[knight_shadow]

Originally Posted by sigmadiva

I only have a personal working knowledge of the banking industry, but I *thought* it was easier to get an account at a credit union vs. a bank.

Also, personally I'm all for direct deposit - faster, easier to manage, and safer, IMO.

You have to be a "member" of a certain group in order to use a CU, though (ex. teacher's union, service member, etc). It may be easier than getting accounts at the big banks, but not necessarily easy. Also, many people who choose not to get accounts do so because they don't trust financial institutions.

I have always seen the option to get money on a prepaid card, but never a requirement.