What is a Prepaid Card?

A Prepaid Card looks like a Credit or Debit Card, and works in a similar way. Prepaid Card holders can use their card to pay for support, without having to write a cheque or use cash and the money spent is deducted straight from the Personal Budget paid by Stockport.

Who will get a Prepaid Card?

In Adult Social Care, Prepaid Cards will be available to anyone who is provided with a Personal Budget, or who wants a Direct Payment for their support. If you are interested in having a Prepaid Card then you should discuss this with your Social Worker.

What are the advantages of having a Prepaid Card?

In the past, people receiving Direct Payments had to open a separate bank account to pay for their support. With a Prepaid Card, we will make all the arrangements for issuing your card and for adding the money from your Personal Budget onto the Card.

Cards can be used to pay for services by telephone or on the internet, making it easier to make arrangements for your support if you are not able to get out easily. If someone helps you to look after your money, we can arrange for a second card to be issued, so they can arrange support on your behalf.

Do Prepaid Cards use VISA?

Yes, most payments from cards use the Visa network. Below is a list of social care providers that includes details of whether they currently accept Prepaid Cards via the Visa network.

List of registered care agencies

However, if the plan agreed with your Social Worker includes payments to people who can't accept Visa, you can pay money directly into their bank account, or in some circumstances cash payments may be made.