Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card
Prepaid Card
Offered by:
American Express
Info about the Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card has been collected by WalletHub to help consumers better compare cards.
The financial institution did not provide the details.
Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card's Key Fees
| ACTIVATION FEE |
None |
|---|---|
| MONTHLY FEE |
None |
| SIGNATURE TRANSACTION FEE |
Free |
| PIN TRANSACTION FEE |
Free |
| IN-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
$0 |
| ATM NETWORK SIZE |
30000 ATMs |
| OUT-OF-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
$2.5 |
| FOREIGN ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
None |
| ACTIVATION FEE |
|---|
| None |
| MONTHLY FEE |
| None |
| SIGNATURE TRANSACTION FEE |
| Free |
| PIN TRANSACTION FEE |
| Free |
| IN-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| $0 |
| ATM NETWORK SIZE |
| 30000 ATMs |
| OUT-OF-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| $2.5 |
| FOREIGN ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| None |
Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card's Highlights
| Get free ATM access at over 30,000 MoneyPass® ATM locations |
| You can also pick up cash at over 4,500 Walmart® stores with Cash Pickup Powered by Ria® |
| Send money to anyone with Bluebird2Walmart Money Transfer Powered by Ria®. You can send money for free between Bluebird Accounts |
| Members can make Direct Deposits, pay bills online, add checks with the Bluebird Mobile App, and set up Sub-Accounts — a great new way to manage family spending |
| Purchase Protection can provide coverage against accidental damage or theft of eligible items for 90 days from date of purchase, up to $1,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card member account per calendar year |
| 24 hours a day, 7 days a week world-class American Express Customer Service |
Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card's Additional Info
| LIVE CUSTOMER SUPPORT |
|---|
| Free |
| AUTOMATED CUSTOMER SUPPORT |
| Free |
| RELOAD OPTIONS |
| Direct Deposit, Cash Reload, Bank Transfer, Check Reload |
| CANCELLATION FEE |
|---|
| Free |
| INACTIVITY FEE |
| None |
| Last updated on 12/4/2020 |
Customer Questions and Answers
Don't see what you're looking for? Submit your question about Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card to our community.
Where can I add funds to my Bluebird card besides Walmart? Reply 62
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You can add funds to your Bluebird card setting up a direct deposit, please find here the steps you should follow: https://www.bluebird.com/faqs/#deposit-money. It’s possible to add funds from a checking or savings account, but that depends on your bank’s policies and terms, please find here more information and the steps to follow: https://www.bluebird.com/faqs/#from-a-checking-or-savings-account. Another way to add funds to a Bluebird card is by using a debit card, please find here all the necessary information: https://www.bluebird.com/faqs/#from-a-debit-card. Also, you can add funds with a check, please see here: https://www.bluebird.com/faqs/#checks.
6
Upvotes
I can't get approved to register my card online. I've tried everything they told me. Has anybody else had this problem? Reply 7048
Blake Wolfe
@blakew4
There is no approval. Sign up at the website and activate your card. Must have SSN in order to activate. Easy as that.
70
Upvotes
What option do I choose to withdraw money out of my card: checking, savings or credit? Reply 6347
63
Upvotes
Can I shop online with this card? Reply 5938
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Yes, you can shop online with the Bluebird card as long as the merchant accepts American Express.
59
Upvotes
How long after I make a check deposit until I can use it to make purchases? Reply 2718
Jessica Rose
@whuser66611468
It depends on if your select to get your money instantly for a fee ($5.00min or 5% of check amount) or if you want to wait ten days until the check clears. As soon as you see the money in your account you can spend it.
27
Upvotes
Can I use a credit card to load funds into this card? Reply 2211
WalletHub
@WalletHub
No, you can only add funds by linking your debit card to the Bluebird account. Please find more details here: https://www.bluebird.com/faqs/?intlink=us-bluebird-marketing-home-prospectslp-jun2015prospects-footer-faqs.
22
Upvotes
Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card Reviews
Share your insights and review the Bluebird® American Express® Prepaid Card.
Jun 29, 2020
Dealing with these people is worse than watching my mother die from ALS. Six weeks ago they locked my account, turned off their website, and turned off their APP on my phone. Six weeks of calling their 800 number has only gotten me “just give it another day or two”.
Comment
Jun 12, 2020
Horrible service! Don’t use this shit. I promise u will be sorry. It’s been a month and I haven’t received my money. This is totally a rip-off. Please people, do not use their services. Blue Bird is full of shit .....
May 30, 2020
I have had my Blue Bird card for almost 10 years and I have never had a serious issue with them. Never had my account froze or closed. But reading all of the reviews about them doing that to people makes me nervous, so I got myself a real "grown up" bank account to keep most of my money in. That said, I do like this card.
+The things I like most about my Blue Bird card is that I can keep all my money in the set aside account and just put as much money as I want to spend in the main account. I like knowing that if anyone tried to use my card or charge a sneaking "monthly fee", they would get denied for insufficient funds right away.
+Another thing I like about the card is it is kind of like a secret stash. They do not report to the IRS or any other authority that I know of.
-Con... crappy customer service with people who talk so fast in such a strong accent that you can hardly understand them. I got conflicting information from different customer service reps about the same issue. And neither was correct! (The check cashing service somehow put an instant payment that was for more that the check was in my account. I was told by one person not to touch it, it wasn't my money, and that he was going to report it immediately. It was like he was mad at me for some reason. Another rep told me that there was nothing she could see regarding it nor do about it and to try calling the check cashing company. Well long story short, I researched up on it and if they put extra money in your account from a check, that it is their error and once the money is in your account it is yours. They just eat the difference.
-Another con is that I recently got another Blue Bird account (their site says you can have up to five) but it will not allow me to transfer funds from one account to the other because I am the same person. So what?!… show more
+The things I like most about my Blue Bird card is that I can keep all my money in the set aside account and just put as much money as I want to spend in the main account. I like knowing that if anyone tried to use my card or charge a sneaking "monthly fee", they would get denied for insufficient funds right away.
+Another thing I like about the card is it is kind of like a secret stash. They do not report to the IRS or any other authority that I know of.
-Con... crappy customer service with people who talk so fast in such a strong accent that you can hardly understand them. I got conflicting information from different customer service reps about the same issue. And neither was correct! (The check cashing service somehow put an instant payment that was for more that the check was in my account. I was told by one person not to touch it, it wasn't my money, and that he was going to report it immediately. It was like he was mad at me for some reason. Another rep told me that there was nothing she could see regarding it nor do about it and to try calling the check cashing company. Well long story short, I researched up on it and if they put extra money in your account from a check, that it is their error and once the money is in your account it is yours. They just eat the difference.
-Another con is that I recently got another Blue Bird account (their site says you can have up to five) but it will not allow me to transfer funds from one account to the other because I am the same person. So what?!… show more
May 20, 2020
I call bull shit on the no fees to reload the card u go to walmart an load your card there and they charge u $5.00 to add ur money plus if u wanna go threw walmart to pull money off ur card if i was yall i wouldnt attempt it cause their gonna tell u that u can then when u need it and go to get it their gonna tell u they dont offer money back on bluebird cards done been threw it an done it and whats sad its ur own money an they can regulate jus how u can get it an when and dont go to mcdonalds or places like that if u live in alabama cause they damn sure want take the amex cards... done been down that road as well and not pleased by no means thats 2 times for me that crazy shit like these thing have happened threw walmart bluebird cards and they want be a 3rd… show more
Apr 27, 2020
Absolute the worst! They have the worst security. They contradict their own security clauses. Anyone can get into your account if they know any old email address that you have had linked to your account. And don't change your ATM pin because you will not have access to your money until you spend hours on the phone with them. Absolutely the worst!!!!!!!!!
Apr 22, 2020
Avoid like the plague. Sent money via bluebird to chase bank a month ago, and it still hasnt cleared. Noone is aswering the phone at bluebird. I have no idea what to do.
I have even tried going to the phone option to report a lost or stolen card. No answer there either
I have even tried going to the phone option to report a lost or stolen card. No answer there either
Apr 19, 2020
My thoughts are this...shittiest customer service of any card I've ever had and as soon as I get this ordeal lined out my attorney is going to take you mutherf*ckers to the cleaners believe that !!! Never in my life seen any sh*t like this before !!!
Feb 12, 2020
This card is horrible. i am getting rid of it this week. bluebird holds your money when you make certain purchases for up t o a full week. a ripoff... At times they held almost 200 dollars for days at a time until they decide to release it but its my money. if i could give them a zero rating i would
04/19/20
Im dealing with that shit as we speak but my attorney is getting ready to piece their asses up real proper
Feb 05, 2020
If I could give a negative score I would ! I used the bill payment for the first time to try and pay my car payment as I am out of town. At first it said it would be paid on 31st which I paid on the 27th, then it changed to it was delivered on the 27th but to give my financial institution a few days to post payment, then it turned into 5-7 business days then it was oh well if it doesn’t go through by the 7th business day you will be refunded immediately. I asked several times to speak to supervisor and was denied by an “ Agent Hart” She told me they have no way of tracking the payment .... said nobody gets a copy of signed check that had been deposited or cashed .... so I asked “ you guys just do things all Willy Nilly and hope for the best over there ?!” She sat silent for several moments before saying “ okay, seems like we have everything taken care of.” I proceeded to ask “ How? My car payment hasn’t been made and you can’t tell me where my money has gone. How is that taken care of?” Again, silence . I call today after she told me my money would be returned immediately if not received by financial institution today and now I’m being told I can either A. Stop payment or B. Receive notice as to where this payment is(mind you this is after “ Agent Hart” told me nobody has access to that information). So, I tell her I want both honestly because I want to know where the money went if I don’t have it and the financial institution in which my loan is at doesn’t have it and I also want my money back! I need it so I can pay my damn loan since it is now late and the financial institution in which I have my loan reports monthly and this effecting my credit ! She proceeds to tell me “ ok, the stop payment with take 10 business days...” I stopped her right there and said “ no I want money TODAY! Either I get this money or the bank gets my money for my car payment! I said I asked for a supervisor yesterday and never got one. Today I speak to one and she tells me that it could now only take 2 business days as long as nobody has cashed the check ... that’s right she said that .... how would they know when she again just told me that nobody has access to that information?! So now I get to wait for my money to HOPEFULLY land back in my account somewhere between 2-10 business days MAYBE... oh yeah because she also said in 10 business days I may only receive notice as to what the concluded from their investigation.... taking my money to an ACTUAL bank!! I have had this card for years and this is the first time I’ve tried to use bill pay, this has caused me to choose to just cut my card up and have my funds deposited elsewhere !!… show more
Oct 15, 2019
I have never experienced any customer service line that has such rude and helpless Representatives I have called and spent over two and a half hours today trying to ask a simple question of where to send email back regarding fraudulent charges that were on my account I called yesterday regarding the fraudulent charges that I noticed yesterday the representative got into my account no problem now today I have called seven times spent almost three hours of my time with this they are telling me they need to verify my account in order to answer the stupid question so I keep giving them the information and they keep telling me they cannot verify my account which they did to did just yesterday and that I need to call back when I have the correct information so I said who am I supposed to ask if it is my account and you won't tell me which information you were claiming is incorrect I spoke to supervisors three Representatives the supervisors honestly when worse than the representatives are more impatient and more rude then the last person I spoke to finally gave me another number for the customer account protection line because I was asking who I can call to file a complaint the guy that answered literally less hopeful than anyone else I spoke to and after 3 hours of wasting your time with this and make sure little angry and I was saying to him how it's f****** ridiculous not cursing or saying one wrong thing to him but cursing out of frustration about the situation he told me sorry if you continue to use profanity I am going to hang up on you I said I'm not cursing at you I'm cursing out of frustration I said there should be no reason you should be telling a customer they can't say what they want to say out of anger I said if I was cursing at you I would understand but there's no reason to tell me you're going to hang up on me so I then ask to speak if I was cursing at you I would understand but there's no reason to tell me you're going to hang up on me so I that ass once again if I could speak to somebody higher than a supervisor since they were not helpful he said okay he put me on hold and I was on hold for 45 minutes before I hung off I literally got nowhere in 3 hours of my time and talkin to 10 different people from the company I'm absolutely Furious and will not be using this account again I highly recommend not to get an account from them being that it sounds like most of the representatives are from India or some other country I can barely speak English… show more
Jul 21, 2019
I got so mad at wells Fargo about a year ago because they had allowed charges from my x-wife "on my Account" and caused an avalanche of $35 Overdrafts, So I opened the Bluebird Card by American Express. For the Most Part, I like the Bluebird Card, I have Two Teenagers and I opened Family Accounts with their NAmes on their Own Cards. Teaches Teens Money Management! Also, I can instantly Transfer Funds to My Teenagers and I like that a lot. Now, if We can just Get Amex Bluebird to Instantly Transfer the Funds Back to Us, the Cardholders when a Merchant and/or hotel Releases a Hold on our Card or Refunds Monies back via Returned Item or CRedit. I understand that AMEX has to Make Money Someway with this FEE FREE Card, so I really Don't Complain about this one Little Greed FActor, However, as Many others have Stated on this Forum, I really Really Really Needed the Funds Credited Back ASAP on a Target Store Purchase-Refund, and Amex has Not Even Posted Pending on the Refund and it been two Business Days. I understand they Exercise their Entire 5-7 Days Right to Earn Interest across Thousands of Account Holders, But it Absolutely Hurts when I'm a Disabled Single Father that Uses Bluebird as my Main Debit Card for Essentials Such as Gas, Groceries and Bill payments. Well, this Month My Kids are Suffering because of Amex Debit Card Refund Policy. Seems They are Treating this Debit Card as a Credit Card? And Making us Suffer Long- Extremely Long Delays to Get back our Money when a Store Credit and or Refund is processed by a merchant.
Hope the FTC and or Financial Bureau of Consumer Affairs Steps in to Help American Express Correct this 5-7 Day Wait Time they have Chosen to make us Endure and Declare it Unconstitutional!
If FDIC is going to Allow Amex Bluebird to Act like and Be Insured Like a Banking institution, then they Must Be required to Uphold the Same Standards as Banks, i.e. Release the Funds Back immediately such as Banks are Required to Do, when the Card is Used as Debit for the Transaction. Come on Bluebird, you guys should be ashamed of yourselves.
Love your Card, Just Hate this one Little Policy that Most Likely Makes Amex a Fortune and Causes the Least of us Card Holders Heartache and in my Case, this Week, Took Food of My Kids Table.… show more
Hope the FTC and or Financial Bureau of Consumer Affairs Steps in to Help American Express Correct this 5-7 Day Wait Time they have Chosen to make us Endure and Declare it Unconstitutional!
If FDIC is going to Allow Amex Bluebird to Act like and Be Insured Like a Banking institution, then they Must Be required to Uphold the Same Standards as Banks, i.e. Release the Funds Back immediately such as Banks are Required to Do, when the Card is Used as Debit for the Transaction. Come on Bluebird, you guys should be ashamed of yourselves.
Love your Card, Just Hate this one Little Policy that Most Likely Makes Amex a Fortune and Causes the Least of us Card Holders Heartache and in my Case, this Week, Took Food of My Kids Table.… show more
Jun 16, 2019
I have used Bluebird for my two boys for years. Today, I stopped using it after a bad experience. I would not recommend it. I got a new debit card from my bank, which happens when they expire. Since it has a new 3 digit code on the back, I had to remove the old linked debit card and link the new one. The system would not let me do this. I called and spoke to 3 people. The first two kept telling me that was just "how it was. The system chose to not let me link any more debit cards." They could not explain why. They kept saying "nobody did it, the system did it. Nobody knows why, it can't be undone." I finally got through to a supervisors supervisor and was told that it was a fraud prevention measure. "I have been using the account for years, and now I can't link a debit card to it anymore? " I was told, "yes, that is for your own convenience and protection." So, how do I get money on the account? "You go to Walmart and add it."
Standing in line at Walmart to add money to the card? I don't think so. Can it be reversed off my account? "No, it will be forever. You can never link a debit card to this account again." Why? Because the system said so."
Well, I told them what their system can do. I would transfer the money out of this account and close my Blue bird for good. But, guess what? I won't let me get my money, because I do not have a linked bank account! AND, what's more, I can't link a bank account, because the system said I can't.
I only have about $70 dollars in there, but I have a feeling it is going to be a fight to get that money back.
I REALLY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CARD. Go to your local bank and get cards that can be transferred between account instead.… show more
Standing in line at Walmart to add money to the card? I don't think so. Can it be reversed off my account? "No, it will be forever. You can never link a debit card to this account again." Why? Because the system said so."
Well, I told them what their system can do. I would transfer the money out of this account and close my Blue bird for good. But, guess what? I won't let me get my money, because I do not have a linked bank account! AND, what's more, I can't link a bank account, because the system said I can't.
I only have about $70 dollars in there, but I have a feeling it is going to be a fight to get that money back.
I REALLY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CARD. Go to your local bank and get cards that can be transferred between account instead.… show more
May 01, 2019
Charged gas at Shell, $25.25. AE-Bluebird allows merchants to charge additional amounts for 7 days. I was charged, for no services, an additional $125.00. AE-BB WOULD NOT reverse this cash charge. AE-BB stole $125.00 CASH from me for 7 days. This is a cash card not a credit card! STAY WAY from this card. If you have one cut it up! Walmart has a better cash-debt-card. AE's policy violates FTC policies. This is why so many places don't accept AE!… show more
05/30/20
In all fairness, that is Shell that is being a big jerk, not Blue Bird. Shell will put a huge hold on any card and if it is a debit or prepaid card, they will put the hold on it and not release the funds until the transaction goes through. Holiday does not do this. It holds a semi big amount but then puts it directly back only keeping what you spent, within minutes or less. So it isn't Blue Bird, it's Shell. I got so angry at Speedway for the same thing. I put in $5 of gas and it took over $80!
Then another time I thought I would outsmart the gas pumps and only put in $20 from my set aside to my main account. Speedway put a hold on all of it then refused to give me gas for insufficient funds before I even pumped any! Prepaying inside is the only way to avoid this crap.… show more
Then another time I thought I would outsmart the gas pumps and only put in $20 from my set aside to my main account. Speedway put a hold on all of it then refused to give me gas for insufficient funds before I even pumped any! Prepaying inside is the only way to avoid this crap.… show more
Apr 19, 2019
I got this card especially to transfer money to my son who lives out of state and is sick, so I've been helping him out. Last night i transferred 200.00 onto my card and was going to transfer 200.00 more today. First i think the limit of 200.00 is pretty low and should be higher. What if there was an emergency and someone needed money now. Well today I went to transfer 200.00 more and kept getting an error. So i got on my computer to do and then it said I had already transferred money today. UMMM, NO I DIDNT. So I called to find out what the problem was. Then i find out that it is 200.00 a day in their time zone now my own which is complete bull. I transferred at 9pm my time but of course it was midnight there. The only message you get when you go to transfer is the limit is 200.00 a day. Maybe they should put in there that they go by eastern time. So mad because my son really needed this money by today.… show more
Feb 13, 2019
Card has some good qualities but you can't pay for had at the pump other wise it takes almost all your money off if you use it more than once in a month and takes almost a whole day to return to you. Customer service sucks overall have a had a few nice people to deal with. If someone returns money back to you they will post it and then place on hold so you are thinking your money had returned and it hasn't. Most places you go to you will have to run as credit for some reason. I like Chime better I only still have this card is because I don't want to try and change all of my bills that I pay with it… show more
Feb 06, 2019
I have had a Bluebird account since 2012 (it is now 2019).
I have never been charged a fee aside from out-of-network ATM fees.
My checks were all free until 2016ish, but I use them so rarely that I still have all of the free ones.
However...
Everything is done online or at Walmart, and if you hate Walmart as much as I do you'll feel me here.
If you want to deposit cash you have to go Walmart. If you want to schedule a cash pickup, you have to go to Walmart.
I am not a fan of limitations. There are many times I am frustrated because I can't simply walk into my bank, fill out a withdrawal slip, and walk out with $2,000 cash.
You just cant. You have to do it through Walmart, or find an ATM and still be limited to $750 a day.
There still are no chips on these cards.
If you have any refunds/returns expected, also expect to have your patience tested for 7-10 business days. Holds are ridiculous, and transfers are just as bad.
There are useful, quick bits of information we are used to (or expect to have access to) about our accounts and I don't think the Bluebird app delivers. You're very limited in what you can do on it, and what information you can see.
I really hate having to call customer service. It's not an awful experience, but it is always foreign based, and helpful MOST of the time. You'll get real customer service at a real bank.
You will run into many situations where a vendor doesn't even accept American Express cards and you're just SOL unless you have PayPal or the time to wait 7 business days for a bill to be paid from your bank account.
My income has changed since 2012, and I deal with bigger transactions now, larger deposits, and larger amounts that need to be moved from account to account or be pulled in cash and this card just doesn't work for any of that anymore.
I'm looking into a local, physical bank but as you can expect that is never easily done when everything has been with another for the past 8 years.
This is a good card if you have a small income, because you will probably never have fees.
If you have a larger income it is just not worth it.
I don't even think they're FDIC, but don't quote me on that.… read more… show more
I have never been charged a fee aside from out-of-network ATM fees.
My checks were all free until 2016ish, but I use them so rarely that I still have all of the free ones.
However...
Everything is done online or at Walmart, and if you hate Walmart as much as I do you'll feel me here.
If you want to deposit cash you have to go Walmart. If you want to schedule a cash pickup, you have to go to Walmart.
I am not a fan of limitations. There are many times I am frustrated because I can't simply walk into my bank, fill out a withdrawal slip, and walk out with $2,000 cash.
You just cant. You have to do it through Walmart, or find an ATM and still be limited to $750 a day.
There still are no chips on these cards.
If you have any refunds/returns expected, also expect to have your patience tested for 7-10 business days. Holds are ridiculous, and transfers are just as bad.
There are useful, quick bits of information we are used to (or expect to have access to) about our accounts and I don't think the Bluebird app delivers. You're very limited in what you can do on it, and what information you can see.
I really hate having to call customer service. It's not an awful experience, but it is always foreign based, and helpful MOST of the time. You'll get real customer service at a real bank.
You will run into many situations where a vendor doesn't even accept American Express cards and you're just SOL unless you have PayPal or the time to wait 7 business days for a bill to be paid from your bank account.
My income has changed since 2012, and I deal with bigger transactions now, larger deposits, and larger amounts that need to be moved from account to account or be pulled in cash and this card just doesn't work for any of that anymore.
I'm looking into a local, physical bank but as you can expect that is never easily done when everything has been with another for the past 8 years.
This is a good card if you have a small income, because you will probably never have fees.
If you have a larger income it is just not worth it.
I don't even think they're FDIC, but don't quote me on that.… read more… show more
Dec 27, 2018
this is a horrible company. the customer service people lie. I have told at least 30 people who are gonna close their account with them. shady companies like this one. Should not be allowed to be in business.
Dec 08, 2018
When charges are declined, the hold on the funds are ridiculous long which 7-10 days. I called and complained about this. Initially they said it is the company put the hold while thinking you won't call and follow up with the company. I did both times and they said the charges were declined and have no control of bank holds, Bluebird do. Bluebird is no help but to say sorry repeatedly and cannot release the funds until waiting time is over! I removed both direct deposits from this card and doing traditional banking from now on. It is NOT that great and stress-free as it seem.… show more
Oct 23, 2018
Rating -20! Don't use it! I had a merchant refund my money to paypal they instantly sent it back to Bluebird. Bluebird says it may take 10 days to get my money back. WTF! If you can instantly pay there is no legitimate reason why you can't be instantly given your money back! No need to hold it!!!!
Oct 18, 2018
If you make a return they will put holds on your funds for 10 days, customer service cant override or help you at all. Getting store credit is your best option if you cnt wait.https://wallethub.com/d/bluebird-prepaid-card-732c/
Oct 17, 2018
They sent my money to some property abandament place since I didn't use my card and they can't even tell me how to contact them to get my money back I will never use this crooked company again due to the manager even saying I don't have that information on how to contact them
Sep 17, 2018
Just don't ever need customer service for anything. Everyone is in India and there is no help. System issues every other month and no answers as to why. I want to love my card I really do, but the terrible customer service, lack of caring, and constant system issues make it so hard.
Jul 30, 2018
I actually love the card. Lot of comments are over 2, 3 years old , and issues experienced in the past , has not been my issue today. I never had a hold put on my funds, as I transfer my money from one card to this one. Money is there asap, or I either load for free at Walmart. NO fees are involved with this card that is a win win all together. True enough everyone doesn't accept Amex/Express, but more than enough merchants do to make using the card still pleasant. I use it for my trips. I have reserved hotels, made purchases with no problems. I got the card to not have to worry about theft, and unauthorized charges to my bank debit card which is of course attached to my bank account. Now that was a headache! If used properly this is a excellent card the free send money feature to another card holder which my son is also a cardholder, has been wonderful. I have had the card now 2 years and none of the issues stated here, have I had. I tried other prepaid debit cards that come with a bunch a hidden fees and fees to load. This card is great Lyft even accepts them now....The card has truly served it's purpose for me. Another thing consumers need to start doing is reading the pkg and fine print. Don't be so quick to load money on a card that may not be suited for you. read more… show more
Jul 22, 2018
I put all my spare money into one of these cards. Went to pay my phone bill. It stated it was"ON HOLD". I thought it was the phone. Tried again. The second charge was "ON HOLD".
I borroed money and used a different card. IT WORKED. I call Bluebird to get the HOLD charges released. They say I have to wait up to a week. I call the phone company and they don't reflect any holds. It's all on Bluebird.
I can't wait a week, I need the funds now. Nothing they can do about it. They rejected it. They are holding my money. I ask to speak to a manager. I am put on hold for 10 minutes then they hang up on me. I wait a day and call them back. Exact same thing. I hate this company.… show more
I borroed money and used a different card. IT WORKED. I call Bluebird to get the HOLD charges released. They say I have to wait up to a week. I call the phone company and they don't reflect any holds. It's all on Bluebird.
I can't wait a week, I need the funds now. Nothing they can do about it. They rejected it. They are holding my money. I ask to speak to a manager. I am put on hold for 10 minutes then they hang up on me. I wait a day and call them back. Exact same thing. I hate this company.… show more
Jul 04, 2018
Bluebird card is great, until someone gets ahold of your card information and takes money from you. Unlike a bank that immediately returns your funds, they make you wait 48 hours to see if the funds post, then if they do post you have to wait another 7-10 business days while they do a dispute investigation to get your funds back!!! Horrible! Talk about a slap in the face when your hard earned money has been stolen, then you have to wait over 2 weeks to get your money back!!! Beware!!!… show more
Jul 04, 2018
was told through my email that it would take up to 7 days to get my money seven days have came and gone I called and waited on the phone for 45 minutes at a time to be told that there was a glitch with their computers which I don\'t understand why I should have to wait for my money I am now on hold again because I was transferred to a supervisor the last representative that I spoke with lad and told me it was not Wednesday when it has been Wednesday 12 hours longer at her location in Manila then it has been at my location in America then she said she didn\'t lie lucky for me I have a witness I would say do not put any money on this card at all they find a way to gain interest off your money and they bullshit you while they\'re doing it Bluebird is a scam get a regular bank or keep your money under your mattress at least you\'ll have it and be able to track it that way I do not believe that something call damn erican should be based in another country who doesn\'t understand our values in the concept of truth and how seriously we take it here in America they are thieves and scammers at Amex… show more
Jun 09, 2018
Beware if you return merchandise or have a refund coming to you, it takes 7 to 10 days before you’ll get your money back. These people don’t care if that is your last dime. I have almost $100 pending forever. They blamed it on the store I got a refund from, but turns out all along it was Bluebird. Their customer service leaves much to be desired. Don’t use this card unless you can afford to b without your refund.… show more
May 21, 2018
I've never had a problem with this card and I've had it for over a year. Does the basics, nothing fancy but not a bad choice if you can't get a regular account. They have the option to set up sub accounts with their own cards plus a savings account. Customer service is pretty good and the app/website is easy to use especially to move money between the sub accounts. Only major down side is the checks are expensive and they have a pre-approval process which isn't a big deal but giving someone a check from them kind of gives away the fact that your using a prepaid card but it does assure them that it's good.… show more
03/31/19
You stated that, this card is a good option for those people that don't qualify for "real cards".
Well, that's kind of a bad statement to make, if you think only poor people and people with bad credit are the only people that get the Bluebird Card, then your statement and your believe is wrong!!
Well, I have plenty of money, I have several "real credit cards" and 2 bank debit cards. I think the comment made by you, was uncalled for, this card is not just for people that can't get a real credit card, many people get prepaid cards for lots of different reasons.
I got this card because I could set up sub-accounts for my kids and transfer money onto their card if they need money in a hurry or for getting work done on a car or something like that, they need the money right away. And I use it for vacation sometimes so that it is not linked to my bank account or so if it gets lost or stolen they can't just run up charges on it.
That all fine and dandy, but to take advantage on people and put a 10 day hold on money that has been already refunded to Bluebird, I think that is a bad why to treat your customers.
This just happened to me this week, I bought some auto parts on March 26, 2019, I did not use the parts, so I returned them unopened for a full refund from the parts store. They did the refund on March 26, 2019, Bluebird posted the payment on March 28th, posted the refund on March 28th, then placed a 10 day hold on the refund.
I called the parts store and the corporate headquarters of the parts store, I was advised that the parts store sent the refund to Bluebird on March 28, 2019 and that American Express National Bank 4315 South 2700 West Salt Lake City, UT 84184, already has the money on March 28, 2019 and the parts store has a confirmation from Bluebird and American Express that the refund was completed and successful on March 28, 2019.
So as I understand it, Bluebird and American Express have my money in their bank account that they confirm they received on March 28, 2019, but yet there is a 10 day hold on the money.
I called customer service and they said that it is standard policy to hold the money for 10 days. The supervisor I spoke to confirmed that the refund was completed on March 28, 2019, but they had to follow the policy and hold the money for 10 days.. This is nuts.. Why do they need to hold the money, (in case the parts store changes it's mind????), If Bluebird already has the money then why are they holding it???
I grow up in the days when credit cards, debit cards and banks worked for the card holders and account holders, NOT the merchant!! I can only assume that American Express National Bank is holding on to the money in order to get interest off my money that is in their bank account, making a buck off my money.. Mean while I could have this money in my bank account earning interest. Well My Mistake for using Bluebird..
Bluebird Customer Service advice to me is that I should not be using a prepaid card.. Well great Idea Bluebird, I won't use you any more.. Thank You for the advice..
All of my other Credit Cards and Bank Card, process the refund and make the money available with a couple days, once the merchant process the refund.
So, why are there different standards for prepaid cards then there are for other credit and debit cards. Does Bluebird think that only poor people and people with bad credit use these prepaid cards, so they can hold the money for 10 days, because the poor people are used to being without the money any ways.. Well I am not poor and I have lots of other credit cards, and I can afford to wait the 10 day, but I should not have to wait 10 days for money that they have already received back from the merchant.
This was real cash money that I loaded onto this Bluebird Card, Not a line of credit. So, if Bluebird had my real cash to do this transaction and had real cash back from the merchant, then why the 10 day hold. This is not a line of credit that Bluebird is fronting me the money and they want to make sure they get THEIR money back before they refund me, IT is MY MONEY that I gave them on my behalf to pay someone for me with the money I gave them, it’s my money, not theirs, why do they have the right to hold money that is not theirs to hold on to.
It’s about making money off my hard earned money, Bluebird has so many free options and no fee options, that it needs to make money off my money by earning interest on my cash for 10 days in their bank.. Imagine all the money in one day that Bluebird places a hold on in their bank, how much interest are they making off all that money that is placed on hold each and ever day.. Glad to know I can contribute to American Express’s multi-billion dollar enterprise. YOUR welcome Bluebird and American Express for helping you out by providing you with more cash in your bank to earn interest on, I hope it helps make all your financial goals a success at the expense of others.… show more
Well, that's kind of a bad statement to make, if you think only poor people and people with bad credit are the only people that get the Bluebird Card, then your statement and your believe is wrong!!
Well, I have plenty of money, I have several "real credit cards" and 2 bank debit cards. I think the comment made by you, was uncalled for, this card is not just for people that can't get a real credit card, many people get prepaid cards for lots of different reasons.
I got this card because I could set up sub-accounts for my kids and transfer money onto their card if they need money in a hurry or for getting work done on a car or something like that, they need the money right away. And I use it for vacation sometimes so that it is not linked to my bank account or so if it gets lost or stolen they can't just run up charges on it.
That all fine and dandy, but to take advantage on people and put a 10 day hold on money that has been already refunded to Bluebird, I think that is a bad why to treat your customers.
This just happened to me this week, I bought some auto parts on March 26, 2019, I did not use the parts, so I returned them unopened for a full refund from the parts store. They did the refund on March 26, 2019, Bluebird posted the payment on March 28th, posted the refund on March 28th, then placed a 10 day hold on the refund.
I called the parts store and the corporate headquarters of the parts store, I was advised that the parts store sent the refund to Bluebird on March 28, 2019 and that American Express National Bank 4315 South 2700 West Salt Lake City, UT 84184, already has the money on March 28, 2019 and the parts store has a confirmation from Bluebird and American Express that the refund was completed and successful on March 28, 2019.
So as I understand it, Bluebird and American Express have my money in their bank account that they confirm they received on March 28, 2019, but yet there is a 10 day hold on the money.
I called customer service and they said that it is standard policy to hold the money for 10 days. The supervisor I spoke to confirmed that the refund was completed on March 28, 2019, but they had to follow the policy and hold the money for 10 days.. This is nuts.. Why do they need to hold the money, (in case the parts store changes it's mind????), If Bluebird already has the money then why are they holding it???
I grow up in the days when credit cards, debit cards and banks worked for the card holders and account holders, NOT the merchant!! I can only assume that American Express National Bank is holding on to the money in order to get interest off my money that is in their bank account, making a buck off my money.. Mean while I could have this money in my bank account earning interest. Well My Mistake for using Bluebird..
Bluebird Customer Service advice to me is that I should not be using a prepaid card.. Well great Idea Bluebird, I won't use you any more.. Thank You for the advice..
All of my other Credit Cards and Bank Card, process the refund and make the money available with a couple days, once the merchant process the refund.
So, why are there different standards for prepaid cards then there are for other credit and debit cards. Does Bluebird think that only poor people and people with bad credit use these prepaid cards, so they can hold the money for 10 days, because the poor people are used to being without the money any ways.. Well I am not poor and I have lots of other credit cards, and I can afford to wait the 10 day, but I should not have to wait 10 days for money that they have already received back from the merchant.
This was real cash money that I loaded onto this Bluebird Card, Not a line of credit. So, if Bluebird had my real cash to do this transaction and had real cash back from the merchant, then why the 10 day hold. This is not a line of credit that Bluebird is fronting me the money and they want to make sure they get THEIR money back before they refund me, IT is MY MONEY that I gave them on my behalf to pay someone for me with the money I gave them, it’s my money, not theirs, why do they have the right to hold money that is not theirs to hold on to.
It’s about making money off my hard earned money, Bluebird has so many free options and no fee options, that it needs to make money off my money by earning interest on my cash for 10 days in their bank.. Imagine all the money in one day that Bluebird places a hold on in their bank, how much interest are they making off all that money that is placed on hold each and ever day.. Glad to know I can contribute to American Express’s multi-billion dollar enterprise. YOUR welcome Bluebird and American Express for helping you out by providing you with more cash in your bank to earn interest on, I hope it helps make all your financial goals a success at the expense of others.… show more
Mar 27, 2018
I only have this card because I had to file chapter 7 Bankruptcy in 2017, since I can't even get a credit union to let me open an account. Anyways, this card is great and it's nice to get direct deposit 2 days early, but it never deposits at the same time or even close to it. My company submits payroll on Sunday and normally employees get paid Thursday, but I get my check on Tuesday usually anywhere from 12pm-1230pm or anywhere from 4-5pm or anywhere from 11pm-12am. I called them and asked why the time is always different and they said that if I don't receive a deposit by 7pm I wont get it, which is a lie because I got my check a few times after 11pm. Somehow every so often my account goes negative a few dollars which I don't understand because I thought these things were supposed to stop you from going over. I don't get charged for this but it's kind of annoying and I know I can budget myself but still lol . A lot of places don't even accept American Express, I was at taco bell and had to leave the drive-thru and find an ATM because they don't accept this card. Walmart said they are not allowed to unload these cards only load, so it's kind of dumb if i need to get money off of it without using an ATM. I had to call customer service a few times and they were helpful. I had almost $800 on it and used my card at a gas pump and received a $50 hold which I'm guessing is the gas stations thing, but I thought these cards were supposed to withdraw the funds right away towards a purchase so the hold is kind of stupid. I've never truly had a pending purchase, it always shows up right away and shows the funds that I spent. Overall if you have trouble getting a bank account, this card is the way to go. There are a lot of free ATMS to use these at but make sure you check prior if the place you're at accepts American Express. A lot of stores told me that AE is expensive to use, so that's why they don't accept them. I would recommend getting the card through the Bluebird website so you don't have to buy the kit in store. Mine shipped fast. Another issue I have had is when I received my taxes, I had well over $2000 and went to purchase a Walmart money order to pay rent and I was denied, sometimes it will ask you for the security code which can be either the 4 digit one on the front OR the 3 digit one on the back. I don't care what anyone says, but I have had to use both codes at different times.… show more
Jan 24, 2018
STAY AWAY will put holds on your money and not release it even if it is an issue with their system. Their customer service is horrible. Even their supposed "Supervisors" are of not help. Transfer never happened and they refuse to make my money accessible again. Excuse "technical issue" for 10 days. Only get involved with this company if you want one headache after another.
Jan 23, 2018
Horrible customer service AND they’ve had my money “processing” In the account since the 13th, it was suppose to take 3-5 business days to transfer into my bank account and it’s still not there. I’ve been on the phone with customer service with whom can barely speak English and they have BS answers for me. Some sort of tech errors. After 5 different representatives and 10 days I’m forced to call the BBB and my attorney!! They are literally holding my money from me!! They wouldn’t let me give them no stars to submitt so I had to give them 1!!… show more
01/24/18
You are nit the only one they also have my transfer in pending since the 13th and will not release my funds. They need to be reported and a class action suit needs to be filed against them,
Dec 15, 2017
You've ever had any other card with American Express don't think for a second that the policies or customer service is even remotely similar on this card. Transaction cannot be disputed until it's been fully completed. After they finally allow you to file dispute you must wait 6 business days before they will credit the funds back to your card. If you cancel a transaction either just a minute or two after the initial transaction American Express has already taking the money from your account. Despite having the supporting documentation showing the cancellation MedExpress will hold will keep your money 8 more business days until the pending transaction and their system lapses as a result of merchant inaction. There's no excuse for this except laziness and greed on the part a company take advantage of the customers that can least afford it. Shame on you… show more
Dec 04, 2017
I've had my account for over a year just started as something small to put money up and save. Well now I use it a lot more and I had one time that I added over 300.00 to it, went to 2 stores and spend 100 at one and 60 at the other. It told me I had 28.00 left over. Well that didn't add up. So I started to add everything up to see where the confusion took place from that day. And I got more confused. So I started all the way to the day I opened my account. And realized the more I used my card the more money disappeared. First it was 7.00 one month that was miscalculated. And by the time I finished i'm missing over 300.00 because apparently there computer can't count when adding up your transactions. I called customer service and some lady that you can understand to much went back to my last deposit which was like 5 days and I didn't use my card a lot so of course those three transactions she went over added up. I'm talking about over a few months money's coming up missing.… show more
Oct 01, 2017
The bluebird prepaid cards sucks. I got an overdraft. When I purchased something there was a transaction. It should've been canceled automatically!
Bluebird doesn't do a good job protecting their customers. Debit cards are better.
Bluebird doesn't do a good job protecting their customers. Debit cards are better.
Jul 27, 2017
Bluebird is okay, but the issue I have is not many establishments accept American Express. I went to a gas station and swiped at the pump and received an error. So I went inside and they told me that they do not accept the card and I was on "E". It's a good thing that I was able to use the "ATM" machine and pay the Fees to get cash.
Secondly, I went to an establishment and when they saw my card with the American Express Logo they told me they do not accept. I stood in line 10 minutes to get rejected.
Also, I do not like the fact that I have a PIN but I cannot get cash back at a grocery store when I buy groceries.
Lastly, finding an ATM that offers withdrawals is a hassle. Walmart is the SLOGAN behind Bluebird and where I live the machine is ALWAYS out of order. It has NEVER worked for me. Therefore, I have to drive 20-25 minutes to use an "ATM" that accepts Bluebird - without the fee.
Moving forward, I have received good customer service despite the many times I have called and the representatives could not find my account using my email address, SSN, or other pertinent information. However, when I ask for a supervisor they are able to find my account. With this being said, I did get one representative that was VERY reluctant to allow me to speak with a representative.
I like Bluebird because I get my payroll check Wednesday night vs Friday. Is it work the issue(s) I am having? Yes it is until I get control of my finances and DOCUMENT when I use ANY card. When you make a purchase, write it down.… show more
Secondly, I went to an establishment and when they saw my card with the American Express Logo they told me they do not accept. I stood in line 10 minutes to get rejected.
Also, I do not like the fact that I have a PIN but I cannot get cash back at a grocery store when I buy groceries.
Lastly, finding an ATM that offers withdrawals is a hassle. Walmart is the SLOGAN behind Bluebird and where I live the machine is ALWAYS out of order. It has NEVER worked for me. Therefore, I have to drive 20-25 minutes to use an "ATM" that accepts Bluebird - without the fee.
Moving forward, I have received good customer service despite the many times I have called and the representatives could not find my account using my email address, SSN, or other pertinent information. However, when I ask for a supervisor they are able to find my account. With this being said, I did get one representative that was VERY reluctant to allow me to speak with a representative.
I like Bluebird because I get my payroll check Wednesday night vs Friday. Is it work the issue(s) I am having? Yes it is until I get control of my finances and DOCUMENT when I use ANY card. When you make a purchase, write it down.… show more
Jul 19, 2017
This card services is horrible, I had to dispute several charges on my card that were no of my doing. They held the funds for over a month after telling me that if no decision was made in ten days I would get my refund returned to my card. It's been over a month and they keep feeding me excuses on why it keeps getting pushed back. The customer service is awful and they are clueless and can't give you an answer on what's going on. I hate this service and to me hate is a strong word but it's appropriate for the amount if crap they put me through.
Do do not uses this card there far better card to use besides this one.… show more
Do do not uses this card there far better card to use besides this one.… show more
Jul 08, 2017
Bad experience! Called in about fees i was being charged that i was unaware of! Spoke with a manger and explained to him before i activated my card i asked would there be any fees and i was told no!!! Now i call in speak with manager Arr who could not help at all! He basically told me there was nothing he can do and i call back in 4 hours but there would still be nothing done for the fees im being charged. ..What kind of customer service is that !! DO NOT USE AMEX BLUEBIRD ....… show more
Jul 03, 2017
My information was stolen and used to change my Bluebird account. Bluebird allowed the changes, THEN emailed me to ask if it was ok. I lost over $1000. They are investigating and won't return my money for 7-10 business days. Most banks return it immediately. Do not do business with Bluebird!!
10/14/19
Did u actually get ur $ back?
Someone just hacked my account and transferred $2,455.00 to a blue bird account, which I DID NOT DO, owned by a Raul Gutierrez, whom I DO NOT Know,, and I'm worried that the wont return my money to me.
I know it may take a month or more, but will they eventually return my money?
Someone just hacked my account and transferred $2,455.00 to a blue bird account, which I DID NOT DO, owned by a Raul Gutierrez, whom I DO NOT Know,, and I'm worried that the wont return my money to me.
I know it may take a month or more, but will they eventually return my money?
Jun 25, 2017
I really love mine. I have had no problems. The only problems I know of, is that AMEX isn't accepted everywhere like a visa or mastercard is. It helps me to protect my real money in my bank when making gas purchases, I use at most any place that accepts American Express and love them.
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Last updated on: December 4th, 2020 at 16:31
WalletHub is an independent comparison service.
We work hard to show you up-to-date product terms, however, this information does not originate from us and thus, we do not guarantee its accuracy. When you click "Apply Now" you will be directed to the offering institution's website. In addition, keep in mind that actual rates and other information may vary for a number of reasons including the applicant's' creditworthiness and differences between an individual's situation and the criteria/assumptions used to generate the information displayed. Before submitting an application, always verify all terms and conditions with the offering institution. Please let us know if you notice any differences.
Ad Disclosure: Offers originating from paying advertisers are noted as “Sponsored” at the top of this page. Advertising may impact how and where offers appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). At WalletHub we try to present a wide array of offers, but our offers do not represent all financial services companies or products.
Irrespective of whether an offering institution is a paid advertiser, the presence of offer information on WalletHub does not constitute a referral or endorsement of the institution by us or vice versa. Furthermore, offers have not been reviewed or approved by the offering institution. Information is displayed first and foremost to help consumers make better decisions.
Editorial Disclaimer: Editorial and user-generated content on this page is not provided, commissioned, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer. In addition, it is not issuer’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
Offer last updated: Dec 4th, 2020 at 16:31 ET