Why is it different from normal debit or credit cards?
The UNISON Prepaid Plus MasterCard is not a debit card or a credit card. Unlike a debit card, it is not linked to a bank account. And unlike a credit card, it does not give access to a line of credit. It is a prepaid card that you load up with money. Then each time you use the card the amount of your purchase is deducted from your balance. So there’s no worrying about interest, and you cannot go beyond the budget you have set.
back to top

Can anyone have a UNISON Prepaid Plus card?
The UNISON Prepaid Plus card is available to all UNISON members aged 18 and over who are UK residents (secondary cardholders may be aged 13 and over). You do not need a bank account or credit history.
back to top

How do I load money onto my card?
The most convenient and cost-effective way to load money onto your card is to set up a monthly direct debit from your bank account. To do this simply call 0800 107 8065. Alternatively you can load using a debit card at www.UNISONprepaid.com. You can also load your card with cash at most Payzone outlets.
back to top

What do I do when the money on my card runs out?
When your funds are running low or at zero, you can reload or ‘top-up’ your card by clicking on the login button above. Alternatively you can load your card with cash at most Payzone locations. If your balance remains zero you will not be able to use the card or enjoy its added benefits.
back to top

When is my money available?
It depends how you’ve loaded your card. Payzone top-ups are available instantly. Debit card top-ups take just minutes and direct debits from your bank take 3 to 4 working days. You can see if your money is available to spend by checking your balance free of charge by clicking on the login button above.
back to top

What happens if my card is lost or stolen?
If you lose your UNISON Prepaid Plus card or it is stolen or you suspect it has been used by someone else, you must report it as soon as you can by calling the 24-hour helpline on 0203 227 4849. Your card will then be cancelled and you will be issued with a replacement card for which there is a £5 fee.
back to top

How do I share money with a relative abroad?
All you need is a secondary card which you can send to a family member or friend anywhere in the world. You can then share money from your primary card to their card any time. See Can I take out an additional card? for details.
back to top

What about security?
You should treat your UNISON Prepaid Plus card like cash. Keep it in a safe place and do not let anyone else use it. You must keep your PIN secret at all times. Do not write it down or reveal it to anyone.
back to top

Can I take out an additional card?
Yes. You can order a secondary card that will be linked to your primary card. This is ideal for sharing money with family members anywhere in the world, or to give your teenager an allowance. The secondary card costs £10. You can then share funds from your primary card with the secondary card whenever needed. There is a charge of 3% of the transaction amount for card-to-card sharing and you can have up to £3,000 on each card. You can order a secondary card (once you have activated your primary card) by calling us on 0800 107 8065.
back to top

Can I use my UNISON Prepaid Plus card abroad?
Yes. You can use it anywhere in the world that accepts MasterCard cards and there are no fees when you buy something. You can also withdraw money from cash machines in local currency for which there is a £2.00 charge. Don’t forget, if you have a family member travelling abroad and you want to share money with them regularly, all you need is a secondary card.
back to top

How do I check my card balance?
You can check your balance free by clicking on the login button above. Alternatively call 0845 026 1105. There is a 25p fee for balance enquiries by phone which is charged directly to your card.
back to top

What if my monthly direct debit is not enough?
If you’ve chosen to load your card by monthly direct debit and you find the amount of the direct debit is not enough to pay for the things you need, you can increase it by calling 0845 026 1105. You can also top-up your card anytime at www.UNISONprepaid.com using your debit card. Alternatively you can load it with cash at most Payzone locations.
back to top

Can I change my PIN?
Yes. If you find it hard to remember your PIN, you can choose a more memorable one. You can change your PIN at any cash machine displaying the MasterCard acceptance mark.
back to top