Solo is a debit card, based around the switch system, but which tends to be available more easily, especially for younger people.
I first heard of it when I saw it on my new bank card a few years ago, though then very few places took it. Since I was only 16, I liked the idea of being able to use my card to be able to pay for things, without having to pass te financial checks for a proper switch card and of course not being able to get a credit card.
Initially very few places took it, but after a few months I noticed it being accepted all over the high street, together with the visa electron card that other banks offer. The real advantage of a solo card that I found though is that (unlike visa electron) it can be used online. This has allowed me to purchase many things over the internet which I would otherwise have not been able to do, or would have ahad to arrange to use someone else's credit card for.
Having debit card functions on your bank card can also come in handy if you want to get cash out when shopping, since you can generally use the cashback service in shops.
If you have the option of having a credit card instead, the advantages may not be so great. But the money comes straight out of your account, so if you don't like the idea of being in debt then it would be a good option. It seems to be coming as default with bank accounts, unlike switch cards where you might have to pass a check on your earnings. Of course if you already use switch then this is just it's poorer cousin!
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Advantages: Fairly widely accepted and you can pay for things with it Disadvantages: Marketed as idiot-proof but will allow you to go over your limit and be charged penalties
JL008 03.09.2004 (03.09.2004)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: somewhat helpful
Review of Solo
May 14th, 2001
very helpful by (11%):
helpful by (89%):
