Top up card

Worried_of_wakefield

Hi all, due to recent press volume regarding hacking etc, I was considering applying for a top up card to use on internet sites, Amazon etc and any purchase where I need to hand over all my card details. Anyone recommend one and are they practical, ie will funds appear instantly should I wish to make a quick purchase that exceeds my 'small' float?

Gerry1

A pre-paid Optimum card should suffice, but beware some sneaky fees although they're not particularly onerous.  You can load it using a Debit card via your online account or mobile app: load is credited immediately.

http://www.myoptimumcard.co.uk/how-it-works/

A debit card on a basic bank account would also work, but banks can be a bit reluctant and fussy about opening them, especially if you're already with them or aren't almost broke.

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/basic-bank-accounts/

afis1904

There's no risk when you put your card details into places like Amazon and if there was, the retailer or bank would have to refund you anyway so I don't really see the point of a top up card. You might want to have the spend go through a separate account for various reasons but a top up card is a waste of money

Tildaplum

It doesnt even have to be a top-up card - you could open eg a Starling account without an overdraft (you get a debit card) and just keep in there your float. Starling will reject any payment requests that are for more than your balance

Gerry1

afis1904 said:

There's no risk when you put your card details into places like Amazon and if there was, the retailer or bank would have to refund you anyway

Good luck with that when you find you have key logger malware...

2e0arr

last time i had a prepaid topup card they were based in gibralter and the call centre was in El Salvador with manuel from faulty towers english.
 Id get a simple credit card with offices in the uk not connected to current account bank.