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Prepaid Card Review Directory

The Bliss, Smash Hits and Magic Prepaid Maestro Card

Which Prepaid? Summary

Date Reviewed: July 2006

Which Prepaid Rating

What's Good

The Bliss, Magic and Smash Hits prepaid cards hit the UK earlier this year. They are relatively cheap to purchase, and run on the Maestro network. Whilst they don’t have the same acceptance as a MasterCard and are not Chip enabled, they are still accepted at around 7 million locations world wide. The primary applicant only has to be 13 years or over to apply for a card.

What's not so good?

You can only reload the cards using a debit or credit card, which attract high reload fees, making them very expensive for frequent users. You are also only permitted to hold a maximum balance of £1000 in your account, and are restricted to a maximum single top-up (reload) of £200.

Key Features

Application Process
2 Stars

The online application process is well designed; however, you require a debit or credit card to purchase your prepaid card. You also need to be prepared to wait up to 21 days to receive your card.

Card Design
4 Stars

A great choice of plastic designs are on offer, so you are sure to find a card that looks good in your wallet or purse.

Fees

Watch those reload fees! These prepaid cards are great for very occasional users, or as gift cards for a friend or relative, but can be extremely expensive if used regularly. It will also cost you £11.60 to get a card and PIN, which is on the high side.

Self Servicing
3 Stars

Well designed internet self service website, enabling you to top-up your account or view your balance and recent transactions. You can also order new prepaid cards for any persons over the age of 13.