Debit cards in the US

Debit cards in the US - Decorative cardboard illustration of person hand putting transparent dome on dollar banknotes and coins on blue background

I am a visitor on a valid visa to the US from India. I have less than 1,000 US dollars. Can I purchase a prepaid debit card for this amount to enable me to make online purchases in the US?



Best Answer

Certainly. They can often be found at grocery and drug stores with the other gift cards. You can find a list of retailers on websites like Visa's locator. You'll probably want one with a Visa or MasterCard logo to ensure it is wildly accepted.

Note that these cards have a variety of limits and fees attached, sometimes including monthly fees. You may find that a retailer is not able to add the entire amount for you at once, as they'll only accept so much cash, and you'll want to review the fees to ensure you aren't charged unnecessarily.

Visa's website has a guide that explains some of the quirks of using these cards, such as understanding how restaurants may place a larger hold on your card because of tips. To use them for online purchases, a registration step is often required, as they don't have a name and billing address attached. The card should have a phone number or website you can visit to complete this step.

As noted in comments, these stores will also have gift cards for specific merchants, such as Amazon, which may be less trouble and lower cost if you know you'll be shopping at once place a lot.




Pictures about "Debit cards in the US"

Debit cards in the US - From above closeup one US dollar bill placed on table with front side up
Debit cards in the US - American dollar banknote on table
Debit cards in the US - Person Holding Debit Card



Are there debit cards in USA?

U.S. Visa Debit Cards Take a look at the many uses a Visa Debit card has: Sign or enter a PIN for purchases: In the U.S., when making purchases, you'll be able to choose whether to use a PIN or your signature to complete transactions.

Which debit card is best in USA?

The 5 Best Prepaid Debit Cards of 2022
  • Best Overall, Best for No Monthly Fee: Bluebird by American Express.
  • Best for Cash Reloads: American Express Serve FREE Reloads.
  • Best for Walmart Shoppers: Walmart MoneyCard.
  • Best for Rewards: American Express Serve Cash Back.
  • Best for Tweens/Teens: FamZoo Prepaid Debit Card.


What are the 3 types of debit cards?

Related stories
  • Visa Debit cards: Visa debit cards are regarded as the most globally accepted debit cards for all kinds of online and electronic transactions. ...
  • MasterCard debit cards: MasterCard debit card fall within the popular types of debit cards. ...
  • RuPay Debit cards: RuPay debit card was introduced in India.


How many Americans use debit cards?

Ownership of payment cards in the U.S. 2017, by card type As of the survey period, 87 percent of Americans owned a debit card.



Is It Safe To Travel Abroad With Only A Debit Card?




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