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This guide is for anyone trying to access US digital services, streaming services, or shopping sites from the US with a US virtual card and a valid US billing address.
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The core difference is that StatesCard is a virtual prepaid card while Halocard is a secured visa card with a real US BIN.
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StatesCard has a 2.3 Trustpilot score with many complaints about cards not working or funds being stuck.
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If you're looking for a payment method that consistently works across US merchants, Halocard is the more reliable option.
The reason you're looking into StatesCard is probably because you're trying to pay for US based services, such as HBO Max, as well as access to app stores, or make online purchases that require you to have the US billing address.
StatesCard might sound like the perfect solution, as it provides users with a virtual US card, allows you to load funds, and claims access to US platforms and streaming apps. However, once StatesCard reviews are looked at, things aren't quite as clear.
This guide is about to compare StatesCard and Halocard side by side, so you can see which one is better for transactions, payments, and real world access, especially when it comes to paying for US services.
StatesCard vs Halocard Virtual Card Comparison
| Category | Halocard | StatesCard |
|---|---|---|
| Card Type | Secured Visa credit card | Virtual prepaid card |
| Card Network | Visa | Visa |
| BIN Country | United States | Not publicly disclosed |
| Countries Available | 144 countries | Specific number not disclosed |
| Funding Methods | Credit card, debit card, stablecoins | Credit card, PayPal, bank transfers |
| Monthly Fee | From $12/month | $3.95/month |
| One Time Fee | None | $16.99 |
| FX Fee | 1.5% non-USD | Not disclosed |
| Multi-Card Support | Yes | Not disclosed |
| Spend Controls | Advanced | Basic |
| Best For | Reliable US payments | Basic access to US services |
Key Differences Between StatesCard and Halocard
Here's what sets StatesCard and Halocard apart.
Card Type and BIN
The first major difference is where the card is actually issued. Halocard is a US issued credit style card, meaning that it's BIN or bank identification number comes from the United States. That's important because US merchants, streaming platforms, and payment processors check for this.
StatesCard does also provide a US billing address but the issuing bank details are not clearly disclosed. This can create uncertainty when trying to pay for US based services, especially those that have strict fraud checks.
Credit Card vs Prepaid
Next, Halocard works like a secured credit card, whereas StatesCard is a prepaid card. This matters quite a bit, because many merchants reject prepaid cards, with some streaming services and subscription platforms blocking prepaid payment methods. Credit cards almost always have higher approval rates. So, if your goal is making smooth transactions, Halocard is likely the better option here.
Pricing Model
StatesCard fees:
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One time fee (activation fee): $16.99
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Monthly fee: $3.95/month
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Load fees (this is the big one):
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Credit card: 7.5% + $0.30 per load
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PayPal: 8.5% + $0.30 per load
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Bank transfers: typically ~5% + $0.30 per load
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Transaction fees: None advertised
Halocard fees:
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Monthly subscription:
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Core: $12/month
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Plus: $29/month
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Teams: $59/month
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Card funding fee:
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Credit/debit card: 5%
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Stablecoins: 0% (free)
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FX fee:
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1.5% on non-USD transactions
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0% on USD payments
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Card issuance: Included (no one time fee)
Funding and Loading Funds
StatesCard allows users to load funds through a variety of methods, including credit card, bank transfers, and PayPal. However, the fees are very high, starting at around 5% and going up to 8.5%, plus $0.30 per load.
On the other hand, Halocard can be loaded with debit and credit card, which incurs a 5% fee, or with stablecoins, which is totally free. If you're looking to load funds often, the total cost difference is quite noticeable.
Multi-Card and Spend Control
Another difference is that StatesCard is more basic in terms of multi card support, as you only get one virtual prepaid card that is tied to your account, very limited control over spend or risk management. Halocard on the other hand allows you to have multiple cards, each card can have its own limits, and you can instantly lock and control each card.
Service Reliability
At this time, Halocard has strong reviews and highly rated customer support, with users consistently reporting reliable payment processing. That said, StatesCard has a very low 2.3 Trustpilot score, with many users reporting that funds are stuck in accounts, cards aren't working, and there being no response from the support team.
Thoughts From Existing Users
In terms of thoughts from existing users, feedback about Halocard is very positive. Users generally note reliable payment processing, strong acceptance on US merchants, better control and security, increased privacy when shopping online, and easy accessibility worldwide. Some people do note that they aren't fans of the monthly subscription model, but that the fees are well worth it.
Then, if we look at StatesCard reviews, the pattern is quite consistent, with some users noting that the card worked perfectly at first, especially for streaming platforms like HBO Max.
However, there is much other feedback as well, including issues around the card not being usable for weeks or months at a time, not being able to spend remaining funds, and there being no reply from support. The reviews are extremely mixed, with many saying that StatesCard works for services like Hulu and Spotify, with many others reporting declined transaction, failed payments, or needing a VPN to even attempt access at using the card.
StatesCard vs Halocard: Why Halocard Is the Winning Option
As you're about to see, Halocard is the winning option for a variety of reasons.
US BIN Means Real Acceptance
The fact that Halocard is US issued means that it features a high acceptance rate. Platforms don't just check the billing address, but also where the card originates. This is why a virtual US card with a real United States BIN consistently performs better for US shopping.
Credit Card Structure Beats Prepaid
Halocard is a credit card, not a prepaid card. This means that it avoids many of the common rejection issues. StatesCard is a prepaid card, which means that it can run into problems with streaming services, subscriptions, and certain US-based services.
Reliability Matters More Than Price
The fact is that although the StatesCard cost looks lower up front, it really doesn't matter if you can't spend your funds, your account gets stuck, or your card stops working. Although Halocard may appear to cost more due to its monthly subscription cost, it is also much more reliable.
Better Control and Flexibility
There's also the simple fact that StatesCard is extremely limited in terms of control and flexibility, whereas Halocard provides you with multiple cards, custom spend limits, and much better privacy. While StatesCard is a real service, user feedback does raise concerns about reliability, especially around fund access, payments, and support response times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is StatesCard Legit?
While StatesCard is a real service, reviews are very mixed, with there being many complaints about service issues.
Why Is StatesCard Not Working?
Many users of StatesCard report issues that are tied to provider problems, declined transactions, or outages that prevent them from using their virtual card or accessing funds.
Does StatesCard Work With Streaming Services?
StatesCard can work with streaming services such as HBO Max, but results are very inconsistent. Some users report success, while many also experienced declined payments.
Do You Need a VPN With StatesCard?
A virtual US card and a VPN solve two different problems. The card handles the billing address check at checkout, while a VPN handles the IP geo-block that some US platforms enforce separately. Depending on the platform, you may need one, the other, both, or neither.
How Much Does StatesCard Cost?
StatesCard charges a one time fee of $16.99, a monthly fee of $3.95, and load fees that can reach up to 8.5% depending on how money is added.
Does StatesCard Work With Money Transfer Services?
No, StatesCard does not support money transfer platforms or cryptocurrency exchanges.
Is Halocard a Credit Card or Debit Card?
Halocard is a secured credit card, giving it better acceptance than prepaid debit cards across US merchants.
How To Compare Virtual Card Providers
When comparing any virtual card, focus on what actually affects your ability to pay:
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BIN country: Is it truly US-issued?
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Card type: Credit vs prepaid
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Fees: Look beyond the monthly subscription
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Reliability: Check real reviews
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Funding: How easy is it to load funds?
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Support: Can you get help when something breaks?
The bottom line is that if you are looking for a virtual card with strong US acceptance that works on US merchants and subscription services, along with easy accessibility, a transparent fee structure, and a high level of security, Halocard is the superior option.
Sources
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Halocard. Instant, Private & Secure Virtual Cards | Halocard
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StatesCard. StatesCard Virtual US Card - Pricing- Simple and Easy-to-use US Card and US Address, Simpler Pricing
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StatesCard. StatesCard - Virtual US Card & US Billing Address
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StatesCard. Get a Prepaid Visa Card For Non US Residents For Streaming Services
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Trustpilot. Statescard Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of statescard.com
Sources checked on April 17, 2026.
*Please see Halocard's Terms of Service or Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information. This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Halocard LLC or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
Halocard Virtual Cards

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How to get a virtual credit card in 3 simple steps

1. Sign-up with a phone
Sign up from your browser. No app download needed.

2. Quick identity check
Verify you're a real person in less than 3 minutes. No US residency required.

3. Add funds to your account
Use stablecoins, debit/credit card or ACH/SWIFT bank transfer (coming soon).

Your virtual card is ready.
That's it! Your virtual cards can now be used for online and in-person purchases anywhere in the world where Visa is accepted.