How to transfer money from a prepaid card to your bank account
You can move money from a prepaid card to a bank account in three main ways: transfer it online through your prepaid card's app or website, visit an ATM and withdraw cash to deposit later, or contact the prepaid card company to request a direct transfer. The fastest method depends on which prepaid card you have and whether your bank account is already linked to it.
Most prepaid card companies now offer at least one digital transfer option. Some let you link your bank account directly within their app and send money when ready or within one business day. Others require you to call customer service or use their website portal. A few older or limited-service cards only allow cash withdrawal, which means you must go to an ATM, withdraw the funds, and deposit them yourself at your bank.
The process takes anywhere from a few minutes (for when ready transfers) to three to five business days (for standard bank transfers). Fees vary widely — some companies charge nothing, while others take a small percentage or a flat fee per transfer. Check your prepaid card's fee schedule before you move money, because the cost can add up if you transfer frequently.
Key Takeaways
- Most prepaid cards let you transfer money to a linked bank account through their app or website, usually within one to three business days.
- ATM withdrawal is always an option if your card has no digital transfer feature, though you then have to deposit the cash yourself.
- Fees for transfers range from zero to several dollars per transaction, so check your card's fee schedule before moving money.
- You will need your bank account number and routing number to set up a direct transfer, or your bank's address if you are mailing a check.
- Some prepaid cards limit how much you can transfer per day or per month, so verify your card's transfer limits before planning a large move.
Setting up a direct transfer through your prepaid card's app or website
Log into your prepaid card's mobile app or website and look for a section labeled "Transfer Money," "Move Funds," "Send to Bank," or "Withdraw." The exact name varies by card issuer. You will see a form asking for your bank account details: your account number, routing number, and the name of your bank.
If this is your first transfer to this bank account, the card company may require you to verify that you own the account. Some do this by depositing two small amounts (usually under one dollar each) into your bank account and asking you to confirm the amounts within a few days. Others send a verification code to your email or phone. This verification step typically takes one to three business days and only happens once per bank account.
After verification is complete, you can enter the amount you want to transfer and choose your transfer speed. "when ready" or "same-day" transfers usually cost more (typically $1 to $3) but arrive within hours. "Standard" transfers are free or cost less but take one to three business days. Once you confirm, the money leaves your prepaid card when ready, even if it takes time to reach your bank account.
Withdrawing cash at an ATM and depositing it yourself
If your prepaid card does not offer digital transfers or you prefer to move cash, use an ATM to withdraw money. Most prepaid cards work at any ATM that displays your card's network logo (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover). Check your card's website or app to find ATMs near you, because some networks have larger networks than others in your area.
Withdraw only what you plan to deposit that day or the next, because carrying large amounts of cash carries risk. Once you have the cash, deposit it at your bank through a teller, an ATM, or a mobile deposit app (if your bank offers one). Mobile deposit — taking a photo of the front and back of the check or cash envelope — is the fastest way if your bank supports it, because you do not have to visit a branch.
ATM withdrawals usually cost $1 to $3 per transaction if you use an out-of-network ATM (one that is not run by your prepaid card's issuer). In-network ATMs are free. If you withdraw and deposit frequently, these fees add up quickly, so compare the cost of ATM withdrawals to the cost of a direct transfer through your card's app.
Calling your prepaid card company to request a transfer
If you cannot find a transfer option in your card's app or website, call the customer service number on the back of your card. Have your bank account number, routing number, and the name of your bank ready. The representative will ask you to verify your identity — usually by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the card.
The representative can set up a one-time transfer or, in some cases, a recurring transfer that happens automatically each month. They will tell you the fee (if any), how long the transfer takes, and when the money will arrive. Some companies process phone transfers the same day, while others take one to three business days.
Keep a record of the confirmation number the representative gives you. Write down the date you called, the amount transferred, and the expected arrival date. If the money does not arrive on time, you can reference this information when you follow up.
Understanding transfer limits and fees
Prepaid card companies set limits on how much you can transfer per day, per week, or per month. These limits vary widely — some cards allow you to transfer your entire balance in one transaction, while others cap daily transfers at $500 or $1,000. Check your card's terms or app to find your specific limits before you plan a large transfer.
Fees also vary by card and by transfer method. Some companies charge nothing for transfers to a linked bank account. Others charge a flat fee (usually $1 to $3) or a percentage of the amount transferred (typically 1 to 3 percent). ATM withdrawals, phone transfers, and when ready transfers often cost more than standard online transfers. A few prepaid cards charge a monthly fee just to keep the account open, which is separate from transfer fees.
Read your prepaid card's fee schedule before you move money. If you transfer frequently, the fees can exceed the cost of straightforward keeping your money in a traditional bank account. Some banks offer free checking accounts with no monthly fees and no transfer charges, which may be a better option if you find yourself regularly moving money off a prepaid card.
What to do if your prepaid card company will not process the transfer
Some prepaid card companies decline transfers for security reasons — for example, if the bank account you are trying to link is brand new, or if you are attempting to transfer from a different state than the one where you opened the card. If your transfer is declined, call customer service and ask why. The representative can often override the block or suggest an alternative method.
If the company refuses to transfer your money and you have no other options, withdraw cash at an ATM and deposit it at your bank. This is slower and may cost more in fees, but it will move your money. If you believe the company is wrongfully holding your funds, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov. The CFPB investigates complaints about financial companies and can pressure them to resolve disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for money to arrive in my bank account after I transfer it?
when ready or same-day transfers usually arrive within a few hours, though sometimes not until the next business day. Standard transfers take one to three business days. Weekends and bank holidays can delay arrival, so a transfer you make on Friday afternoon may not show up until Tuesday. Check your prepaid card's app for a specific delivery date estimate.
Can I transfer money from a prepaid card to someone else's bank account?
No. Prepaid card transfers go only to the account holder's own bank account. If you want to send money to someone else, you will need to withdraw cash or use a separate money transfer service like Western Union or a peer-to-peer payment app.
What if I do not know my bank's routing number?
Call your bank's customer service line (the number is on your debit card or bank statements) and ask for your routing number. You can also find it on your bank's website or by searching "[your bank name] routing number" online. Do not use a routing number you find without confirming it with your bank first, because using the wrong number will send your money to the wrong place.
Will transferring money from a prepaid card to my bank account affect my credit score?
No. Moving money between your own accounts does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repayment history, not on how you move cash around. Transfers are internal account activity and are not reported to credit bureaus.
Can I transfer money back from my bank account to my prepaid card?
Yes, but the process is different and depends on your bank and card. Some banks let you transfer money to a prepaid card through their app or website. Others require you to call. Some prepaid cards do not accept incoming transfers at all. Contact both your bank and your prepaid card company to find out whether this is possible and what the process is.