Pre-Paid Cards
What is a Pre-paid card?
A prepaid card is a secure, reloadable card that allows care funding (such as Direct Payments or Personal Health Budgets) to be paid directly to you by a local authority or NHS body. You then use the card to pay for approved care-related costs like:
- Personal Assistant (PA) wages
- Invoices from care providers
- Equipment or services included in your care plan
Flexible Support
We understand that everyone’s needs are different. That’s why we can offer services alongside a pre-paid card:
Individual Service Funds
- Choice & Control
- In-house Brokerage Team
- IAG & Support
Payroll With Payment
- We Handle the Payroll
- Pre-Paid Card Hold The Funds
- We Make The Payments
Why DD payroll services?
Charity-owned, not-for-profit
Owned by Disability Direct, with any surplus reinvested to support disabled people and the care community – not shareholders.
Direct Payments specialists
Expert in PA and carer payroll, including irregular hours, variable funding, and flexible arrangements.
Trusted and experienced
Over 20 years’ experience working with individuals and local authorities to deliver reliable, compliant payroll.
Already a dD Payroll Customer?
There’s lots for you to read, watch and learn about being a Direct Payment Employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the card without using your payroll service?
Yes. The card can be used on its own or with our payroll and payment options.
Is it a bank account?
No—it’s a prepaid Mastercard. It can only be used up to the balance that’s been loaded.
Is it safe?
Yes. There’s no credit, no overdraft, and funds are protected for care-related use only.
Is your service UK-wide?
Yes—we support Direct Payment recipients and councils throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Can you help with budget management?
Yes! Our in-house brokerage team at Blue Sky Brokers can help you with this.
Can local authorities offer this to their residents?
Absolutely. We work with councils to provide prepaid cards and integrated support.
Can payments be made from the card?
Yes. You (or we) can pay PAs, HMRC, insurance or care providers directly from the card.