks, pay bills online and off. We've never had an iota of a problem.
Customer service can be shaky but where isn't it these days. AT&T had barely speaking english reps answering their phones should I call them scammers? They also hassle me for different services every time I call. Should I blow that off just because they were doing it over the phone? Should I be reporting them to the feds? Nope because they didn't do anything wrong. It's not a legal card until you activate it and you can't activate it without proper ID and Proper funds.
I may be poor but I am not stupid. While everyone else is paying the bank checking fees and credit cards are charging everyone interest and bloated rates, mine never change and I only spend what I put into it. I can't go into debt because it's my choice not to.
To the woman with the daughter in the hospital. I'm sorry your daughter is in the hospital but this isn't the place. Take it to them and solve it. They charge .50 per balance request. (which is cheaper than inquiring at the local atm. They do not charge for customer service.
NetSpend Prepaid Debit Cards are issued by Inter National Bank or MetaBank, members FDIC. (Please see back of card for your issuing bank.) NetSpend is an authorized Independent Sales Organization ("ISO") of Inter National Bank and MetaBank. Subject to funds availability. Transaction fees, terms and conditions apply. All trademarks, service marks and registered marks are the properties of their respective owners.
All-Access Savings Accounts are issued by Inter National Bank, member FDIC. Interest is calculated on the average daily balance of your All-Access Savings Account and paid quarterly. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of July 16, 2008. No minimum balance is necessary to open the account or obtain the yield. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account. This is a promotional rate. Rates are subject to change without notice.
*Approval of accounts are based on the ability of NetSpend to verify personal information provided. The USA PATRIOT Act is a Federal law that requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account. You will be asked to provide your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow us to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documentation and proof of identification. “100% Approved” is contingent upon successfully passing this mandatory identification confirmation.
hey i got one 2 thats so weird lol. im 12.
I, too, received a card in the mail without even having ever heard of Netspend. Of course, when I call them, there is no way to actually speak to a representative without agreeing to their terms. How can I reach a human being at this place without saying yes to terms I don't agree with??
I too have been targeted by this Net Spend company; allow me to explain:
I opened my email account today and noticed two consecutive email messages from this Netspend company, who until just now, had never even heard of.
The first message (which I almost just reported as spam, and probably should have) had something in the title "like 'regarding your new account... etc".
When I opened the email it said that my new Net Spend card that I'd ordered (!?), had been accidentally sent to the wrong address... and would I please phone their toll-free 800 number to verify my correct address!!
The second email from them said.. "no, sorry, it was a mistake and that everything with my new debit card was 'just fine' and said I didn't need to call them after-all, and to please disregard the previous notice".
I thought about the tactic they are trying to use here, and it became very apparent just how unscrupulous these people must be. First, they have me thinking that I've ordered a card that I hadn't, that they've sent said card to the wrong address, with me being responsible for this card that someone would be able to use and I might end up in deep trouble for... etc etc.. Then they write again to assure me that YES, it's ok, the card is being successfully delivered !???
This has got to be one of the most underhanded, low-down SCAMS that any company can possibly "legally" get away with. I, for one, am appalled.
I received a Netspend card in the mail. I have had a bank account but have been KILLED with overdraft fees. I was curious so I called the number and someone explained to me that I can use this instead of my bank account. I tried it and it's AMAZING. If you don't want to try it, throw it away. What's the big deal? Stop complaining and get on with your life.
You people are absolute idiots. It's a freaking mailing list with millions of names on it. Those lists aren't perfect, nor will they ever be.
The cards you got are just dead pieces of plastic until you activate it or add funds to it. They don't have any special information about you--nor do they need it to print a card. All they need is your name and address. Printing your name on a dead piece of plastic is no different than printing your name on a piece of paper. Get over yourself!
The reason everyone's freaking out is b/c you're misinformed. Do your research before you start making acquisations and idle threat about "reporting." Listening to some idiot blogger that doesn't know jack about the prepaid industry, laws or regulations or how direct marketing works is ridiculous. Big companies have lawyers and regulators that are required to keep them in compliance with all applicable laws. Ths company is no different.
You're all a bunch of mindless drones with nothing better to do but get your panties in a wad over something that doesn't even matter. Pathetic, really.
Finally someone who has some sense. You are 110% dead on and thanks. Common sense is all it takes.
NETSPEND HAS JUST RECENTLY STARTED THIS PATHETIC MARKETING PLOY. THEY ARE LOSING CUSTOMER IN DROVES FROM TERRIBLE CUTOMER SERVICE AND TO WALMART WHO RECENTLY CAME OUT WITH SAME TYPE OF CARD. I HAVE BEEN WITH THIS COMPANY FOR 3 YEARS WITHOUT MANY PROBLEMS UNTILL RECENTLY. A COMPANY CHARGED MY ACCT 35.00 AFTER I USED THE CARD WITH THEM 8-9 TIMES CHARGING 1.00, FIRST I CALLED NETSPEND TO DISPUTE THE CHARGE. I WAS TOLD BY A PLEASANT INDIAN GENTLEMAN TO NOT WORRY THE MONEY WOULD BE IN MY ACCT IN 6-7 DAYS. I THOUGHT THIS WAS WONDERFULL, UNTIL I CHECKED AND FOUND OUT THAT I HAD TO DOWNLOAD A DISPUTE FORM AND FAX IT TO NETSPEND. 2 WEEKS LATER I RECEIVED A LETTER ASKING ME TO FAX THE SAME INFO TO NETSPEND. I CALLED AND WAS TOLD IF I WANTED TO ATTEMPT, YES ATTEMPT TO GET A REFUND I HAD TO SEND THEM THE INFO AGIN. I DONT HAVE A FAX AND SPENT 4 DOLLARS ON THE FIRST FAX AND DONT SEE THE VALUE OF PLAYING GAMES WITH NETSPEND. I JUST BOUGHT A WALMART CARD FOR MY ONLINE PURCHASES, AND TO TRANSFER MONEY TO MY DAUGHTER, WHEN SHE NEEDS MONEY IN AN EMERGECY. ps
The person who originally wrote this post is obviously someone with nothing else to write about, and she also cannot read. First of all, this is not a credit card. It is a prepaid debit card. It is a great alternative to a bank account, which can charge you fees that you do not know about until after you receive your statement, which only charges against what you put on the card, which is a great way to track money. Think of it as an American Express card for those of us who cannot get one. The fact that VISA is printed on it does not make it a visa credit card. It is simply a debit card, and to get all upset over something that only deducts from what you actually put on it, is really a waste of time. Prepaid debit cards are a great way to go, you either use or don't, you keep or throw out. Netspend is written up in Wikipedia as a great alternative source of managing your money. On Wikipedia: NetSpend’s stated goal is to provide consumers who lack established credit or banking relationships with the security, flexibility and convenience typically associated with debit and credit cards.
It was launched by two brothers who came to the US from Mexico, and with an initial investment of $750, they created netspend to help people in the subprime market. In other words, for people who usually have to deal with the indignity of subprime fees and costs, this is a fair alternative. I can only assume the person who wrote this article has never been there, but that is no reason to be ignorant about the rest of the population.
also, I suppose the person who wrote this article would rather get a "credit" card, which will charge you an initiation fee, a monthly fee, an over the limit fee, and an annual fee, as opposed to a pure debit card, which can only possibly deduct what you put on there. duh... netspend is a wise alternative to credit
Connie, perhaps you should learn to read. I specifically said it was a debit card even in the title. I have several credit cards, and none of them had an initiation fee or monthly fee. It depends on what type of credit cards you get. Yes, there are overlimit fees, but you can avoid that by not spending over limit.
Almost since the invention of the internet, there have been programs that identify your ip address when you open a website and from that, everything about you can be determined: name, address, phone number, etc. etc. Companies trade such information and it's not illegal since it was gotten by YOU visiting THEM. It is how a majority of former telephone marketting companies now do business.
You don't want unsolicited offers of debit cards, cable TV, life insurance or anything else? The answer is simple.
Get off the computer and stay off and conduct all your financial affairs in cash. Just applying for telephone service and or a bank account opens you up to intrusions from both the business community and the government. (Read the fine print of your contract with the local phone company or bank if you doubt this.) Your personal information is not secure in this day and age unless you live in total isolation.
You got a piece of plastic in the mail that is absolutely worthless unless YOU do something first. The account doesn't exist until YOU make it exist. Did it cost you anything? No.
This company is horrible. My 16 y/o daughter was in Apollo Beach Florida and was sent emergency cash to get home to Fort Walton Beach (450 Miles away). The clerk at the Western Union desk inside Winn Dixie offered the money on the NetSpend card. It never worked, my daughter got stranded with no working cell phone 1/3 of the way home in the middle of nowhere. It almost cost her life. This company needs to be locked up. They are crooks. There is no customer service, only automated machines that don't even address anything. Their toll free number doesn't even work in Florida. The web is loaded with case after case. I've written Winn Dixie and told them point blank I'm a longtime customer but I'll never shop there again untill I know they no longer carry this card. That's how strong I feel about it.
Think about it. The only time anyone ever gets money sent Western Union, It's pretty well an emergency. The last thing anyone should ever do is get a Netspend card instead of cash. This almost turned out tragic for this family.
Gary Workman
I'm now using my NetSpend account as my primary bank. I left E-Trade due to them dinging my account with 2 NSF fees even though I was able to prove I had funds available at the time. They wouldn't back down, so I left them!
I find it incredible that some of you call NetSpend fraudulent just because they sent you an unsolicited prepaid card. If you don't want it, don't activate and then cut it in half. End of subject. You won't have an actual account set up until you actually activate it, so chill out!
What a bunch of frail little flowers we've become if we're getting freaked out over receiving a debit card in the mail.
For the record, I've had ZERO problems with NetSpend but I've had plenty of problems with other banks!
Tim Flowers
Greensboro NC
I recieved one, deposited money ,activated it, and have been using it without any hidden fees! They even send me free emails from my account if there is a purchase or withdrawels to my cell phone! I can easily put money into my account when I go to Murphies outside of Walmart and they only charge you 1.95 fee for the service! I love it! Gary
They charge you to deposit money? That sounds like a ripoff
I bought into the idea of a pre-paid card for our daughter whom is in college, thinking this would be a cheap way of sending her money. What a joke, when someone got ahold of her information and charged $272.92 at a online Target. NOTE: Net Spend is not like a regular bank, if someone gets ahold of your information and fraudulently uses your card you are screwed. It has been 4 months we have filed the dispute, sent in everything they required, and note they posted funds back to her account but have not sent a new card so she could obtain her money. We have jumped through all their hoops and are still getting a run around.Not a wise option if you like your money.
has anyone transferred from paypal to netspend ? just wondering how long it usually takes, i transferred a few days ago and it says cleared thru paypal but it hasnt cleared netspend. is there usually a certain day/time it clears or just random ?
Firstly, I have no problem with a company trying to put their name out there and trying to succeed in today's economy.
But...
I have never used any cards other than my bank issued debit card and my school's Higher One card for financial aid refunds.
About a month ago, I signed up for my first credit card (yay) which happened to be a Discover card for college students. And then today in the mail I get this NetSpend card. After reading everyone's responses I will most definitely cut up this card and dispose of all evidence, lol.
The point of my story is that I think the problem with NetSpend's tactics is that in a day and age where identity theft is such a huge issue, the company is not being sensitive to people's need for privacy. Undoubtedly Discover sold my information to NetSpend and I think the credit card companies are to blame.
Recieved one of these today and quickly called the company to see why I am recieving this card that I didn't apply for! I get an automated voicmail that has nothing to do with NetSpend! Has this horrible company been shut down? I sure hope so!
Don't go to a moneygram location to load your card, they're a ripoff based on outrageous Western Union fees. Murphy Gas in front of any Walmart will charge you 1.96 for any amount. My direct deposits are in my account 3-4 banking days earlier than my regular bank account, figure that one out. I, too, was fed up over the regular bank's manipulation of my deposits and clearing of transactions so that they could make money off of fees. I was part of a class action lawsuit against a major bank that we won because of their unscupulous practices. I pay a flat 9.99 fee monthly and use it unlimited. I can transfer money to my hubby's acct. when he is on the road for free from a computer or by using my cellphone w/text message. It is hard to figure out how to talk to a real person but it can be done.
I got one in the mail today. A bit perplexed I called them to ask them why I was receiving the card. I had used one in the past maybe 6 years ago but hated spending the money to add money. So I call the only number provided and it's the activation number. I don't enter the card acct # and try to get a live person. "Your hold time is 3 minutes" A guy by the name of "Ron" with an accent answers and asks for the account number. I ask him why I got it in the first place. I don't recall the answer but he continued with: "so anyways the card is inactive..." "But why are you wasting pap..." I was cut off. He threw me back into the main menu. So I called back and this this time the hold is going to be 5 minutes. Eleven minutes later and angry, I hang up. I don't know what else to think about the whole matter. It's all a bit shocking because a lot of weird little things have been happening ever since I signed up with one of those identity protection sites. Maybe I'm just paranoid. Shouldn't I be?
Same story here - opened the mail to find a credit card that we didn't apply for. And since we didn't apply for it I wonder if Netspend violated any laws requesting or extending credit, pre-paid or otherwise. There are laws: Business can't run credit reports on you without a legitimate business purpose. And since we didn't request this, no type of contractual agreement - who is unauthorized 3rd party to assume I want anything to do with them, let alone peek at my credit and lower my score?
Bottom line, we thought we were being scammed or worse, identity theft when this card arrived in the mail. I wonder how many people are taken advantage of by this company. One things for sure, I have absolutely NO confidence in their ethics or business practices. We won't be using them for anything other than the shredder once the Atty General gets his copy.
Just received an unsolicited debit card from netspend and immdiately cut it up after reading your experience. That's the best thing to do- cut it up and throw it away... Thanks.
I recieved one of these netspend cards in the mail, while waiting on a walmart money card. At first i thought it was the same card and activated then realized the fees on this card were out of this world. I cant figure how they got my information and not to happy with it either while the moneycard only charges $3.00 a month for use this netspend has a fee everytime you use it. Beware of this evil card.
Im only 15 and received this card today. I was gonna activate it but i did some research on it. So many complaints and thingys so i was like forget it. Throw this card away.
I have had a netspend card for awhile now. yes i sought it out. This is a debit card and not credit card. It is the same as those prepaid visas you can get at a 7-11. It has no value unless you add money. It is not tapped into your bank or credit information. I have yet to have a problem with card yet and I use it all the time to pay for items on ebay. To put money on the card it costs me $2.00. That is less than your average atm fee at atm other than your normal bank. I cannot understand this panic you people are feeling. It seems the mob mentality is kicking in.
Thank u for your story I just received this card in the mail today which I never applied for & was thinking about activating it before I read ur story. So once again AGAIN!!!
I received a netSpend card too and I was wondering why they sent it. I was expecting a debit card from Office Depot for a rebate and I thought maybe this was the card. However, when I called the toll free number to register the card and it got to the point where it asked for my social security number, I screeched to a halt. Was I crazy? What was I doing? I immediately hung up the phone. Who are these people and what do they want? Is this legal what they are doing and why do they need the social? They ask for the birthdate, SSN and they already have the address. What more do they need to steal your ID? To the shredder it goes.
I find it odd that you were sent a card. Did someone sign you up as prank? I wouldn't feel so FIRE ALARM about it though.
For the last 6 months I have been very pleased with my Netspend Prepaid Visa. My friend has a Rush/BabyPhat Prepaid and he loves it. I pay $10 per month and no other fees. His has a cap at $10 per month for fees. The online services with Netspend have improved greatly. Customer service good. Rush/Baby Phat Card reports to Credit Bureaus. I earn 5% APY on Netspend Savings Account. We crashed all credit cards and even closed our bank accounts and are much happier and more self managed with the pp cards. I would actually like to invest in RUSHA which is at $12 a share currently.http://www.google.com/finance?client=ob&q=NASDAQ:RUSHA We think pp cards will be a permanent change for many people like us. We are no longer brainwashed to think we must have a regular bank account. We see no reason to have a bank account. Or investments are elsewhere. We are 54 and 55 yrs old.I have a suggestion for your writing.. I know having ONCE lived on the west coast for a few years the word 'hate' or 'I hate" is part of the vernacular. In fact pele thre seem to define themselves by wha the HATe far more oftn than the positive. How about 'dislike' or "do not prefer' instead?
Also how about doing a report on people/families that make less income than you as a story and see how they are weathering the economic situation these days.
All the Best from Chicago.
outdated and of no relation to Rush Communications which is a PRIVATE not Public Company. Rush Communication/Rush PrePaid Visa Cards. Misinfomation on that. Thank you.
I used Netspend for 2 months now! I had many problems with them but they never gave me an answer!
On August 20, they hold $100 when I loaded $100 into my card. I checked online I saw the balance is $100 but the available balance is $0.00. I called them, they said they're holding for some transaction that I never made. I could do nothing but waited. A week later they released $100 for me so I was very happy. Then on Sept 3, I loaded $200 more and then the receipt showed that I only had $100 available, they held $100 one more time. I dont know why they'd do that because I'll spend everything I load in next 15' ( I deposit to my online poker account ), how could I overdraft if it's a pre-paid card?
From now on, I dont use it anymore. I wait until I get my $100 back then I get rid of it. Please do not put money on to the netspend card.
Thanks for reading!
I have a netspend card and it's great. You have to read the fine print for certain transactions especially online stuff they will put a hold on some of your money. That's for your protection
I have received both netspend and Bank Freedom both prepaid cards While netspend charges fees Bank Freedom does not except for a couple at .50 fees. The best thing is that the money routing number is exactly the same. [the netspend and Bank Freedom]
I have used the Walmart money card and have a lot of trouble and you know that when the manager of store tells you that he would not have anything to do with them that there is something to be desired . I am thinking that in fact I know I am going to transfer all the money to one of the above for the the Banking system is getting way out of hand and if people are complaining about these cards they should really start to look into the Banking procedures for they are the ones that ripping people off. They are the ones that should be put into bankruptcy but they would not be for people are to stupid to really check into their practices that is why more and more people are going into these cards. With these cards you know exactly how much money you have and how to or for what to spend.
I also received this card today. I was upset and worried thinking that someone stole my identity. You have to be able to sign the document in order for them to post the card under your name. But the thing is, I never signed it. Credit card, debit card or prepaid card u have to sign an agreement with your signaure. So they are frauds and scammers. Somehow they found out about my information. I called the police and they said "did u call the number on the back of the card?" And I said yes. the line is dead though. And she says that you have to make a complaint to the police. Either come down your self or have them come to your house. I am so doing that. It's a fraud.
So you were bothered? BFD. Stop whining, they didn't 'violate' you in any way.
I'm so sick of this society where everyone feels they have somehow been violated. Please, get some skin and suck it up.
Geezus.
We are getting ready to file Bankruptcy...we have a few judgements that had garnished our bank accounts (we are both unemployed, our bank accounts are now closed.
We had a Capital One card also...I would bet this card would be another way for the collectors to get to us. Give us the card so we put money on it, so they can take it. I have a feeling it was a collector that set us up with the card..
My brother just received a netspend card. After reading this helpful information he going to shred the card.
Ive had mine for a year almost and they offer more free transfers bill pay and even text messageing control on your account. its awsome i get my paycheck a day before everyone else aswell. i recomend them never done me wrong 10 stars for the netspend pre-paid mastercard
I pay $60 a year for unlimited access, the cost of 2-3 bounced checks. I've been using them for over two years and never had a problem. When I was using a bank there was usually "something" that went wrong once a month. either direct deposit not being posted or being posted late, and then being charged overdrafts on stuff when all the transactions happened in the same day.
NEVER HAD A PROBLEM and its well worth the money. Id rather pay for the service up front instead of dealing with a bank Fuc*ing me around.
Dude your husband is a lier. He applied for that card and just didn't want to tell you. Period. Problem solved. You have to go in and apply for that card they don't just send it to you.
haven't you read any of the other stories?? NO ONE applied for this card; it just came to us in the mail.
i also got the card yesterday...unfortunately i activated the card. now i m trying to reach there customer service but i cannot get them because there is no option for customer service but automatic system. can anybody help me with the information how to contact their human customer service.
I too received this card in the mail from netSpend. It happened to be a coincidence that I recently received a letter in the mail from my bank stating that they were issuing all of their customer's a brand new debit card that will have the Visa logo on it instead of the MasterCard logo. Then I received this netSpend card that says: "You're new prepaid debit card has arrived!” with many other things in the letter that seemed so legitimate. But I, being a small-minded 18-year-old, didn't even think of the fact that this new debit card didn't have my current banks logo on it ANYWHERE and that it said "prepaid" on it! So I called and activated it, but when I went to go use it, I got declined. I was distraught. I didn't understand how I could've gotten declined when I had just transferred money from my savings to my checking’s to buy a few essential things. So I called the company, and they told me that there was no record of the 16-digit card number that I supplied them with. I called back several different times and still got the same response. Frantic, I went to my bank, in person, and they told me that this card had nothing to do with them and it must've been a coincidence that they sent this card to me in perfect timing (after they sent their notice out). They also mentioned that netSpend seems legitimate, but that I should definitely cut up the card and cancel my ‘account’. Unfortunately, this company has my information in their systems, and when I went to their website to cancel the account, it states that there is a fee of “$5.95” to cancel this card (which is absurd because I never asked for it in the first place!).
Priscilla that's ridiculous that they want to charge you for cancelling the card especially when you didn't even use their services. I would file a complaint with the BBB and tell them to cancel it without a fee. http://www.bbb.org/us/
I filed a complaint with the BBB on this issue and NetSpend actually responded and said that they have removed my husband's information.
I asked my dad what I should do about this whole netSpend situation and he told me about bbb.com; it's a website that checks out companies to see if they're legitamate or not.
I checked it, and this 'netspend' is apparently legit.
I still think they're really sketchy though.
http://www.bbb.org/central-texas/business-reviews/credit-cards-and-plans...
Ok seriously guys...netspend only provides PREPAID cards, why is everyone freaking out?
Did you see the fees they charge? That's the problem with it. They take advantage of people who are stupid enough to sign up. Haha. Guess they deserve it then. Anyway, there was something similar a few years ago, for kids. You got a debit card for the kids so they didn't have to carry cash. It sounded nice until I looked at the outrageous fees they were charging. Charged for everything,including making a deposit. Imagine, you make a deposit and they charge you a fee. I cancelled that right quick. Just another gimmick to get over on dumb people.
I just went to my mailbox and got one of these cards - with my name on it. I know good and well I never applied for it...but HAVE had prepaid debit cards in the past (maybe that's where they got my name).
At any rate, it's going into the shredder - immediately...as I'm not working now, I don't even HAVE a paycheck to direct deposit into it! I'm not even going to call them to delete the account (but I WILL write the account number down - in case anything ever comes back to bite me in the butt about this alleged "account").
Lord, the ways people try to rip you off!
I to am a victim of the "NetSpend" this company sent a Visa Debit card with my name on it and sent it to my ex husbands wife's house. I never lived in this house her name is on mortgage and she kept her maiden name so not like there could be a connection. I am not sure how they sent mail with my name to her address. I am really upset and can not believe this stupid company randomly sending out Visa Debit cards to people who have never even heard pf there company!!!!!!
well i have one of these cards and i find it....well not bad not so good...ths days evryone needs a Visa or Mastercard, without one u will have a hard life living in US , its a good thing u can just purchase one at a store or order one online without going to the bank....however they send also cards to minors, especially to my neighbors 1 YEAR OLD SON, which i dont like...
gET A GRIP. cREDIT cARD COMPANIES HAVE BEEN DOING THIS FOR YEARS. iF YOU DON'T WANT THE CREDIT CARD THEN DON'T ACTIVATE IT! sIMPLE!N aS FAR AS NETSPEND GOES, FROM MY EXPERIENCE IT IS A PRE-PAID DEBIT CARD THE THE CONSUMER HAS TO PURCHASE FOR TEN BUCKS. YOU LOAD MONEY ON IT AS YOU USE IT. NO FEES OR INTREST CHARGES ETC. GET YOUR FACTS STRIGHT.
I have a net spend visa and I love it. I am not dumb #152! I use it to pay bills and to purchase items online. My sister has a visa, that is not prepaid, and her son used it to purchase a game. Someone got her numbers online and used her card to buy an airplane ticket that cost over $900.00. If they would have stolen mine- so what? They wouldn't have been able to do this. I only load it as I need to. Plus I have never been charged for loading money onto the card!
You all must be easily offended or just enjoy being unhappy so much that you look for reasons to be pissed off!
Oh boo hoo! Someone sent you a prepaid credit card that is worthless unless YOU activate it and YOU put money on it. And it is hardly "fraudulent" or a "scam" unless you are a paranoid freak.
They actually told you that unless and until you activate the account it doesn't exist. That's it, period. It..does..not..exist! Just like every other piece of junk mail you get telling you that you are pre approved for a new credit card, or a car loan, or a mortgage, it wont hurt you, it wont steal your identity; you can toss it, shred it, burn it, whatever you want. Nothing will happen.
You have not been "violated" so stop being such a freakin whiner!
It's actually a pre-paid DEBT card......not a credit card because then your identity most likely could be stolen. And if you don't like "whiners" then leave them alone. What is one's concern just may not be another's. Doesn't mean you have to put your prude opinon in there. These people showed concern......and for that you talk to them as if you were a rabid monkey. Who Peed in your cornflakes?