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Netspend Blog

  • Your Spring Financial Checklist

    05/04/2021
    Scams tend to increase in times of crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been no different. Now, scammers are targeting vulnerable populations with scams related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Consumers are reporting a variety of vaccine-related scams, mostly around scheduling and paying for the vaccine.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: May 2021-June 2021

    05/04/2021
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2021. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Fraud Alert: Watch Out for COVID-19 Vaccine Scams

    04/28/2021
    Scams tend to increase in times of crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been no different. Now, scammers are targeting vulnerable populations with scams related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Consumers are reporting a variety of vaccine-related scams, mostly around scheduling and paying for the vaccine.
  • How to Get and Use a Virtual Card Number

    04/21/2021
    Not all card issuers offer virtual card numbers, but a few of them do, including Capital One, Citi, and Netspend.1To get a virtual card number for your Netspend Account, sign in to your Online Account Center to create your temporary number. You'll select which prepaid card you want to link to the virtual card number.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: April 2021-May 2021

    04/21/2021
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2021. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • 7 Easy Ways to Master Your Money in 2021

    04/08/2021
    It's always a great time to learn how to master your money and take control of your finances. With these seven simple steps, we'll show you how to save and invest more while reducing your expenses so you can work toward achieving your short- and long-term financial goals in 2021. Some of them only take a few minutes to set up.
  • Best Ways to Use Your Stimulus Check

    03/25/2021
    2020 was a challenging financial year for many people, and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act offered many Americans relief from some of the money stressors caused by the COVID pandemic. With two stimulus checks behind us, there's now a third stimulus payment on the horizon.
  • Common Audit Notices and What They Mean for your Taxes

    03/25/2021
    We've all heard horror stories about IRS tax audits, but is it really as scary as it seems? The fact is that most audits are automated and less intrusive than you realize, with most of them rectified by simply verifying some basic info. While audits shouldn't be ignored, they don't have to rule your life.
  • Your 2020 Tax Refund FAQs Answered

    03/18/2021
    Note: Netspend is not a tax advisor or CPA. The knowledge in this post is general information and should not replace the advice of a tax professional. For more information, please reach out to a tax professional in your area.
  • IRS Scams: Dirty Dozen of Tax Return Fraud for 2021

    03/11/2021
    Each year, the IRS releases a list of the biggest IRS scams to watch out for, called the Dirty Dozen. This year's IRS Dirty Dozen list contains some familiar scams, including phishing and ransomware attacks, which have also been featured on previous lists. Fraudsters have designed increasingly complex scams over the years, so it's important to keep up with the IRS's latest guidance at tax time.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: March 2021-April 2021

    03/05/2021
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Your Guide to the 1099-MISC Tax Form

    02/24/2021
    Even if you have a professional do your taxes, it's a smart move to become familiar with all of the paperwork needed to file a proper tax return. One of the forms that may be new to you this year is a 1099-MISC. A common tax form for self-employed workers, a 1099-MISC is an essential measure of your income for the year. Here's what you should know about the 1099-MISC tax form before you file your tax returns.
  • Truth or Scam: Protect Yourself from Fraud

    02/24/2021
    A new report released by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners revealed fraud cases are on the rise. In “November 2020, 79% of respondents said they saw an increase in the overall level of fraud”, which steadily rose throughout 2020. This is thought to be in part due to COVID-19 and the resulting financial hardships that people are facing.
  • 6 Ways to De-stress from Holiday Spending

    02/10/2021
    It's no secret that the holiday period can be one of the most stressful times of the year. If you are shopping for a lot of gifts, food, and holiday décor, all the holiday spending can sometimes even make it feel more stressful than fun.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: February 2021-March 2021

    02/02/2021
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: January 2021-February 2021

    01/07/2021
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Government Stimulus Payment FAQs Round 2

    12/28/2021
    Congress has finally reached an agreement on sending out a second round of government stimulus checks. The $900 billion stimulus deal was signed by President Trump on the evening of Sunday, December 27. Continue reading to learn how much you will receive, when it might arrive, and how you will get it.
  • Credit Protection Help During COVID-19

    12/17/2020
    There are several ways your credit score could become damaged during COVID-19. In recent months, many individuals have had to file for unemployment and take on additional debt. They may have even missed payments, or become a victim of identity theft or an unemployment scam. This is why focusing on credit protection is especially important right now.
  • How to Not Overspend on Holiday Gifts

    12/10/2020
    The holiday season is just around the corner. Holidays are a special opportunity to spend time with loved ones while exchanging gifts and creating lasting memories. However, for some people, the holidays are stressful. The financial burdens of traveling to see family and shopping for presents can put an unwelcome strain on their budget. These smart holiday shopping tips will show you how to buy holiday gifts without going over your budget.
  • How to Save on Travel During the Holidays

    12/09/2020
    It's not news that travel can be very costly, no matter what time of year it is. When you add up the price of gas, plane tickets, hotels, car rental, and baggage charges, it always ends up costing more than you might think.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: December 2020-January 2021

    12/02/2020
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Paying with Your Digital Wallet or Phone: What You Need to Know

    11/24/2020
    If you've shopped your favorite store lately, you may have noticed signs letting you know that you can now pay with your phone. With this method of payment growing in popularity, even smaller shops are getting in on the trend. What should you know about using your phone or digital wallet to pay? Here are the basics, along with the perks you can get when you make the switch.
  • How to Shop Black Friday Deals and Save

    11/18/2020
    Black Friday 2020 is just around the corner, and many of us are gearing up to take full advantage of the savings. This year, holiday shopping is likely to look a bit different due to COVID-19. Meaning, fewer people lining up for midnight doorbuster deals on Thanksgiving night, and more people opting to take advantage of their favorite retailers' online offers instead.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule: November-December 2020

    11/05/2020
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Finding Work During COVID-19

    10/13/2020
    The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unemployment rates to soar as businesses make cutbacks to try and stay afloat. With so many people looking for work, it is all the more difficult to find a new job. However, there are still some businesses that are hiring and finding a job is still possible in the current climate.
  • Community Connect Spreads Kindness Virtually in 2020

    10/09/2020
    While social distancing keeps us apart, Netspend’s customers and communities have never been closer to our hearts. With the end of 2020 approaching and as we continue adjusting to a “new normal” that feels anything but, Netspend has taken stock of the impacts COVID-19 has had on our customers and communities. The global pandemic has magnified challenges faced by those with limited access to traditional banking systems, highlighted a lack of fairness in digital banking, and accelerated the need forbanking alternatives.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule - October 2020

    10/08/2020
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • How to Spot and Avoid Unemployment Scams

    09/29/2020
    Over the past few months, millions of people have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, many Americans are applying for unemployment benefits and are struggling to find work. Sadly, with so many people applying for benefits, unemployment scams are rife and hard to avoid.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule - September 2020

    09/09/2020
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • Your Guide to Filing for Unemployment Benefits

    09/01/2020
    When you lose your job or have your hours reduced, it can create a great deal of stress in an already difficult time. Even if you're not making any money, your monthly bills still need to get paid. While you're looking for a new job, unemployment benefits provide temporary income to help cover your monthly expenses. This unemployment benefits guide will help you understand what they are, who is eligible, and how to easily set up direct deposit to receive your benefits each month. Also, we cover the recent changes to unemployment benefits as a result of COVID-19.
  • Benefits Payment Schedule - August 2020

    08/05/2020
    As you probably know, we typically receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration prior to the payment date shown on the Schedule of Social Security Benefits Payments 2020. We post your benefits to your card account as soon as we receive it so you can get paid.
  • 6 Smart Resolutions for the New Year

    03/10/2020
    The end of the year is truly the best time to evaluate your financial situation. This is when credit card companies and banks send end-of-year statements to their customers. Employers will soon send the necessary forms for filing 2019 taxes.
  • IRS Scams: Dirty Dozen of Tax Return Fraud for 2020

    01/16/2020
    Each year, the IRS releases the Dirty Dozen – a list of the largest tax scams they saw for that year's taxes. The IRS scams list reads like a playbook from the past, with phishing, identity theft, and fake charities making the top 12. These common scams are increasing in complexity, so they require a careful look. In addition to expected appearances, the list is dominated by private, white-collar fraud, including abusive tax shelters, partially-fraudulent business credit applications, and falsified credit claims.
  • Why Prepaid Cards and Gift Cards Are Not the Same

    01/08/2020
    Over the years, both prepaid cards and gift cards have evolved to be more consumer friendly. They now come with a variety of features that are designed to make them a great payment method for the consumer. However, before you decide to load money onto either of these payment options, it's important to know the difference between these two cards.
  • Pro Tip: How to Pay with Your Digital Wallet

    12/17/2019
    Going digital has certainly changed the way we listen to music and watch TV, so it should come as no surprise that it’s changed the way we pay for things too. Now you can make purchases using what’s called your digital wallet. And don’t worry, if you’re not really sure what a digital wallet is or how to use it, we’ll get to all that and more.
  • Pro Tip: How to Pay with Your Digital Wallet

    12/17/2019
    Going digital has certainly changed the way we listen to music and watch TV, so it should come as no surprise that it’s changed the way we pay for things too. Now you can make purchases using what’s called your digital wallet. And don’t worry, if you’re not really sure what a digital wallet is or how to use it, we’ll get to all that and more.
  • 8 Ways to Help Protect Yourself from Identity Theft and Keep your Information Safe

    12/11/2019
    Identity theft is common. So common, in fact, that according to a poll, 60 million Americans were affected in 2018. To fraudsters, data is a valuable commodity, and your risk of exposure happens every time you connect. In addition to more victims having to pay out of pocket for their losses, a significant number of people do not yet use a more secure internet connection. For example, according to VPN Mentor, only 16% of Americans used VPNs (Virtual Privacy Networks) when connected to the internet, and that’s giving identity thieves precisely the breach they need to access lucrative information. To state it simply, VPNs can keep you safer when connected to networks that aren't your own, like public Wi-Fi.
  • Netspend’s Annual One-Day Community Connect Event Gifts Over $30,000 to Unsuspecting Austin Residents

    12/05/2019
    With the holiday season upon us, most U.S. consumers are creating gift lists and hitting the store aisles. However, this time of year proves more financially challenging than cheerful for a significant portion of the population. Despite economic growth and the availability of online financial services, nearly 27% of U.S. households remain unbanked or underbanked, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Additionally, even though the poverty rate in the U.S. is slowly improving, the general cost of living it is still a problem in many areas of the country – including Georgia and Texas, home to two of Netspend’s national offices.
  • Popular Scams of 2019 & How to Avoid Them

    11/04/2019
    Phishing, Nigerian letter fraud, and ransomware are scamming tactics that have been used for years, but they’re capturing new victims through an ever-increasing degree of sophistication. This year, phishing – an attempt to get your sensitive information through seemingly trustworthy electronic communications – accounted for 90% of all data breaches, having grown by 65% in just 12 months.
  • 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Financial Goals

    08/22/2019
    If you've decided that it's time to work on setting goals that will help you achieve more financial balance and financial security, you deserve a hearty pat on the back. It's time to take more control of your finances and start dictating more of your future, but before you're off to the races, take the time to understand what constitutes a reasonable goal that will yield the results you want. Here are five mistakes you should avoid when setting financial goals.
  • 5 Principles for Debt Management

    07/30/2019
    Here are the 5 principles of debt management that will get you started on the right path and keep you there. Debt management plans will help you take control of your debt and work toward a better financial future.
  • Get Out of Debt: A How To Guide To Getting Back On Track

    07/10/2019
    Eliminating your debt is one of the best things you can do to experience financial security and build wealth. It’s a lot said than done though. Just because it can be challenging to get out of debt, doesn't mean that you can't do it. Follow the steps listed below to help you get started on the right track.
  • Tips for Saving Money Through Couponing

    06/17/2019
    There are plenty of tips out there for saving money, but few of them produce the same kind of immediate savings that you can find with couponing. Coupons instantly reduce the amount you pay at checkout so you spend less on the items you use most. Investing a little time in couponing can produce significant savings. If it has been a while since you clipped coupons in the Sunday paper, here are some tips for saving money that will get you up to speed and help you make the most of couponing.
  • Insights from the Netspend Income Volatility Report

    05/21/2019
    May 29, 2019 -- More Americans are grappling with unpredictable incomes. What’s more, they’re doing so without additional support from employers or the financial services industry at large. In surveying more than 2,700 Americans, Netspend found approximately one in five individuals dealt with monthly income fluctuations. However, only 6% of respondents said their employers provide tools to help mitigate financial instability.
  • Tips for Saving Money to Buy a House

    04/24/2019
    Purchasing a home provides a range of both financial and personal benefits. However, buying a house is a major investment that may require a substantial down payment along with other moving costs. With that in mind, here are some tips for saving money that could help you save so that you could one day buy your own home.
  • Tips for Saving Money to Buy a House

    04/24/2019
    Purchasing a home provides a range of both financial and personal benefits. However, buying a house is a major investment that may require a substantial down payment along with other moving costs. With that in mind, here are some tips for saving money that could help you save so that you could one day buy your own home.
  • Travel Cheap - How to Budget Travel the Right Way

    02/05/2019
    Traveling can feel like a luxury that is beyond your budget, but there are some travel hacks that will help you get out of town without spending too much. If you are willing to do some research and be flexible with your plans, then you may be able to enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating trip. Keep reading for tips on how to travel cheap.
  • The First Rule of Making a Personal Budget -- Keep It Simple

    11/20/2018
    As you begin to put together your personal budget and begin the journey toward better financial stability, there will be plenty of advice on where to begin and how to proceed. Sometimes too much information can be a bad thing, especially when you're already feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of finally confronting your spending and savings habits. With all the "rules" out there about the best ways to create a personal budget, there is really only one you need to follow: keep it simple.
  • Take Control of Your Finances and Get Out of Debt

    09/25/2018
    Sometimes it can feel like debt sneaked up on you, and now you have to deal with what feels like an overwhelming burden. No one wants to stay in debt, but it can be difficult to know where to start so you can take that first step and start building positive momentum. Taking control of your finances so that you can get out of debt will require some behavioral changes and a new perspective on what you value, but it can be done. Here is how you can get started.
  • Important Travel Tips to Get Low Budget Travel Packages

    08/31/2018
    Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you have to stay at home. It can be possible to see new sights and experience different places even if you have a small travel budget. There are plenty of great, money-saving packages that allow you to enjoy steep discounts that will put traveling well within your reach.
  • Common Debt Management Mistakes People Make and How to Avoid Them

    07/24/2018
    If you’ve decided to improve your debt management skills and want to take the first steps to eliminating debt, there’s always some room for improvement. It's never too late to learn from your mistakes and avoid them going forward. Better yet, you can learn from others' mistakes and avoid making them altogether. Here are a few debt management mistakes people make and solutions to get back on track.
  • 5 Easy Ways to Save Money when Grocery Shopping

    07/09/2018
    Grocery shopping is one of those necessary expenses that can eat (pun intended) away at your monthly budget. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to save money at the grocery store. With a little research and planning, you can learn where to shop and what to shop for to master your grocery list. To help you get started, here are 5 easy ways to save money when grocery shopping.
  • Money Management: Tips for Creating a Budget

    06/26/2018
    Creating a budget is a vital part of managing your money and meeting your financial goals. If you have a history of not tracking your spending habits, even the idea of creating a budget can be intimidating. The good news is that outlining a budget for yourself can be a straightforward process that will make a big difference in your life. Follow these simple steps to get started.
  • Common Scams Cardholders Fall For & How to Avoid Them

    06/12/2018
    No matter how many times people are told to never share their personal information, scammers still manage to find new ways to elicit prepaid, debit, and credit card numbers from unsuspecting consumers. It is also easy to assume that you would never fall for one of these scams, but you might be surprised, especially when you are dealing with sophisticated criminals who appeal to your sense of politeness and other social norms. Your best defense is to be aware of what scams are out there and know how to avoid them.
  • 4 Essential Tips to Help Stretch Your Budget and Make Your Money Go Further

    04/17/2018
    You may not be able to double your income overnight, but you can stretch your budget and work to get the most out of your money. Instead of being a passive consumer, you can advocate for yourself and start to be more conscious about how and where you spend your money. Following these 4 essential tips can help you stretch your budget without feeling like you have to sacrifice every little thing.
  • Your 2018 Tax Refund FAQs

    04/12/2018
    We’ve put together the answers to the most common tax questions we receive from Netspend Prepaid Cardholders, so you’ll be prepared when you file your taxes this year. If you have questions that aren’t answered here, check our main FAQs or contact customer service at 1-866-387-7363.
  • Andrew Got the Job of His Dreams

    04/03/2018
    Andrew is a United States Veteran and has a goal of becoming a specialized scuba diving instructor one day. The initial step towards his career goal was to obtain a Rebreather Instructor Certification. In 2016, Andrew was selected as one of Netspend’s scholarship recipients, and he went on to pursue his certification.
  • Gretarshii Received Her MBA in October 2017

    04/03/2018
    Gretarshii worked towards accomplishing her MBA longer than she expected. She had to put off pursuing any kind of higher education to take care of her family. “I was a single mother of three that was stuck working dead end jobs, trying to make a living and provide for my family."
  • 10 Tax Mistakes that Could Cost You

    12/11/2017
    This is a preview of a post from the Liberty Tax blog. The views expressed within the blog are those of Liberty Tax and do not necessarily represent or reflect the view of Netspend®, MetaBank®, or Association. For the entire post, please click here.Most people wish to be done with their taxes as quickly and easily as possible, but filling out your forms too quickly increases the chances of you making a mistake. Making an error on your forms could mean the difference between receiving a tax refund and owing additional taxes. That’s why the folks over at Liberty Tax have put together the top 10 most common mistakes people make when filing their taxes.
  • Give Yourself the Gift of Secure Shopping

    11/27/2017
    The upcoming holiday season is the busiest time of the year for many people. While we finalize our gift lists, cyber criminals plan their attacks. In 2017, more shoppers are expected to purchase presents online than ever before. Follow the tips below to stay safe while shopping online.
  • How Millennials are Not Banking

    07/18/2017
    Often when people think of prepaid card holders, the unbanked and underbanked of America, they think of lower income households. It’s a long-held belief that to save you have to rely on traditional banking, but millennials are looking to disrupt the system. In fact, according to Business Insider, the two youngest adult generations in the US accounted for 80% of prepaid card owners in August 2013. This has led to an increase in prepaid card issuers in recent years offering consumers more choices, meaning it’s easier to find the best prepaid card for your lifestyle.
  • Community Connect 2016

    03/21/2017
    You never really know someone until you walk around in their shoes. That’s why every December, instead of throwing a holiday party for ourselves, we ask every employee to go out and walk in the shoes of our customers. Its part scavenger hunt, part pay it forward, all teamwork and empathy. We call it Community Connect.
  • 7 Ways to Pay Less in Taxes

    03/06/2017
    Everybody wants to pay less taxes, and with good planning throughout the year, you can make it happen. You can reduce your taxable income, help yourself, and help others. It’s easier than you may think.
  • Prepaid Cards 101

    01/12/2017
    The views expressed within the blog do not represent or reflect the view of MetaBank® , National Association, or Association.
  • How to Avoid Being a Cybercrime Victim

    12/05/2016
    Chances are you know someone who has been a victim of cybercrime or you’ve been one yourself. Almost half of American adults had their personal information exposed by cybercriminals in 2015, according to the Ponemon Institute.
  • cybercrime

    12/05/2016
    Chances are you know someone who has been a victim of cybercrime or you’ve been one yourself. Almost half of American adults had their personal information exposed by cybercriminals in 2015, according to the Ponemon Institute.
  • How to Protect Your Identity and Avoid Scams

    10/19/2016
    Unfortunately, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States with millions of victims a year according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If you’ve been a victim of identity theft, then you know how frustrating it can be to resolve and reclaim your money.