If you've been using Netspend for some time now, you should already know that it isn't quite the best option when it comes to compatibility, especially for receiving transfer cards like the Direct Express card.
Well, that's in the direct sense.
If you need a walk-around to transfer your funds, I'll show you the steps you need to take to transfer money from your Direct Express card to your Netspend card.
Can I Transfer Money from My Direct Express Card to A Netspend Card?
No, you can't transfer money directly from a Direct Express card to a NetSpend card.
The fault shouldn't be attributed solely to Netspend, but also to Direct Express, as we are all aware that these cards, designed for federal benefits, aren't always flexible when it comes to spending your funds.
The Direct Express card lacks the technical feature to make the transfer to another card easier.
However, there are other indirect ways to transfer money from a Direct Express card to a Netspend card, such as using a bank account as a bridge.
How to Transfer Money from Direct Express Card to A Netspend Card
Transferring money from Direct Express Card to a bank account isn't directly possible. Only indirect methods can help you complete this process.
To complete this transaction, you'll need a US bank account. Though it's a time-consuming process, it is the best way you have to deal with it.
As a result, you'll need to transfer funds from your Direct Express card to your bank account. To begin the transfer process, phone the customer service representative.
You can also do it yourself by entering your bank account number and routing number into the website.
Once the money reflects in your bank account, all you'll need to do is transfer the funds to your NetSpend card.
You'll need to link your bank account to your NetSpend card account in that case.
Using a linked bank account is a great way to transfer money from a Direct Express card to a Netspend card.
In fact, it is more like transferring money from a prepaid card to a bank account.
This process can be completed in 2 steps; transferring to a bank account and then transferring from the bank account to your Netspend card.
Let's cover each step in detail.
1. Transfer Money from Direct Express Card to Your Bank Account
Direct Express offers customers the option to transfer funds to any personal U.S. bank account. However, you'll be charged a $1.50 fee for the service.
There are two options for transferring funds from your Direct Express Card to your bank account, which include:
- Call customer service: — You can call the customer service center at 888-741-1115 to transfer money to your bank account. This number is usually found on the back of your card. Any representative will do everything possible to resolve the problem of transferring funds from a Direct Express card to a bank account.
- At Direct Express's website: — You can also use the Direct Express website to make a money transfer from Direct Express. You'll need to provide your account number as well as the routing number for your bank.
2. Transfer Money from Your Bank Account to the Netspend Card
Most banks allow transfers to other accounts or prepaid cards from their accounts.
Following that, you can deposit funds onto your NetSpend card from any US bank.
The Netspend card account supports transfers from bank accounts — this means you can set up your Netspend card account as a payment recipient on your checking account and follow the instructions set by your bank to transfer funds. You'll need your Netspend routing and account numbers.
While each bank offers its own steps for transferring money, here's a scheme of steps to follow when looking to transfer money from your bank account to your Netspend card account:
- Log into your bank's website or connect via the bank's app.
- Click on the transfer feature and choose transfer to another bank.
- Enter the Netspend routing and account numbers for your Netspend card account.
- Tap the "Transfer" or "Send" button to make the transfer.
It should take between 1 to 3 business days for the funds to reflect in your Netspend card account.
Alternative Ways to Transfer Money from Direct Express Card to a Netspend Card
There are also alternative ways to transfer money from Direct Express card to a Netspend card, which include:
- Through an ATM: —Withdraw the funds from your Direct Express Card at your nearby ATM. Then go to the bank and deposit it into your Netspend Card's linked bank account. You are free to deposit whenever you choose.
- Through a Money Order: — A money order can be used to transfer funds. Other than bank transfers, purchasing things from convenience stores and post offices might be a smart way to put money into the other account quickly.
How Long Does It Take to Transfer Money from Direct Express to a Netspend Card?
Since the transfer will have to pass through a bank account first, it can take between 1 to 3 business day for funds to be transferred to your bank account. Once they arrive in your bank account, you should be able to transfer them to your Netspend card account.
The complete transfer can take between 3 to 5 business days to complete.
Are There Fees to Transfer Money from a Direct Express Card to Netspend Card?
Yes, there are fees involved when transferring money from Direct Express to Netspend, and they can be really high, especially from Netspend since it's a costly banking alternative.
FAQs About Can I Transfer Money From My Direct Express Card to a Netspend Card
Can recipients who have a Direct Express® card switch to a traditional checking or savings account and receive their payment by direct deposit?
Close your Direct Express card if you want to receive your money via direct deposit from any savings account. Simply call the customer support department to cancel your card (you will find the number on the back of the card). Enroll in direct deposit to avoid any delays in getting your next benefit check. Contact any federal benefit agency or call 800-333-1795 to enroll up for direct deposit.
Can I sign up for the Direct Express® card even if I have a bank account?
The Direct Express card is essentially a card for federal benefit recipients. Anyone who has received federal government benefits is eligible. You may quickly sign up for a Direct Express card if you have already received any government benefits. You should sign up for direct deposit if the benefit recipient has a bank account. To get assistance with direct deposit enrollment, call Treasury's Go Direct at 800-333-1795. To sign up for direct deposit, go to https://godirect.gov/gpw/. You can contact any federal paying agency for direct deposit as well.
Can I transfer funds from my Direct Express® card to a bank or credit union account outside the United States?
Money cannot be transferred from your Direct Express card to any bank or credit union outside of the United States. Direct Express is the only way to move money from one US bank account to another. However, you can use your Direct Express card outside of the United States.
Can I withdraw money from Direct Express without a card?
There is no bank account or checkbook with Direct Express; it is all about a debit card. The Direct Express card is the sole means to get money out. Without a Direct Express card, it is impossible to withdraw money. You must either use an ATM or any bank or other financial institution that accepts Mastercard and can provide you with cash.
Final Thoughts
The Direct Express® card is a prepaid debit card option for federal benefit recipients to receive their benefits electronically.
Cardholders cannot transfer money from Direct Express to a Netspend card because Direct Express does not feature any functionality to link both platforms.
However, there are indirect ways to transfer money from a Direct Express card to a Netspend card which involves the use of a bank account, ATM, or money order.
References:
https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/6175
https://www.investopedia.com/articles/company-insights/082716/how-netspend-works-and-makes-money-tss.asp
https://amoneyguide.com/can-i-transfer-money-from-my-direct-express-card-to-a-netspend-card/
