Learn more about the prepaid Visa RushCard

By Jeremy Simon

You've already got Def Jam albums in your CD collection and Phat Farm clothing in your closet.  How about having a little something from Russell Simmons in your wallet, too?

With the Prepaid Visa RushCard, now you can.  This prepaid card was developed by entrepreneur Russell Simmons (nicknamed "Rush"), co-founder of hip-hop record label Def Jam and creator of urban fashion line Phat Farm, to allow anyone to qualify for plastic that comes without some of the dangers of credit cards.

RushCard holders will not have to worry about incurring the costly penalties, high interest rates and potential for debt that can come with careless use of a credit card.  But, with the ability to use the RushCard anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, they will still appreciate the freedom of plastic, including the ability to pay bills online or over the phone.

The Prepaid Visa RushCard only lets cardholders spend as much money as they put on the card.  It also eliminates expensive check cashing fees or fears of nonsufficient fund, overdraft or bounced check fees. 

Instead, the RushCard offers free money loading with direct deposit of some or all of a paycheck or government benefits, as well as your tax refund.  Money can also be instantly loaded onto the RushCard at tens of thousands of easily accessible MoneyGram and CheckFree locations -- including Wal-Mart.  Meanwhile, transferring money to the RushCard is free with PayPal.

RushCard users who want to get some quick cash can visit over 855,000 ATMs across the globe and type in a secure PIN number, paying just $1.95 for cash withdrawals at ATMs anywhere in the U.S.

Keeping up with how much money is on a Prepaid Visa RushCard is simple, since activity status and card balances can be checked at any time using the phone or Internet.  Even, better the 24/7 customer service is free.

While consumers are saving money with their RushCard, they can also earn money each time they refer a friend who is approved for their own RushCard.

Unlike some other cards, the Prepaid Visa RushCard charges no annual or monthly fees.  Instead, cardholders just pay a one-time activation fee of $19.95.  Meanwhile, the fee per purchase when using the RushCard is one dollar, for a total of up to $10 a month -- all added purchases after $10 is reached are free. 

Separately, if no money is loaded onto the RushCard and no purchases or ATM transactions are made within 60 days, the inactivity fee is $2.95.  

Since everyone if eligible to apply for the Prepaid Visa RushCard, with no credit check or employment verification necessary, consumers should consider the RushCard if they want the financial empowerment provided by plastic without the fear of getting turned down for a credit card or falling into debt.

Published: March 2, 2007

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