Usually, you'll need to order a Netspend card before it is mailed to you, and if you got one recently without you requesting it, there's probably a reason behind that.
Let's see the different reasons why you received a Netspend card in your mail, even if it came without money on it.
1. Government Benefits
Netspend cards are probably among the best banking alternatives that anyone would like to use in case they don't have a bank account. And considering that you're unbanked and eligible for government benefits, you can receive a Netspend card in the mail with instructions to use it to access your government benefits.
These government benefits can be anything from stimulus payments, tax refunds, to even social security benefits.
2. Employment and Payroll
Again, this is another common thing that usually happens with unbanked employees. Most employers prefer sending payments and paychecks through direct deposit, and if you don't have a bank account to receive your deposit, they might mail you a Netspend card with instructions to receive your paycheck, especially if the employer has an agreement or is in partnership with Netspend.
3. Marketing and Promotions
Another reason why Netspend can mail you a card is that they are looking to market their product. And of course, you'll have to be their customer for them to have to mail you a card for promotional reasons. They know that their product and banking services are costly, so they can send you a free card just to encourage you to bring more customers to use their cards.
4. Fraudulent Activity On Your Account
If someone else has access to your Netspend card, they can use it to order a Netspend card to your mail without your consent. So you should be sure to have complete trust in anyone you share not only your Netspend account but also your whole financial activities with, just so you won't have to get into unfortunate financial situations.
Why Did I Get A Netspend Card With No Money?
NetSpend cards do not come preloaded with money. So even if you ordered and received a Netspend card, you should not expect the card to come with money on it.
Final Thoughts
Netspend cards are a very costly banking alternative and receiving one without actually ordering it can be much of an issue. If you don't recall ordering a Netspend card but got one, just change your card account password and reach out to Netspend support to report the situation.
They should be able to help with explaining why that happened and how you can remedy the situation.
