Reply #20: I'd guess it's mainly an option for those who don't have checking accounts for direct deposit

[gmoney]

Rather than WM printing loads of paper checks that employees have to take to some usurious check cashing joint, where they'll pay a steep percentage of the face value just to cash the check, this would be more convenient for both parties.

I'm guessing if these cards do have some sort of fees, they're lower than check cashing joints or "payday lenders" charge, plus funds would be available immediately.

I kind of think it's a non-issue, unless WM is doing away with the direct deposit option entirely, or they get to the point of paying in company scrip.

Also, I think the low wages at WM would be what "disincentivizes" savings among these employees, not the manner in which they get paid.

But yeah, if it's just a matter of swiping the card, I'm sure that encourages impulse spending and not being able to keep track of how much is in the account. Also wonder how many landlords accept debit cards?