A prepaid mastercard (aka prepaid debit/credit card) is like a credit card, but instead of borrowing the money and paying it back later, you add your own money onto the card and can only spend what you have. It's similar to a pay as you go mobile phone. the card is also a secure way of carrying cash because it uses chip and pin, and it can be used anywhere you see the mastercard logo, not to mention online account access.

If you happen to be new to the country or have no means of ID, the prepaid debit card is great as you don't require any ID to get one. The only thing needed is a UK postal address so it can be delivered. The other great advantage is that no credit check is done, no proof of address needed and no bank account required.

Purchasing a prepaid card will cost roughly 9.99, and you buy it from the website or do a postal application and pay via cheque or a postal order. Once the prepaid credit is delivered to you, you will activate it once and retrieve your PIN; this can be done through the website or by telephone. You can also choose either the pay monthly option or pay as you go option. The first is for frequent users and has lower fees. The second is for infrequent users with slightly higher fees.

Quickly and simply load the prepaid debit card with money. Go to any Post Office, PayPoint outlet or UK bank. Even use you online and telephone banking service. Great additional features are having your benefits and/or wages paid straight on the prepaid credit card. Being a prepaid mastercard, you can use it anywhere in the world you see a mastercard symbol, meaning over 30 million locations and 1.5 million ATMs. The prepaid mastercard can be managed using the internet and via SMS text messaging.

On top of that, prepaid cards allow you to instantly transfer money to your friends and family, completely free of charge and anywhere in the world. To do so, just buy a additional companion card, send it your friend or family member and you can start sending them money whenever you want. This tool is useful for parents who have children at university, abroad, or just for everyday pocket money management.

So, in conclusion, a prepaid card is a good alternative to cash, cheques, travellers cheques and credit cards. They are a safe and convenient way of carrying money and won't get you into debt. The technology they offer is good, including full chip and pin security, online account access and sms text message control. You can use them internationally and transfer money to people you know for free. In particular they are an option for those who due to bad credit or lack of ID cannot get a bank account or credit card.

Marckous Wukalanski is a consumer services researcher, specializing in bank cards and personal finance. He recommends downloading a free 36 page guide called the 'Essential Guide To Your Money'. For more information, go to the prepaid card website.