A Colorado Springs woman thought she was getting speed and convenience when she paid close to $150 for an H&R Block Emerald Prepaid Master Card.
In just a few hours she was spending her tax refund.
But she later learned money she withdrew to make a utility payment was withdrawn not once... but twice.
And no one seemed to know where that second payment was.
"It was new this year so I wanted to try it because who doesn't want their money right away... but it's just not worth it," says Tammy Cisneros.
Cisneros says the utility company didn't get paid twice... but her statement shows two withdrawls for $218.95 were made from her card.
She says calls to H&R Block only led to more frustration. So after spending countless hours on the phone for close to 2 weeks she called me.
Cisneros says, "It was a waste because now I have money missing and with them telling me, it's going to take another 10 to 15 days... it's ridiculous. I could've waited 5 days for the check."
I called H&R Block and a spokesman apologized, returning the $218.95 to Tammy's card.
He says every once in awhile a file is duplicated, but they did remedy the situation.
The bottom line... it pays to be patient.
Yes, you can pay close to $150 and get your refund via a debit card... but beware the amount you withdraw from an atm may be limited... and it will cost you... $1.50 per withdrawl.
Accountants suggest e-filing ... and having your refund electronically deposited into your bank account. It typically takes 7 to ten days.... but you get every dime of your refund... without any fees whatsoever.