Yes, you can transfer money from Bluebird to a bank account

Bluebird is a prepaid card issued by American Express, and you can move money from it to a traditional bank account in a few different ways. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money and whether you want to transfer the full balance or just part of it.

The most common routes are a direct transfer to your linked bank account (which takes one to three business days), an ATM withdrawal (which gives you cash when ready), or a transfer through the Bluebird app or website. Each method has different limits and fees, so understanding your options helps you pick the one that fits your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • You can transfer money from Bluebird to a linked bank account through the Bluebird app or website, and the money usually arrives in one to three business days.
  • Withdrawing cash at an ATM is the fastest way to access your money, though you may pay a fee if you use an out-of-network machine.
  • Bluebird does not charge a fee for transfers to your own bank account, but your bank may charge a fee on their end.
  • You must link your bank account to Bluebird before you can transfer money, which requires your bank's routing number and your account number.
  • Bluebird has daily and monthly transfer limits that vary depending on your account type and history.

Transferring money through the Bluebird app or website

The simplest way to move money from Bluebird to your bank account is through the official Bluebird app or the Bluebird website. You log in, select the transfer option, choose your linked bank account as the destination, and enter the amount you want to send.

Before you can do this, you need to link your bank account to Bluebird. You will need your bank's routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and your account number. Bluebird will ask you to verify the account by depositing two small amounts into it — usually a few cents each — and then you enter those amounts back into the Bluebird app to confirm you own the account. This process typically takes two to three business days to complete.

Once your account is linked, transfers usually take one to three business days to show up in your bank account. Bluebird itself does not charge a fee for this transfer, but your bank may charge a fee for receiving an external transfer. Check with your bank about their policy before you transfer.

Withdrawing cash at an ATM

If you need cash right away, you can use your Bluebird card at any ATM. This is the fastest way to access your money — you get the cash when ready. Bluebird lets you withdraw money at MoneyPass ATMs and Allpoint ATMs without a fee. You can find these machines through the Bluebird app by searching for nearby ATMs.

If you use an ATM that is not part of the MoneyPass or Allpoint network, Bluebird will charge you a fee (the amount varies). Your ATM's bank may also charge you a fee for using their machine. Check the ATM screen before you complete the withdrawal — it will tell you if there is a fee and how much it is.

ATM withdrawals do not move money to your bank account; they give you physical cash. If you want the money in your bank account instead, you would need to deposit the cash yourself at your bank or through a mobile deposit app.

Understanding Bluebird transfer limits

Bluebird sets daily and monthly limits on how much you can transfer to your bank account. These limits depend on your account type and how long you have held the account. A newer account typically has lower limits than one you have held for several months.

You can see your current transfer limits by logging into the Bluebird app or website and looking at your account settings. If you need to transfer more than your limit allows, you have two options: wait until the next day or month for your limit to reset, or contact Bluebird customer service to ask if your limit can be increased.

ATM withdrawal limits are separate from transfer limits. You can usually withdraw more cash at an ATM in a single day than you can transfer electronically, but Bluebird sets a daily ATM withdrawal limit as well.

What happens if your bank account is not linked yet

If you have not yet linked a bank account to Bluebird, you cannot transfer money electronically. Your options are to withdraw cash at an ATM and deposit it yourself, or to spend the money directly using your Bluebird card.

Linking an account takes a few days because Bluebird needs to verify that you own the bank account. If you are in a hurry to move money, ATM withdrawal is faster — you can do it the same day. If you plan to transfer money regularly, it is worth linking your account now so it is ready when you need it.

Fees and costs to watch for

Bluebird does not charge you a fee to transfer money to your own linked bank account. However, your bank may charge a fee for receiving an incoming transfer from an external source. Some banks charge a small fee (a dollar or two) for each external transfer, while others do not charge anything. Call your bank or check their website to find out their policy.

ATM withdrawals at out-of-network machines will cost you a fee from Bluebird, and possibly another fee from the ATM operator. Using MoneyPass or Allpoint ATMs avoids Bluebird's fee. If you withdraw cash and then deposit it at your bank, your bank may also charge a deposit fee, though most do not.

If you use your Bluebird card to make a purchase instead of transferring the money, there is no fee — that is one reason some people use prepaid cards for everyday spending.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to transfer money from Bluebird to my bank account?

Transfers usually take one to three business days. The exact timing depends on your bank and when you initiate the transfer. Transfers made on a weekend or holiday may take longer because banks do not process them until the next business day.

Can I transfer money from Bluebird to someone else's bank account?

No. Bluebird only lets you transfer money to a bank account that is linked to your own Bluebird account. You cannot send money directly to another person's account. If you need to send money to someone else, you would need to withdraw cash or use a different service like a money transfer app.

What if my transfer does not show up after three business days?

Contact Bluebird customer service through the app or website and report the missing transfer. Have your transfer confirmation number ready. Bluebird will investigate and either locate the transfer or issue you a refund. Your bank may also be able to help trace the transfer on their end.

Is there a limit to how much I can transfer in one day?

Yes. Bluebird sets a daily transfer limit that varies by account. Check your account settings in the app or website to see your current limit. If you need to transfer more, you can split it across multiple days or contact Bluebird to request a limit increase.

Can I transfer money from Bluebird if my bank account is closed?

No. If your linked bank account is closed, the transfer will fail and the money will stay on your Bluebird card. You would need to link a different bank account or withdraw the money as cash at an ATM instead.