O2 Wallet

[zensean]

The reason I am trying to use O2 wallet is to be able to buy apps from the Windows Marketplace (I don't have a Credit card or a Visa debit card)

The problem is, the only way I can load money onto O2 wallet is either by using a Credit card, Visa/Master card debit card or by using the the Physical O2 Wallet visa card.

Since I obviously don't have the former I decide to get the O2 wallet card, when suddenly a problem - I can't order one without having money already in the account!

So I ask you, what is the point of this service? I can't load money from a bank account, Maestro,switch/solo debit cards and if I had a Credit card or a Visa Debit card in the first place I wouldn't need to use O2 wallet.

Is there some sort of fundemental method that has gone completely over my head, or is this some sort of idiotic middle-man service that provides no advantages other than giving O2 money away for no reason?

I've read somewhere that maestro is being added and accepted somewhere down the line, but I'll believe that when O2 deliver the Windows Phone app they promised in 2010. 

[Anonymax Level 16: Talkative · Accepted solution]

Three ways to get around this problem:

Firstly - any friends who have a Visa debit card? Get them to register for a wallet, load £5, money message you - then refund them with a money message once you've got your O2 Money Physical card.

Secondly - Similar to above - find a friend who already has the wallet who can send you the money message and return the money once you get your card.

Finally - call O2 Wallet customer services (10202 free from O2 phone, or 0844 701 0202 from any other phone). Tell them you wish to order a physical card for your wallet but don't have a debit card and don't know anyone else with a wallet. They'll find a way to help you get the card.

[perksie Level 58: Overseer]

Anyone in the UK can open a basic bank account and often with a debit card, so it may help to do this first, then if you want a prepaid card like the O2 Wallet it's easy to manage, more here:

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/basic-bank-accounts

The two suggested accounts both offer debit cards, no credit checks are made only a proof of identity check.

These can be a good way to start building a credit history.

[Gorki]

Or maybe a better solution is to look at other prepaid cards that let you top-up directly from your bank account.

O2 have not shown any real effort in supporting the Windows Phone platform with their apps, so why not return the favour.

[Croftetta]

RBS do a basic account with no frills and you can get a debit card!