Security question about a WalMart Money Card

[KarenB]

I received a generous gift in the form of a WalMart reloadable prepaid Visa Card. I opened it and need to activate the card before using it. However, I need to add lots of personal info such as SS#, birthdate, address. Looking at the FAQs, they then send me a card with my name on it. It says this is not a credit card, just a debit card that can be reloaded or cut up and tossed when empty.

Anyone ever use this? Is it safe to enter all this info? I have the receipt with an activation # but can't seem to get past the personal info page.

Thanks so much!

 

[luvsJack]

I use one. The one bought in the store is a temporary card and has no pin number. You cannot use it as an ATM or to pay some bills until you receive the permanent card.

 

[KarenB]

I use one. The one bought in the store is a temporary card and has no pin number. You cannot use it as an ATM or to pay some bills until you receive the permanent card.

I don't want a permanent one, I just want to spend the amount I was given as a gift and be done.

 

[DebbieB]

I don't understand why they need your social security #.

 

[mrsklamc]

Do you trust whoever this came from? Seems very suspicious to me.

 

[sunshinehighway]

Any pre paid reloadable card needs a social. It has something to do. I think its required by Federal law to help prevent terrorism funding or money laundering.

 

[kellyg403]

We sell the reloadables all the time. I have never had anyone who has had an issue with one. They send you one that is exclusive to you, that has your name on. If it somehow should get lost or compromised they will be able to send a new one. Unlike some gift cards, if lost or stolen, the money is gone. This is one that you don't lose anything. It is almost LIKE a credit card.

If you were to use the funds and decide to reload it, you simply purchase a reload kit, and then call the company and they will transfer to the card in your name.

I have never personally used one, or bought one. But this is my experience. I have never had to give ssn or anything for a regular visa/amex/mc gift card. Once its activated for the amount, its useable.

Hth

Kelly

ETA and as another posted, this is classified as a DEBIT card. Basically opening a secured account with the company and you spend it, but no cash back transactions through a register or atm. It is governed by different guidelines that a prepaid/gift card. In the past, you could buy any amount for any reason. As of March or April of this year (can't remember) now if you attempt to purchase more than 2000 in gift cards you must provide two forms of id, one being a social security card, in order to do so. It is then kept on file for an IRS/Homeland Security review for 5 years. Its more of a money laundering aspect than anything. Terrorist and other things.