Plasma Center Prepaid Card Fees: Complete Breakdown by Center

Common Prepaid Card Fees

Most plasma centers pay via prepaid debit cards. Understanding the fee structure helps you keep more of your earnings.

Standard Fee Types

Fees by Plasma Center

Note: Fees may change. Verify current fees with your center or card materials.

CSL Plasma Card

• Card type: Prepaid Visa via Wirecard/BankCorp
• ATM withdrawal: $2.50 per transaction
• ATM balance inquiry: $0.50
• In-network ATMs: MoneyPass network (fee-free withdrawal)
• Inactivity fee: $2/month after 90 days of no activity
• Replacement card: $5

BioLife Plasma Card

• Card type: BioLife Debit Card
• ATM withdrawal: $2.25 per transaction
• ATM balance inquiry: $0.50
• In-network ATMs: Allpoint network (fee-free)
• Monthly fee: None with regular use
• Replacement card: $5

Grifols/Biomat Card

• Card type: Grifols prepaid card
• ATM withdrawal: $2.00 per transaction
• ATM balance inquiry: $0.50
• In-network ATMs: Varies by region
• Inactivity fee: May apply after extended non-use
• Replacement card: $7.50

Octapharma Plasma Card

• Card type: Octapharma prepaid debit
• ATM withdrawal: $2.50 per transaction
• ATM balance inquiry: $0.50
• In-network ATMs: MoneyPass network
• Monthly maintenance: $0 with activity
• Replacement card: $5

KEDPLASMA Card

• Card type: KEDPLASMA prepaid card
• ATM withdrawal: $2.00-2.50 per transaction
• In-network ATMs: Check card materials
• Fees: Similar to other centers

How to Avoid Prepaid Card Fees

Strategy 1: Cash Back at Stores

The most effective fee-free method:

• Make a small purchase at grocery store, Walmart, pharmacy
• Request cash back (usually up to $100-200)
• No fee from card issuer or store
• Combine with shopping you'd do anyway

Strategy 2: In-Network ATMs

Find ATMs that don't charge fees:

• MoneyPass: CSL, Octapharma - search moneypass.com
• Allpoint: BioLife - search allpointnetwork.com
• Common locations: Target, CVS, Walgreens, 7-Eleven
• Apps: Use ATM locator apps to find nearby options

Strategy 3: Direct Bank Transfer

Move money to your bank account:

• Link your bank account to the card (if supported)
• Transfer funds electronically
• May take 1-3 business days
• Some cards charge for this; others are free

Strategy 4: Use Card for Purchases

Skip cash entirely:

• Use card directly for groceries, gas, bills
• No ATM fees when you don't withdraw cash
• Add to payment apps (if supported)

Best Practices for Plasma Cards

Maximizing Your Money

1. Plan withdrawals: Take out larger amounts less frequently to reduce per-transaction fees
2. Check balance online: Never pay for ATM balance inquiries
3. Keep card active: Use at least monthly to avoid inactivity fees
4. Know your networks: Bookmark nearby fee-free ATM locations
5. Combine strategies: Cash back + direct purchases = minimal fees

Tracking Your Fees

• Review statements monthly
• Calculate total fees paid
• Adjust strategy if fees are high
• Report unauthorized charges immediately

Card Security

• Treat it like a debit card - protect your PIN
• Sign up for text/email alerts
• Report lost/stolen cards immediately
• Keep customer service number saved in phone

Common Mistakes That Cost Money

1. Using random ATMs: Out-of-network fees add up quickly
2. Small frequent withdrawals: Multiple fees vs. one larger withdrawal
3. Checking balance at ATM: Use app or website instead
4. Letting card sit inactive: Inactivity fees drain your balance
5. Not knowing your network: Free ATMs exist - find them
6. Ignoring cash back option: Stores often offer fee-free cash back
7. Not reading card terms: Surprises cost money

Fee Comparison Example

Next Steps Based on Your Plasma Donation Estimate

• Track visits: Log donation dates, bonuses, and pay to avoid missed incentives.
• Prepare properly: Hydration and protein intake can reduce deferrals.
• Plan payouts: Understand prepaid cards, transfer delays, and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do plasma center prepaid cards have fees?

Yes, most plasma center prepaid cards have fees for ATM withdrawals, balance inquiries, and sometimes monthly maintenance. ATM fees typically range from $2-3 per withdrawal, plus any fees charged by the ATM operator.

How can I avoid plasma card ATM fees?

Use the card for purchases with cash back, find in-network ATMs (MoneyPass, Allpoint), transfer funds to your bank account, or use the card directly for purchases instead of withdrawing cash.

Can I transfer money from my plasma card to my bank account?

Many plasma cards allow transfers to a linked bank account, though some charge a fee for this service. Check your specific card's terms. Some transfers are free while others cost $1-3.

What is the daily ATM withdrawal limit on plasma cards?

Daily ATM withdrawal limits vary by card but typically range from $300-500 per day. Daily purchase limits are usually higher, around $1,000-2,500. Check your specific card for exact limits.

Do plasma cards charge monthly fees?

Some plasma cards charge monthly maintenance fees if not used regularly, typically $2-5 per month. Most waive this fee if you donate regularly. Inactivity fees may also apply after several months of no use.

What happens if I lose my plasma prepaid card?

Report the lost card immediately through the center or card issuer's phone number. A replacement card can usually be issued for a fee of $5-10. Your balance is typically protected once reported.