• NetSpend

NetSpend

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Overview

NetSpend has a rating of 1.4 stars from 433 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about NetSpend most frequently mention customer service, social security, and debit card problems. NetSpend ranks 18th among Debit Card sites.

  • Service
    205
  • Value
    202
  • Quality
    193

This company responds to reviews on average within 2 days

Positive reviews (last 12 months): 2.9%
Positive
1
Neutral
0
Negative
33
82
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How would you rate NetSpend?
Top Positive Review

“I have used NetSpend for over 10 years and have had 0 problems!”

Laura S.
12/17/19

It is worth paying a $5.00 monthly fee to NetSpend because I get unlimited transactions and I get paid direct deposit money sooner than anyone I work with. NetSpend also gives me free text alerts describing each transaction made so I never have to wonder what my balance is. NetSpend is a trustworthy prepaid card. They will even cover me if I overdraw up to 10 bucks since I have direct deposit. Just read their policies; very simple to understand, choose your plan and you won't be disappointed.

Top Critical Review

“DO NOT USE NETSPEND!”

Stephanie O.
8/6/24

NetSpend is the worst bank I have ever dealt with. Their customer service reps are a complete joke. DO NOT USE NETSPEND. If anyone has any negative social media links, please share with me so I can spread the word.

Reviews (433)

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Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (108) bank account (20) security card (14) security number (15)
Thumbnail of user pennyd114
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
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June 27th, 2021

I have been with them since they started. They are the worst when it comes to depositing checks into your acct. I have one check from Dept of Treasury. They declined. I have a paycheck that they accepted direct deposit from my company but my 1st check they won't deposit. Why have an acct if they don't do what is needed.

Tip for consumers:
Go through a REAL bank

Products used:
NA

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We highly regret the inconvenience. However, we could not understand the exact problem. Please shoot us a message at social@Netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user christophers2505
1 review
0 helpful votes
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August 25th, 2022

Don't not use netspend I switched from card.com to netspend and that was the worst mistake I made... netspend ended up charging me 56.00 in fees for 1 week and Bankcorp bank (card.com) only charges me a 1 time monthly fee of 9.95 dollars to use my card vs using netspend and getting 1.50 taken off my card everytime I use it... netspend is a joke and I am going to cut my card up because I done switched back to bankcorp bank...

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that. It sounds like you are signed up for our Pay-As-You-Go plan. For every debit/PIN and signature/credit transaction there is a fee. We do have a monthly plan that allows for unlimited purchases. You can change your fee plan at any time through the Online Account Center. Please send an email to social@netspend.com if you still need assistance.

Thumbnail of user shelbyt121
1 review
0 helpful votes
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April 16th, 2023

I went through a domestic violence issue where I was almost murdered. I changed my last name and my NetSpend had money on it. But then my name didn't match. Everything has my new last name even my social security card. They told me because it wasn't for marriage they won't change anything. Because if it was for marriage they would. So never will I use them again.

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Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

That doesn't sound right. We are able to accept documents to update accounts where there is a legal name change.

We would be happy to provide more details. For assistance, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user eugened88
1 review
4 helpful votes
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March 30th, 2021

Worst company I dealt with. I had a issue with my insurance company I call net spend to help oh they did closed my account for over 26 days now took my money which I can not get because they closed my credit. Card still waiting on a replacement card best part was when I went to use my. Credit card it was declined people be aware what this company can do called them numerous times only to here its comming

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Hello,

Netspend offers prepaid debit cards, not credit cards. For assistance with your card, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user jeffg255
1 review
4 helpful votes
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August 1st, 2018

Net spend is another garbage prepaid debit card company that uses deceptive advertising and marketing. Do yourself a favor and cut your net spend card in half. If you're considering Netspend, do yourself a favor and don't.

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Dear Jeff,

We are very sorry to hear that you feel this way about our product. We would like to address any concerns you may have and request that you email us at social@netspend.com.

Thank you,

Netspend

Thumbnail of user nikkig96
1 review
0 helpful votes
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November 21st, 2020

I had a horrible experience trying to get a hold off my card. I was cold transfered more than 7 times. Each transfer was back to the previous department I had spoken with. I asked multiple times to speak with a supervisor because nothing was getting accomplished, I was denied and told my problem did not warrant speaking with a manager. I then asked to file a formal complaint, and that too was decline. I myself work in a call center and it is frowned upon to cold transfer, especially if customer requests a warm transfer. I have been using netspend since 2017 and I have never had to contact customer service. Now that I see how the customer service is, it worrisome if I problem in the future how it would be handled. This call should have taken 10min tops. I had to deal with being transferred for over 45 min. I am extremely disappointed with how this was handled.

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Thank for providing feedback in your reviews. We're sorry to hear about your experience. To speak with us in more detail, please email social@netspend.com.

-Netspend

Thumbnail of user briannaj73
1 review
0 helpful votes
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June 23rd, 2022

The app doesn't work, the online website doesn't work, and the customers service singlehandedly ruined my entire day, AGAIN. I'm closing my account and never looking back. Please do not do business with these con artists!

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear about your experience.

If you'd like to speak with us about your concerns, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user kevinc2938
3 reviews
3 helpful votes
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May 11th, 2023

This site is horrible and can't be trusted. I tried to register my card and it required me to create an account. After creating an account and registering my card it told me that other information was required and gave me a number to call. After calling the number and entering the required information it told me that the information was incorrect and disconnected. Speedy cash is a more reliable and safe way to go!

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We are sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with the activation process. For assistance, please email us at social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user austina86
1 review
1 helpful vote
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November 30th, 2020

The lady that i spoke to deserves to lose her job for how she wouldnt transfer me. They closed my card for no reason... But some how cant reactivate it. The lady put me on hold then came back after 15 mins saying she was transfering me. She needs to be fired! Now im on hold for her boss 20 mins later still nothing $#*! this place..

Thumbnail of user robinr557
1 review
0 helpful votes
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April 12th, 2021

My stimulus check was deposited on March 12th. Within 8 hours my entire check was stolen with a virtual card. Only $5 was left out of my $1400 check. Any real bank would have flagged the card during the first 2 transactions. $500 and a $300 western union transfer. I called as soon as I noticed. It took me 3 days to get in contact with netspend. Once I did get in contact with Netspend I was given the runaround. I still have no gotten my money back. I spoke with someone today and was told it would take 15 business days to receive my money back. Within 15 days they would mail me a check. Even though the money was deposited onto my bank card. They decided to close my account and mail me a check. The check still has not been mailed out... they will mail it with 15 business days. It is ridiculous that I have been give the runaround and I am the victim. Netspend has the worst customer service.

Tip for consumers:
don't get your stimulus check deposited into Netspend.

Products used:
Prepaid card

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that. For assistance, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user christinak549
1 review
0 helpful votes
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October 2nd, 2022

I have had a Netspend account for 15 years. Same address and all info the same. They locked my account - I still don't know why. I have sent in all the documents they asked for and they still won't unlock! I even went to the social security office and got a temporary card as I couldn't locate my original. Still the ignorant employees of Netspend won't unlock my account! I even sent in my irs tax form 1099 which states my ss number and name along with bank statements, electric and cable bills and copy of my drivers license! Still can't get anyone with a brain to unlock my account. I have gone 5 days without my medication because I can't access my funds! And still no answers and no one who speaks English. May have to get a lawyer and editor of our huge local Seattle newspaper involved! Complete incompetence and they have all my id and documents!

Tip for consumers:
Do not use Netspend or Meta Bank!!

Products used:
Netspend card

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that. Please email us at social@netspend.com and we will look into it.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user ronhansen.city1
1 review
1 helpful vote
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June 13th, 2023

Net spend is a scam I went to take 40.00 out of the atm when there was 48.00 in there. They declined the the transaction then they credited my card for 43.50, and charged me 1.00 for a decline fee plus charged me 2.95 for a cash withdrawal that I was declined on when there was more than enough for the fourty dollars. The place is a scam that creates extra money by declining transaction and keeping the fee.

Products used:
Netspend prepaid.

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that. We can review your transaction history and fee plan with you. Please email us at social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user robinc936
1 review
0 helpful votes
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September 17th, 2022

I just tried to activate a replacement card and because I DID know the exact day I started banking with them two years I was told sorry can't help you and shut me down. I can't get to a live person now even with my social. On the website I don't have a history with them and I'm now losing my storage unit. I'm going to the inspector general about this. Gobank did the same to me years ago. It took me months to get my own money. Never again for me. Report them.

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear you are having trouble with activating a replacement card. Please send us an email to social@netspend.com if you still need assistance.

Thumbnail of user tinag819
1 review
1 helpful vote
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June 23rd, 2022

Somebody was charging my account with Google games and they said it wasn't no fraudulent claim when I'm telling them it was because I did not charge that to my account. They don't want to refund me my money and I believe if you can't see it or feel your money it's a chance it could be stolen. I believe they care too less about refunding your money longs as they get theirs. Because every charge that's made on your account they get money. So refunding your money it's taking money from them so they won't find your case fraudulent I believe you got to fight for your rights

Service
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Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear about your experience. If you'd like to speak with us about your dispute claim, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user vw40
1 review
2 helpful votes
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August 8th, 2020

Do NOT get this card if you want to transfer money from your Wells Fargo account to load the card. WF does NOT allow money into Metabank, which is the associated bank of Netspend. Why? Must be a good reason. Suspicious. Very inconvenient to drive to a refill location just to load the card and send $ to someone. Wish I would've known this, I never would have gotten a Netspend card

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that you were having issues with your institution. Your Netspend card can receive direct deposits using the account and routing number that are included with the card paperwork. To speak with us about your concerns, please email social@netspend.com. Thank you.

Thumbnail of user carolinae26
1 review
0 helpful votes
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April 26th, 2021

By mistake my teenager put her OWN money on this card thinking it was a gift card, well I called them twice explained the situation send ALL requested documents and they won't activate the card! Like is some company money in it?! $#*!ty in ALL levels!

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user cherylc90
1 review
2 helpful votes
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February 26th, 2017

I would of give this company 0 stars if I could of all they care about is them they will not give you a tracking number when you pay there dam fee to get the card sooner. They will not accept any direct deposits if you do not have your card even after you have paid that fee. They will not do anything to help you out. The second I get access to my money I will be pulling it all out and going to a differnt company Stay as far away from these people as you can.

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Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Dear Cheryl,

We regret to hear about your recent experience with our service. We should be able to provide you with a tracking number for your expedited card. Please email social@netspend.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Thank you,

Netspend

Thumbnail of user zebulonh4
1 review
0 helpful votes
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August 27th, 2022

Netspend guys don't give em a try. My card was nlockrd cause of suspicious transactions, but my card in my pocket I try to call them and say it didn't happen. I got evicted cause they made me wait 8 days for my money. Anything with netspend sray away. I was loyal been with them for 5 years plus. I'm thru

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Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

That doesn't sound right. Your personal information and Card Account security are very important to us. If we detect suspicious or high risk activity, your Card Account may be suspended/ blocked, in order to verify information with you. We understand this can be an inconvenience, but we can assure you that it is only meant as a protection of your Card Account.

If you would like to speak with us, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user ambers565
1 review
0 helpful votes
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September 7th, 2021

I been waiting for almost 4 months now and i had over 700 dollars on my account ad i tried everything to get it unlocked and netspend locked my account and i been waiting for more then 10 days and i never received my money and its not right for netspend to do that to me for the second time now. If i was u i wouldnt recommend netspend to anyone they are a piece of $#*!...

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

For assistance with your issue, please email us at social@netspend.com with the full name on the account and as many details as possible.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user elizabethr730
2 reviews
5 helpful votes
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June 29th, 2020

I am locked out of my acct. I tried to change my password at least 25 times. I called customer service and the rep could barely speak English. I've tried many new passwords and nothing works. I am closing my acct. I hate this bank! So amateur!

Thumbnail of user stepheny243
1 review
1 helpful vote
  • Send Message
May 12th, 2021

On 5/7/21 our card was fine pm 5/10/21when 350.00 was put in account closed it! Also by Monday 5/17 3300 yall are saying 10 business days to even mail a check. That is unacceptable and ridiculous this is people's lives who need their money way before no 10 buisness days and you mail it! I was told would be called by back office and them send me the cash to store. No call no reply to emails since Monday 4 buisness days now! We are a working family with 5 kids and need access to money and your company thinks it can just block people from their money it is illegal and that's why your company was sued in 2018 for the exact same things I guess paying 3 mill to the ftc for customers did not hurt crooks like you! Anyone done this way I suggest file complaint with the ftc now! I have and the tx state attorney general anyone I can I'm going to all local news tomorrow too!

Service
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Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We'd be happy to see what happened with your account. Please email us at social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user nakiaj2
1 review
1 helpful vote
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March 1st, 2016

I mean so so horrible. I been filing my son taxes for years. He went to college in Sept. He ordered netspend online for his taxes to go on card. They put a hold on card. Saying he need to prove his identity. I mean IRS, approved him what the hell NETSPEND need additional info for. I been dealing with them for 2weeks still haven't released his funds. I have sent in license, Social, school ID and letter from school and they still haven't released his money now they say they need school records really they sucks get a Walmart green dot they are awesome!

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Hi Nakia,

We regret to hear of the problems your son experienced with our card.

We are required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens a prepaid debit card account. When our cardholders open a card account or add a secondary cardholder, we ask for their name, physical street address, date of birth, and other information that will allow us to reasonably identify them. The requirement to obtain this information is displayed on the inside flap of the card package and is visible to consumers prior to purchase. The card package also states that use of the card is limited prior to identity verification.

Please have your son email us at social@netspend.com and we will be happy to help.

Thank you,

NetSpend

Thumbnail of user jc1452
1 review
0 helpful votes
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January 4th, 2022

I just meant to buy a gift card. Just grabbed one at walmart. THEN I realized it wasn't what I thought it was. I tried returning it but walmart won't take it back. I have tried cancelling it but the phone number wants personal info (social #) just to talk to someone. I sent an email to them but haven't heard back. BTW on the phone it offers more choices to talk to someone if I push #4. Pushing 4 only gives a message that it is invalid. I guess I am luck I only put $30. On it. For a loss of $32.94. Not much to many, but I am retired on a fixed income and really can't afford to lose what I haven't saved and budgeted for. I will keep pursuing a way to get my money back. BBB, all review sites, and emailing them.

Products used:
None

Service
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Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

Like other financial companies that offer prepaid debit cards, we are required by our bank, as well as MasterCard and Visa associations, to be compliant with AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and BSA (Bank Secrecy Act) laws. Both laws require that all financial institutions verify the identity of each account holder.

This means that we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and your government ID number during the activation process.

We offer several options if you do not wish to fully activate the card. For additional assistance, please email social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user pedroc202
1 review
0 helpful votes
  • Send Message
April 26th, 2021

They will hold your money hostage and charge you a dollar for everything on top of other fees. Their customer service is what I imagine a room full of bafoons looks like and they all sound like they have marbles in their mouth. Being direct with them will get you placed on hold for an hour and the call will suddenly drop. They are predatory, leeching of of people who don't have normal bank accounts. Their total fee for a withdrawal is $3.50 on top of whatever the ATM fee is and you can NOT withdraw more than $325 at a time. That's more than 1% in fees per withdrawal. I can not understand how a business model like NetSpend/Metabank is allowed to exist. I will never give them another dollar.

I imagine in about another year or so, we will be seeing commercials on TV saying

"... Did you or a loved one open a NetSpend/Meta Bank account between 2018 and 2022? If so, you may be entitled to great compensation..."

Don't do it. Regular banks are safe. Netspend is a trap.

Tip for consumers:
Exit the site

Products used:
Checking

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear you were not pleased with Netspend services. There are fees associated with our cards but we do have several options available. If you have any questions or concerns with your Netspend card, please email us at social@netspend.com so we can assist you.

Thank you,
Netspend

Thumbnail of user crystalc542
1 review
1 helpful vote
  • Send Message
July 29th, 2021

I have had my Netspend card for several years. The entire reason for getting the card is because of the 2 day earlier posting times for direct deposit. Over the years of having netspend, I have gone from getting my pay like clock work at 9pm Wednesday night (payday is actually Friday), to early hours Thursday morning, to now it randomly posting late Thursday night. The Times I have called about this issue, of course, Netspend blames my company though I know others who use different financial institutions who post their pay early DONT have this issue! This has caused me so many problems especially when setting up bills. Needless to say, I am SICK to death of Netspend and this BS! Just give me my f***ing money already!

Tip for consumers:
Don't bother with Netspend

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L. – NetSpend Rep

We're sorry to hear that your deposits haven't been arriving as early as expected.

Unfortunately, we don't have control over when deposits are sent to us. We post them when we get them, even if it is before the settlement date.

For questions about the direct deposit process, please email us at social@netspend.com.

Thank you,
Netspend

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From the business

NetSpend is a leading provider of reloadable prepaid cards and related financial services in the United States. We serve the estimated 68 million underbanked consumers who do not have a traditional bank account or who rely on alternative financial services. Our mission is to provide products and services that empower consumers with the convenience, security and freedom to be self-banked.

Since 1999, our products have helped more than 10 million consumers to make purchases, pay bills and manage their money without the need for a checking account or credit history.

Through our nationwide network of more than 70,000 distribution locations and 130,000 reload points, consumers can buy and reload NetSpend Prepaid Cards at neighborhood retailers, check cashers, convenience stores, grocers, pharmacies, insurance providers and tax preparers nationwide. In addition, our direct distribution channel reaches consumers beyond our store-based distributors. NetSpend is also a leading provider of corporate payroll card solutions that help employers offer all employees a direct deposit option and eliminate expenses associated with paper checks for employees and employers alike

Company Representative

Thumbnail of user travisv6
Eric L.
Response Team Supv.
Typically responds within 2 days

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