Sending money by debit card has become a simple process in recent years. By simply entering your card number and expiration date, you can make purchases or transfer funds to family members anywhere in the world. However, sending money by debit card wasn’t always so easy.
While sending funds directly to a debit card isn’t the most popular money transfer option, it is becoming more common. Whether you’re sending money from a credit card, bank account, or even your debit card, the process isn’t as complex as it used to be.
At Remitly, for example, we offer debit card deposits in many countries. If you don’t see the “debit card deposit” option in our app, it’s not yet available in your destination country.
Keep reading to learn more about how and why to send money to a debit card, and keep in mind that delivery options vary depending on the recipient’s location.
Steps to send money to a debit card
The steps to send funds directly to a recipient’s debit card vary depending on the money transfer service you use. That said, here is the usual procedure:
- Open an account: There are very strict laws regarding sending money anonymously. Creating an account is necessary whether you’re sending money to a debit card or making a bank transfer.
- Enter the amount to send: This is a basic step, but there are nuances. Double-check all transfer fees to make sure you won’t be surprised by any unexpected costs.
- Choose a delivery method: Select the option to send funds to a debit card. You will need the recipient’s card details at this stage. Not all money transfer services offer this option.
- Enter your information: You must complete your profile before transferring money.
- Choose a funding source: Although the funds go directly to a debit card, you can use a bank account, credit card, or other funding sources to send money.
- Review and send: Once you’ve entered all the essential information, take a moment to make sure it’s correct. Funds won’t necessarily be lost if you enter something incorrectly, but it’s a hassle you can avoid.
Before sending, make sure the option is open to you. There are countries, like the United States for example, that restrict transfers to certain prepaid debit cards.
Use Remitly to send money to a debit card
How does it work?
When making your transfer, select Deposit to a debit card as the payment method, then enter your recipient’s debit card number and cardholder name. If this is your first transfer and you need help, check out our guide on how to make your first transfer.
What are the advantages of depositing on a debit card?
- Convenient: All you need is your recipient’s 16-digit debit card number.
- Fast: Debit card deposits appear instantly when you pay with a debit or credit card.
- Secure: Sending to a debit card number is as secure as sending to a bank account number.
What types of debit cards are accepted?
Your beneficiary must have a Visa® debit card issued by a bank that allows debit card deposits. Ask your recipient to check with their service provider if they allow debit card deposits.
The benefits of sending money to a debit card
Before sending funds directly to a debit card number, you may consider whether there are any benefits to doing so. After all, these cards are directly linked to a person’s bank account. Doesn’t that mean that any transfer of funds to such an account is the same as a bank deposit?
The main reason for sending funds directly to a debit card is convenience. As soon as the funds are available, your recipient can use this debit card to make payments, top-up cell phones, and more.
In addition, the removal of cash requires travel for the beneficiary. Sending funds to a debit card is faster and easier in most cases.
Send money to a debit card abroad
If you want to transfer funds to a recipient’s debit card domestically, check with your bank. She will be able to explain the best method to you.
When sending funds to a debit card abroad, you must follow the same rules that apply to any international money transfer and use a service that specializes in cross-border payments. It could be a bank, of course, or a money transfer app like ours.
Before sending money abroad, research exchange rates to understand any additional costs you may encounter. Also, find out about fees and offers for new customers.
Money Transfers to Debit Cards: Other Considerations
One of the main problems with sending money by debit card? This option is not always available. Also, here are a few things to check:
- Types of cards accepted: When sending money to a debit card, find out what type of card is accepted (for example, Visa, Mastercard, or another brand). Not all transfer services work with all card types.
- Bank allowances: Not all banks allow funds to be transferred to their customers’ debit cards. In these situations, accelerated bank account transfers may still be available.
- Prepaid Cards: You may be able to send money on prepaid debit cards if obtained from a bank. However, most anonymous and prepaid cards purchased in stores do not allow this.
About Remitly
Remitly makes international money transfers faster, easier, more transparent, and more affordable. Over 3 million people around the world trust our reliable and easy-to-use mobile app.
This publication is provided for general information only and is not intended to cover all aspects of the topics discussed herein. This publication is not a substitute for seeking advice from a specialist or competent professional. The contents of this publication do not constitute legal, tax, or professional advice from Remitly or any of its affiliates and should not be relied upon as such. Although we strive to keep our postings current and accurate, we cannot represent, guarantee or warrant that the content is accurate, complete, or up-to-date.