Having unanswered financial questions can give you a headache. Which institution offers the best benefits? Which bank account is ideal for your needs? How do you save money? Which credit card should you choose? and many other questions. Moreover, the market is constantly evolving and new options emerge and present themselves to consumers. That can be even more confusing! Fortunately, the Hardbacon team is here to help you make sound business decisions.
Among all the products and services offered on the market, you’ll find prepaid credit cards. This is an easy and attractive option, but it needs to be understood in order to be able to reap its full benefits. Prepaid cards are not traditional credit cards. In fact, the money available in the account is money the consumer already had and has deposited onto their card. This means that spending doesn’t require any money to be provided by credit, but rather by using funds that already belong to the cardholder. For this reason, applying for a prepaid credit card doesn’t trigger a credit check, so everyone is likely to be able to get one.
Prepaid credit cards have grown in popularity in Canada in recent years. This is not surprising, since they have many advantages. They work like a debit card, but with the advantages of a credit card. You can only spend the available funds (unlike a credit card), but you can shop online, rent a car, book travel, and more.
In fact, prepaid credit cards are a great option when you want to control your spending. Since the funds are yours, you have full control over how much is spent. In addition, the risk of theft is greatly reduced. In fact, once the balance is zero, the card can no longer be used and must be reloaded. Although prepaid credit cards are not new to the market, the product offering continues to increase!
Today, we’re interested in sharing information about the STACK Mastercard with you! It was launched in 2017, so it’s still quite new on the market. And it’s definitely the perfect prepaid credit card for you since it seems its creators have thought of everything! Here you will learn more about this brand new card’s various features.
What is STACK?
STACK is a Canadian financial technology company that was founded in 2017. Based in Toronto, the company has a partnership with People's Trust, a financial institution that holds more than $6.9 billion in assets.
STACK offers a prepaid credit card that is totally different from what was already offered on the market: the STACK Mastercard. As of this writing, this is probably the best prepaid card option available on the Canadian market.
The company recently entered the Quebec market after a warm reception by many consumers elsewhere in Canada. STACK is a prepaid Mastercard that doesn’t incur any annual fees and doesn’t charge conversion fees for foreign currency transactions. It's actually the perfect middle ground between a credit card and a debit card. Here's everything you need to know about this card, which has already delighted many Canadians.
- No annual fees
- No interest
- No conversion fees for foreign currency transactions
- No ATM withdrawal fees
- Accepted all over the world
- The rewards vary depending on the partner
How to open a STACK account
The procedures for applying for a new card are sometimes long and tedious. In order to provide you with as much information as possible, a member of the Hardbacon team has tested the STACK account opening procedure. And we found that it takes about two minutes to complete an application and open an account.
Just download the STACK mobile app and answer a few questions. There is no credit check! Therefore, you don’t have to provide your social insurance number. In fact, all you need to do is provide some basic information to prove your identity and send a supporting document that confirms your identity and your address. You can use your driving license, for example.
Once the application has been completed, you don’t have to wait to receive your card in the mail in order to start enjoying STACK’s various advantages. Thanks to the mobile application, you immediately have access to your virtual card directly on your cell phone. Additionally, if you have Apple Pay, you can add the card to your virtual wallet. So, as soon as you have deposited money into your account, you can start using your card. The available balance in your account is therefore your money, it isn’t credit. Later on, we will see how you can transfer money from your bank account to your STACK card, and vice versa.
Until you receive your physical card in the mail, there are certain limits that restrict your account. If you’re planning to go on a trip, it’s best to complete your application in advance to ensure that you can reap the most from your benefits.
| Limits while the physical card is not activated | |
| Maximum monthly spending limit | $1,000 |
| Monthly cumulative amount for direct deposits | $1,000 |
| Daily cumulative amount for direct deposits | $250 |
| Maximum daily amount per transaction at a single point of sale | $250 |
| Maximum monthly card-to-card transfer | $1,000 |
| Maximum daily card-to-card transfer | $250 |
Once your account has been created, don’t delete the STACK app! It’s a very useful tool. There, you can view your rewards and access free tools that will help you manage your money. Moreover, the application helps you track your expenses at all times.
You even get notifications whenever you spend, send, save or receive money with STACK. So you’ll never have any surprises and you’ll stay on top of your expenses.
Advantages of the STACK Mastercard prepaid credit card
There are many advantages to using the STACK Mastercard prepaid credit card. Here are the main ones:
No credit check
As mentioned before, this is a prepaid card. You must therefore deposit money into your STACK account in order to have funds available. Since no money is ever credited to you, no credit check is done. If you've had any credit problems in the past, you can still get a STACK Mastercard. However, since no credit check is performed and the available money is yours, you should know that your credit report isn’t influenced by your use of your card. So, if your goal is to improve your credit rating, there are traditional credit cards that are more suitable for this situation. You should consider that prepaid cards function similarly to a debit card, but with the benefits of a credit card.
Automatic savings system
You can set up an automatic savings system on your account. It’s up to you to choose your personal settings according to your means and expectations. The principle is quite simple, when you pay for something with your card, the amount can be rounded up to a maximum of 10 dollars above the initial price. For example, if a bill is $41 and you pay it with your card, the amount debited may be rounded up to $50. The nine dollars in surplus are then automatically set aside for saving. Thus, there is no need to think about saving money, it happens automatically.
Member-exclusive promotional offers
If you’re a fan of loyalty programs, you won’t be disappointed since STACK helps its members enjoy various rewards without requiring them to accumulate a certain amount of points. In fact, the company partners with more than 140 merchants with which you can take advantage of different promotions that vary over time.
First of all, there are rewards that are offered in the form of instant cash back. For example, during a limited period in the summer of 2021, you could get five dollars in cash back when shopping at Indigo. You basically get paid to use the card.
Subsequently, there are also discounts offered exclusively to STACK members. The offers can be particularly attractive and reach up to 50% off. Since promotions can vary, you should regularly check the mobile application. The different offers are also displayed on the STACK website, so take a look and start benefiting from the discounts.
Free ATM withdrawals
One particularly coveted advantage is the ability to make free ATM withdrawals, anywhere in the world! Your money is therefore accessible, no matter where you are. Since there are some places where it is particularly difficult to pay with anything other than in cash, this is a convenient, cost-free and easy-to-use option. Moreover, there are no fees for currency conversions generated during your withdrawals.
Please bear in mind that there may be charges levied by the ATM’s owner. This is still a good saving if you consider the fees charged by the various Canadian banks, which generally vary between two and seven dollars for withdrawals made abroad.
No fees for transfers
Similarly, there are no fees when you make money transfers. This makes it easy to send money to a loved one without having to pay additional fees. On your end, you can also add money to your balance without losing anything to service charges.
STACK travel
Members also get access to the exclusive STACK Travel platform, which enables them to book hotel rooms anywhere in the world and get a 20% discount. To benefit from this, the room must be reserved with the STACK credit card. Once the amount is invoiced, STACK deposits the rebate into your account within a maximum period of 80 days.
Unparalleled customer service
In the event of a problem or questions, it’s always easy to speak with an agent. There’s no branch to welcome you, but you always have access to support right at your fingertips. In fact, by using the STACK mobile application, you can chat with a staff member or even call customer service at a time that suits you best.
In addition, if you lose your card, you can freeze your account directly from your mobile application. This can be done quickly and easily, with no stress. Lastly, if there are any unauthorized transactions charged to your account, you won’t be held responsible. In fact, you benefit from zero liability protection on all fraudulent purchases and transactions.
The STACK prepaid card limits
Once your account is opened and you’ve received your card in the mail, there are certain limits that apply. It may seem like there are a lot of limits, but when you look at them one by one, they’re not all that restrictive. In fact, the only one that might be a problem is the maximum cumulative monthly ATM withdrawal amount, which is limited to $2,000. So, if you’re going on a trip, it’s best to plan your pocket money in advance. Your spending can add up quickly and the $ 2,000 limit could put you in a bind. It’s therefore a solution that can help you out, but it’s not the best option to rely on overall.
Although the benefits outweigh the limits, it’s important to be aware of them beforehand in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Here are STACK’s various limits. You can also find them on the card program’s website.
| STACK prepaid card limits | |
| Maximum daily combined spending and cash withdrawals | $5,000 |
| Maximum monthly cumulative amount at points-of-sale, including bill payments | $20,000 |
| Maximum monthly cumulative ATM withdrawal amount | $2,000 |
| Maximum monthly cumulative amount of top-ups (including Interac) | $20,000 |
| Maximum daily cumulative amount, direct deposit top-ups | $8,000 |
| Maximum daily cumulative ATM withdrawal amount | $1,000 |
| Maximum daily cumulative amount at points-of-sale, including bill payments | $5,000 |
| Maximum amount per Interac top-up | $3,000 |
| Maximum amount per ATM transaction | $500 |
| Maximum amount per single point-of-sale transaction, including bill payments | $2,500 |
| Maximum amount per single direct deposit top-up | $8,000 |
| Maximum amount per card-to-card transfer | $2,500 |
| Maximum daily cumulative amount per card-to-card transfer | $5,000 |
| Maximum daily cumulative amount of Interac top-ups | $4,000 |
| Maximum monthly number of Interac top-ups | 60 transactions |
| Maximum daily number of Interac top-ups | 10 transactions |
| Maximum daily number of point-of-sale transactions | 15 transactions |
| Maximum number of top-ups per day | 4 transactions |
| Maximum number of top-ups per month | 20 transactions |
| Maximum daily number of ATM transactions | 2 transactions |
| Maximum card balance/limit | $20,000 |
How to top up the STACK prepaid credit card
As you can see, you need to deposit money into your STACK card account in order to use it. There are several ways to do this. Here are a few:
Interac eTransfer
The easiest and fastest way to do this is by making an Interac eTransfer. All you have to do is add the email address linked to your STACK account into the recipient list of your traditional bank account. You then send money directly to your STACK account just like when you want to transfer money to someone. The turnaround times are very fast, so there’s never a problem if you need the funds as soon as possible.
Add STACK to your list of payees
In the same vein, you can add STACK to your bank account’s list of payees. So, to transfer money onto your card, all you have to do is make a payment. You can even schedule advance payments to control how much money you have.
Here’s a little savings tip if you want to reduce your daily expenses. You can use your STACK card only to pay your bills. You can schedule a recurring payment directly from your STACK balance and limit yourself to this amount to spend. This way, you’ll know exactly how much you’re spending and you’ll have more precise control over your cash outflows.
Payroll direct deposit
You can also have your payroll deposited directly into your STACK account. So, if you wish, you can just use your card without needing any additional accounts. You can even schedule recurring payments in your STACK account and thus reduce the risk of forgetting them and having late payments.
Cash deposit
In some places, such as at various Canada Post outlets, you can deposit money directly into your account. Just show up with the cash amount in hand. The clerk will take care of depositing the money into your account. It’s the ideal alternative to replace traditional bank tellers.
Direct deposit with the CRA
Do you receive direct deposits from the Canada Revenue Agency? You can add STACK as a direct deposit account. This can help you budget your tax return and other benefit payments.
STACK referrals
Referring others to the STACK Mastercard prepaid credit card can pay off. In fact, every referred user receives a $5 discount on their STACK account. If you share your link or exclusive code and someone opens an account, you’ll also receive a five-dollar rebate. If you have a large entourage, it can quickly pay off! Moreover, since STACK is new in Quebec, there are still few people who’ve had the chance to discover its many advantages. Would you like to be the bearer of good news?
Why choose the STACK card over another prepaid credit card or traditional credit card?
Choosing the ideal credit card takes a lot of thought. In order to make a smart choice that meets your expectations while matching your financial situation, we invite you to use Hardbacon’s credit card comparator. This is a free tool that gives you personalized suggestions.
When making your decision, there are several reasons that might prompt you to choose the STACK Mastercard prepaid credit card. Here’s why it’s ideal for you:
A comprehensive, easy-to-use offer
By getting the STACK prepaid card, you can carry out all of your financial transactions from a single account, no matter where you are in the world. You can then centralize your money, have greater control and even secure your funds.
Moreover, it’s easy to use and everything is accessible directly with your phone. An application can be completed in a few minutes and doesn’t require you to fill out lengthy documents. You get access to your account the same day you register.
Ideal for people who don’t have a credit file
If you have bad credit, or even no credit, you can still get the STACK card. In fact, since you must deposit money directly into the account, no credit check is carried out. Certain expenses, such as online purchases, often require the use of a credit card.
It can be difficult to get a card when your credit bureau score is negative, so a prepaid card is an ideal option.
This is the perfect opportunity for a student wanting to take advantage of the perks of a credit card, but without risking damage to their credit rating due to late payments. Moreover, if the student in question has not yet built their credit, they may be limited to $500 with a traditional card. With the STACK card, the user deposits the money and creates the limit themself. The maximum card balance is $20,000, so there’s much more room to meet the cardholder's needs.
A travel lovers' dream
If you travel regularly, you’re probably already familiar with currency conversion fees and how difficult it is to access your money when you’re out of the country. With STACK, there are no conversion fees, and you can use your card wherever Mastercard is accepted anywhere in the world.
Perfect for big savings
The card has no costs. Not when you join, nor when you make transactions or transfers, so there are no bad surprises!
Moreover, if you want to have access to your money at all times without ever losing anything in service fees, the STACK card is ideal for you. In addition, there are several promotional offers that are reserved exclusively for members. So you can save money easily.
The STACK credit card: the verdict
| STACK description | A Toronto-based company founded in 2017; a no-fee prepaid credit card. |
| Open a STACK account | Directly on the STACK mobile application; a virtual card is available directly after registration; the physical card will be sent by mail. |
| The STACK prepaid card’s advantages | No membership fees; Accepted where Mastercard is accepted worldwide; No credit check; Automatic savings system; Member-exclusive promotional offers; Free ATM withdrawals; No fees for transfers; Access to STACK Travel. |
| STACK’s limits | Limits imposed on the quantity of transactions; Limits imposed on the amount. |
| Reloading the account | Interac eTransfer; Add STACK to payees’ list; Payroll direct deposit; Cash deposit; CRA direct deposit. |
| Referral program | Get a $5 dollar deposit into your STACK account when you refer someone; The referred person also receives a $5 dollar deposit when opening their account. |
As you can see, the STACK Mastercard is the ideal prepaid credit card for you. In fact, it’s ideal for everyone! Joining is simple, fast and free. Members have access to their money, no matter where they are in the world, without ever incurring service fees. It doesn’t matter if you have good or bad credit, as anyone can get a STACK card. It’s undoubtedly the most complete and advantageous prepaid card available on the Canadian market!
However, don’t forget that it has certain limits in terms of the amount of transactions and its economic potential. In fact, although all Canadians who have reached the age of majority can get a STACK card regardless of their credit report, a prepaid card does not help to build or rebuild your credit.
Prepaid credit cards are not attractive to investors. Keep in mind that this is instead an ideal option to control your expenses and save on various service charges.
Apply for the STACK Mastercard prepaid credit card now!
Alternatives to the STACK credit card
If you think the STACK credit card is not for you, here are some alternatives that may be better for you.
Mogo Visa Platinum Prepaid Card
Use your Mogo Visa Platinum anywhere Visa is accepted. Plus, get access to many benefits like credit score checking, budget automation and even identity theft protection all for free.
Canada Post Cash Passport Mastercard
The Canada Post Cash Passport Mastercard is a prepaid credit card that you can use to withdraw cash, pay bills or make purchases at any business that accepts Mastercard.
The card is available to Canadians over the age of 18 who have a Canadian address and a valid social insurance number. You can apply for the card online, in person at a Canada Post outlet or by phone.
KOHO Mastercard® Prepaid Card (formerly KOHO Prepaid Visa)
This reloadable card has many of the same benefits as traditional credit cards and more. It allows you to pay your bills or any purchase that accepts Mastercard online or in-store. In addition to its many options, there is a premium version with even more benefits such as best price refund, no foreign conversion fees, and better cashback offers than other cards of the same type.
Compare the different prepaid credit cards and choose the one that suits your needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of a reloadable prepaid card?
A reloadable prepaid card is often a more convenient way to spend money. It's like a debit card but without the associated bank account. You can combine the benefits of today's most popular payment options – credit cards, debit cards and cash – into one easy-to-use card that lets you reload as often as you like.
Where can I buy prepaid credit cards?
There are a variety of places to buy prepaid credit cards. The best place to get the right card is online. Check out our list of the best prepaid credit cards.
How do Visa Prepaid cards work?
Visa Prepaid cards are an easy, convenient and affordable way to pay. You can use them anywhere credit cards are accepted, without needing a bank account or credit card.
Can I withdraw money from a Visa Prepaid card?
Prepaid cards can be used to withdraw money from certain ATMs. They are subject to a network fee.
How does a prepaid travel card work?
Prepaid travel cards are a great way to save money on airline tickets and other travel expenses. They are accepted worldwide depending on the network used, for example Visa, Mastercard or Amex.
Can I use a prepaid card on Amazon?
Yes, you can use a prepaid card on Amazon and most merchants accept Visa or Mastercard.
Does Uber accept prepaid credit cards?
Yes, Uber accepts prepaid credit/debit cards.
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About The Author: Katherine Parent
A veteran of traditional media, Katherine has many years of experience in the field of communications and marketing. Her passion for words led her to take a more content-oriented path. She is the co-founder of AKCENT Agency, which specializes in digital marketing and advertising campaigns.
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