You cannot transfer money directly from a prepaid card to a bank account
Prepaid cards and bank accounts are separate financial products. Money sitting on a prepaid card stays there until you spend it, withdraw it as cash, or move it out through a specific method. There is no direct transfer button between the two.
The methods that work depend on what kind of prepaid card you have, whether it is linked to a bank account, and what the card issuer allows. Some prepaid cards offer no way to move money out at all—they are designed for spending only. Others give you several options, each with different timelines and costs.
Key Takeaways
- Most prepaid cards do not allow direct transfers to bank accounts; you must withdraw cash or use a third-party service.
- ATM withdrawal is the simplest method but may charge a fee per transaction, and you handle physical cash.
- Some prepaid card issuers offer free transfers to linked bank accounts, but this feature is not standard across all cards.
- Peer-to-peer payment apps like PayPal or Venmo can move money from a prepaid card to your bank account, though fees and timing vary.
- Check your card's terms or call the issuer's customer service to confirm which methods are available for your specific card.
Withdrawing cash at an ATM and depositing it yourself
This is the most straightforward method and works with nearly every prepaid card. You use the card at an ATM to withdraw cash, then deposit that cash into your bank account at a branch, ATM, or through mobile deposit if your bank offers it.
The catch is fees. Many prepaid card issuers charge $2 to $3 per ATM withdrawal, and some charge more. If you withdraw $500, you might pay $3 to $6 depending on the card. Your bank may also charge a fee for deposits, though most do not. Mobile deposit (photographing a check or cash deposit through your bank's app) is usually free, but not all banks or prepaid cards support it for cash deposits.
Timing is immediate—you have the cash in hand and can deposit it the same day. The money then takes one to two business days to clear in your bank account, depending on your bank's processing schedule.
Checking if your prepaid card issuer offers direct transfers
Some prepaid card companies, particularly those tied to payroll or government benefits, allow you to link a bank account and transfer money directly. NetSpend, Chime, and some Visa prepaid cards offer this feature. The transfer usually takes one to three business days and is free.
To learn about your card supports this, log into your online account or mobile app and look for a "Transfer" or "Move Money" option. If you do not see one, call the customer service number on the back of your card. Ask specifically: "Can I transfer money from this prepaid card to a linked bank account?" They will tell you yes or no, and if yes, they will walk you through linking your account.
You will need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up a linked transfer. These appear on a check or in your bank's online portal. The issuer will verify the account by depositing small test amounts (usually under $1) and asking you to confirm them—this takes a few days.
Using a peer-to-peer payment app
Apps like PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash, and Google Pay let you add a prepaid card as a payment method, then transfer money to a linked bank account. The process is: add your prepaid card to the app, transfer money from the card to the app's balance, then transfer from the app to your bank account.
Fees vary. PayPal charges 1.76% plus $0.26 per transfer if you use a debit card (including prepaid cards), though some transfers are free depending on your account type. Venmo charges 1% for instant transfers to a bank account and is free for standard transfers (one to three business days). Square Cash and Google Pay have different fee structures depending on the transfer speed you choose.
This method works well if you already use one of these apps, but it adds an extra step and may cost more than a direct ATM withdrawal. It is most useful if you want to avoid handling cash or if your prepaid card does not work at ATMs in your area.
What to do if your prepaid card has no transfer option
Some prepaid cards—particularly single-use cards, gift cards, or cards issued by smaller retailers—do not allow transfers or linked accounts. Your only option is to spend the money or withdraw it as cash.
If you need the money in your bank account and cannot transfer it, withdraw cash at an ATM (if the card allows it) and deposit it. If the card does not work at ATMs, you can spend it on purchases and use the cash you would have spent elsewhere to deposit into your bank account instead. This is slower and less direct, but it moves the value.
Some retailers also allow you to get cash back when you use the card to make a purchase, even if you buy something small. Ask the cashier whether they offer cash back on prepaid card transactions.
Fees to watch for
Prepaid card issuers charge different fees depending on the method you use. ATM withdrawals typically cost $2 to $3 per transaction. Direct transfers to a linked bank account are usually free. Peer-to-peer apps charge a percentage of the transfer amount or a flat fee, ranging from free to 3% depending on the app and transfer speed.
Your bank may also charge fees for deposits, though most do not charge for cash deposits made in person or through ATM. Mobile deposit is almost always free. Check your prepaid card's fee schedule (usually available on the issuer's website or in your account settings) and your bank's deposit policies before you move money.
If you move money frequently, the fees add up. A $500 transfer via ATM withdrawal costs $3 to $6. The same transfer via a peer-to-peer app might cost $8 to $15. Direct transfer from the card issuer costs nothing. Choose the method that fits your situation and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer money from a prepaid card to a savings account instead of a checking account?
Yes. The transfer method does not change based on account type. When you link your bank account or set up a peer-to-peer transfer, you can choose which account to send the money to. Make sure you have the correct routing number and account number for your savings account before you start.
How long does it take to transfer money from a prepaid card to a bank account?
It depends on the method. ATM cash withdrawal is instant, but the deposit takes one to two business days to clear. Direct transfers from the card issuer take one to three business days. Peer-to-peer apps vary: instant transfers cost more and take minutes to hours, while standard transfers take one to three business days and are usually free or cheaper.
What if I do not know my bank's routing number?
You can find it on a check (it is the first nine-digit number at the bottom left), in your bank's online portal or mobile app, or by calling your bank's customer service line. Your bank's website usually has a "Find Your Routing Number" page. Have this information ready before you start linking accounts.
Can I transfer money from a prepaid card if it is not in my name?
No. Transfers require the cardholder's identity to match the bank account holder's identity. If the prepaid card is in someone else's name, only that person can transfer the money. If you received a prepaid card as a gift, you may be able to spend it or withdraw cash, but you cannot move it to your own bank account.
What happens if my prepaid card expires before I transfer the money?
The money does not disappear, but you lose the ability to use that card to access it. Contact the card issuer immediately. Many issuers will issue a replacement card with the same balance, or they may allow you to request a check or direct deposit of the remaining balance. Act quickly—some issuers have time limits for retrieving funds from expired cards.