The Walmart MoneyCard is a reloadable prepaid debit card that offers a flexible way to manage money without the need for a traditional bank account. It’s designed for those who want to avoid overdraft fees, don’t qualify for a standard checking account, or prefer the convenience of a prepaid card.
Unlike most debit cards, the Walmart MoneyCard doesn’t require a credit check, making it accessible to a wider range of users. Issued by Green Dot Bank, it comes with perks like cash back on Walmart purchases, free cash reloads at Walmart stores, and the option to receive direct deposits up to two days early.
For frequent Walmart shoppers or those looking for a prepaid card with useful features, the Walmart MoneyCard can be a practical choice. However, its fees and limitations may not make it the best option for everyone. Here’s a closer look at what it offers and how it compares to other prepaid cards.
Getting Started with Walmart MoneyCard
The process to get started with a Walmart MoneyCard is straightforward. Customers can apply for the card online or buy a starter kit from any Walmart stores.
Once the card is registered and activated, you can load money onto it through various means. These include direct deposit, using Walmart Rapid Reload, or transferring money from a different bank account.
You can use the Walmart MoneyCard immediately for in-store and online purchases at any location that accepts Visa or Mastercard debit cards.
Walmart MoneyCard Benefits and Features
The Walmart MoneyCard includes several features that make it a practical choice for those looking for a reloadable prepaid debit card. From earning cash back to convenient money management, these features provide added value for cardholders.
Cash Back Rewards
One of the key benefits of the Walmart MoneyCard is its cash back rewards program. Cardholders can earn 3% cash back on Walmart.com purchases, 2% at Walmart fuel stations, and 1% on in-store purchases at Walmart.
For those who shop frequently at Walmart, these rewards can help offset everyday expenses. However, there is an annual cap of $75 in cash back earnings, so it may not be as beneficial for high spenders compared to traditional rewards credit cards.
Free Cash Reloads
Another useful feature is the ability to reload funds for free at Walmart store locations. This is especially convenient for regular Walmart shoppers who want an easy way to add money to their card while running errands.
Other reload options include direct deposit, mobile check deposit through the Walmart MoneyCard app, and bank transfers from external accounts. These options provide flexibility based on individual banking preferences.
Walmart MoneyCard App
Managing finances is easier with the Walmart MoneyCard app, which offers a range of banking features. The app allows users to deposit checks, pay bills, transfer money, monitor account balances, and set up transaction alerts.
Having access to these tools in one place makes it more convenient to track spending, manage deposits, and stay on top of financial goals.
Early Direct Deposit
For those who rely on scheduled payments, the ASAP Direct Deposit feature can be a helpful option. This allows cardholders to receive paychecks or government benefits up to two days early, depending on the deposit schedule set by the employer or benefits provider.
Receiving funds ahead of time can be useful for budgeting, paying bills, or covering unexpected expenses without waiting for a traditional payday.
How the Walmart MoneyCard Helps You Save
The Walmart MoneyCard provides several benefits that make it a practical choice for everyday spending and savings. These features help users manage their money efficiently while avoiding common banking fees.
No Overdraft Fees
One of the biggest advantages of this prepaid card is that it eliminates overdraft fees. Since you can only spend the money you load onto the card, there’s no risk of overdrawing your account or dealing with costly fees. This makes it a good option for those who want to avoid unexpected charges or prefer a more controlled approach to spending.
MoneyCard Vault
For those looking to save, the Walmart MoneyCard includes a MoneyCard Vault feature. This allows users to set money aside while earning a 2% annual interest rate (APY) on balances up to $1,000. It serves as a built-in savings tool, making it easier to put money away for future needs.
Cash Prizes
In addition to earning interest, the MoneyCard Vault provides an opportunity to win cash prizes. Each dollar saved in the vault counts as an entry into a monthly drawing where 999 winners receive cash prizes of up to $1,000. This adds an extra incentive to build savings while keeping funds accessible when needed.
Family Accounts
Managing family finances is easier with the Walmart MoneyCard’s ability to add up to four additional cards for family members aged 13 and older. This can be a useful tool for parents who want to teach their teens about responsible money management, or for households that prefer to keep spending organized under one account.
Walmart MoneyCard Fees
The Walmart MoneyCard has a monthly fee of $5.94, which applies unless you load at least $1,000 onto the card during the previous monthly period. This fee structure makes it more cost-effective for those who plan to add funds regularly.
Additional fees may apply for certain transactions. While Walmart Rapid Reload is free at Walmart locations, using this service elsewhere may come with a charge. ATM withdrawals at in-network locations are free, but out-of-network ATM withdrawals cost $2.50, plus any third-party fees set by the ATM provider.
Being aware of these costs can help you decide whether the Walmart MoneyCard is a good fit for your spending habits.
Potential Drawbacks and Limitations
While the Walmart MoneyCard offers several benefits, it does have potential drawbacks that must be considered. One such drawback is the monthly fee of $5.94. This fee can be waived if you load at least $1,000 onto the card in the previous monthly period, but for users who don’t frequently load large amounts onto their card, this cost might be a deterrent.
Although there’s the benefit of earning rewards, there are limitations. The cash back rewards are capped at $75 each year. Depending on your spending habits, this may be less generous than some rewards credit cards offered by traditional financial institutions or credit card companies.
It’s also important to note that while the card offers the ability to withdraw cash, out-of-network ATM withdrawals come with a $2.50 fee. Additional third-party fees might be charged at out-of-network ATMs and are not controlled by Green Dot Bank.
Security Features
Walmart MoneyCard provides several measures to ensure the safety of your funds. Your funds are held with Green Dot Bank, a member of FDIC, meaning your MoneyCard deposits are insured up to the standard deposit insurance limit.
The card also includes an EMV chip that provides enhanced security and is globally accepted. Additionally, customers can set up account alerts through the app to receive instant notification of any transactions or suspicious activity.
Another valuable security feature is the ability to instantly lock your card if it’s ever lost or stolen, directly from the MoneyCard App or website. This can prevent unauthorized use and provide peace of mind.
Customer Service and Support
Walmart offers various customer service channels for MoneyCard users. These include a phone number to call for live support and an online Help Center with answers to common questions. You can also receive assistance via the Walmart app or website, where you can report lost or stolen cards, check your balance, view transactions, and find the nearest Walmart store or ATM.
Remember that it’s always beneficial to research user reviews and feedback to get a sense of the overall customer service experience. While Walmart offers several avenues for support, it’s essential to ensure that the support meets your expectations and needs.
How the Walmart MoneyCard Compares to Other Prepaid Cards
When choosing a prepaid debit card, it’s important to compare features, fees, and rewards to find the best option for your needs. The Walmart MoneyCard stands out with its cash back rewards and free cash reloads at Walmart stores, but other prepaid cards may offer different advantages. Here’s how it compares to two popular alternatives:
Walmart MoneyCard vs. Netspend Prepaid Card
- Cash Back Rewards: The Walmart MoneyCard offers up to 3% cash back on Walmart.com purchases, 2% at Walmart fuel stations, and 1% in Walmart stores, with a $75 annual cap. Netspend does not provide cash back rewards.
- Monthly Fees: The Walmart MoneyCard charges a $5.94 monthly fee, which is waived with at least $500 in direct deposits per month. Netspend offers multiple fee structures, including a pay-as-you-go plan, but transaction fees may apply.
- Savings Features: Netspend offers a high-yield savings account with up to 6% APY on balances up to $1,000, compared to Walmart MoneyCard’s 2% APY on savings up to $1,000.
- ATM Withdrawals: Both cards charge fees for out-of-network ATM withdrawals. However, Walmart MoneyCard users can withdraw cash for free at Walmart MoneyCenters and Customer Service desks.
Walmart MoneyCard vs. Green Dot Prepaid Visa Card
- Cash Reloads and Withdrawals: Walmart MoneyCard users can reload cash for free at Walmart stores and withdraw cash at Walmart locations without fees. Green Dot offers free cash deposits at participating retailers and free withdrawals at in-network ATMs.
- Cash Back Rewards: The Walmart MoneyCard provides cash back on Walmart purchases, while the Green Dot Prepaid Visa Card does not offer cash back rewards.
- Monthly Fees: Both cards have monthly fees, but Walmart MoneyCard’s fee can be waived with qualifying direct deposits. Green Dot’s fees vary based on the card type and activity.
- Savings Features: Green Dot allows users to earn a 2% APY on savings up to $10,000, a higher savings potential than Walmart MoneyCard’s $1,000 cap.
See also: Best Prepaid Debit Cards of 2025
Is the Walmart MoneyCard right for you?
The Walmart MoneyCard can be a practical option for frequent Walmart shoppers who want to earn cash back on Walmart.com, in stores, and at Walmart fuel stations. It’s also a convenient choice for those who don’t have a traditional bank account or prefer to avoid overdraft fees and credit checks.
For anyone looking for a simple way to manage spending, the reloadable nature of the card makes it a useful budgeting tool. Parents can also take advantage of the ability to add up to four family accounts, making it easier to teach teens about responsible money management.
That said, the Walmart MoneyCard may not be the best fit for everyone. If you don’t regularly shop at Walmart, the rewards may not add much value. Additionally, fees—such as the $2.50 out-of-network ATM withdrawal charge and the $5.94 monthly fee (unless waived)—could make it less appealing, especially for those who don’t plan to load at least $1,000 per month.
Final Thoughts
The Walmart MoneyCard offers a mix of convenience, rewards, and financial tools that work well for certain users. It’s ideal for those who want cash back at Walmart, an easy way to reload funds, and protection against overdraft fees. However, potential fees and limitations mean it’s not the right choice for everyone.
Before deciding, consider how often you’ll use the card, whether you can meet the conditions to waive the monthly fee, and if the cash back rewards align with your shopping habits. If the Walmart MoneyCard fits your financial needs, it can be a reliable tool for everyday spending and budgeting.
