Bluebird Loaded and Ready to Go

This is the second in a sponsored series of posts about Bluebird by American Express.

Now that my Bluebird account is all set up, card received and activated, money loaded and sub-account set for one child, we're ready to go!

I chose my third oldest child for the sub-account and set a daily spending limit for her. As soon as her card comes she will be ready to shop for school on her own. This gives her the freedom to choose as she wishes, but also instills a sense of responsibility in that she will have to budget herself and make wise choices.

As for me, I'll be making school purchases for the other kids as well as after-school snack goods and a list of meals and fixings for the first week back. Having this card rather than my usual is good because I've set a limit by loading only a set dollar amount to it that I will have to budget around, just like my daughter will. I'll have to make wise choices as well, in other words.

We'll be heading to Walmart to see what we can find for the first week back to school.

One of the biggest pluses for this card is one that I won't need myself, but is very useful for anyone who regularly overdraws their bank account. When you write a check using Bluebird, it must first be pre-authorized. The amount is then held from the account so that when the check is cashed, it's not possible to overdraw - therefore, no overdraft fees! I think it's a brilliant move for Bluebird.

A few other favorite aspects:

1. It's American Express. While Amex isn't as widely accepted, it is very widely known and what I believe to be a trustworthy company.

2. Mobile banking. The Bluebird mobile app has all sorts of capabilities that rival those of my own banking institution including the ability to deposit checks. I love that time-saver.

3. Sub-accounts. My kids are not very good at budgeting when it comes to using cash, so I'm really glad to have the sub-account feature so they can learn how to budget, bank and be more responsible with their money. I'll let you know how it goes!

*This series of posts is sponsored by Bluebird by American Express.