By
eHow Personal Finance Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Go to the Green Dot website to apply for your card, or pick up a temporary at a Green Dot Network retailer location. Use the Green Dot website to find the Green Dot Network retailer closest to you. (See Resources below.)
Step2
Wait for your official card to arrive. This may take anywhere from 7 to 10 business days. If you get a temporary card from a Green Dot Network retailer, cut it up and use your official card from this point forward.
Step3
Fund your card by purchasing a MoneyPak at a Green Dot Network retailer and then calling the customer care number to confirm your purchase, or by enrolling in Green Dot's direct deposit program, so that your paycheck will be immediately available on your card without you doing anything else.
Step4
Use your card just as you would a debit card. You can use it to shop online, at the grocery store, mall, at the gas station or even to pay some bills. If the merchant or creditor accepts Visa and Mastercard, then you can use your Green Dot card.