The definition of a prepaid credit card is: A payment card (usually MasterCard, Maestro, Visa Electron or Amex), pre-loaded with your own money, which you can then use wherever the payment card is accepted, including on the internet and abroad.

A prepaid card is much like the gift cards available from most high street chains in the UK, however, prepaid cards have a much wider acceptance, and can be used internationally. They are the same as credit cards, but without the credit. The majority of UK prepaid card providers offer cards embossed with your own name, and some are even CHIP & PIN cards.

A prepaid card is not a credit facility, so you do not need to pass a credit check. Even if you have bad credit or CCJs you are guaranteed to be approved for a prepaid card. However, like most Money products, you are still required to provide details verifying your identity and address (for example a passport, driving licence or national identity card + utility bill or an official letter with your permanent or temporary UK address). Some of the UK prepaid card issuers will even verify your details online, and give you an instant approval. This is an electronic identity check, not a credit check!