The ones that you buy at CVS are reloadable cards. The cost is around 19.95 per card and when you reload them with more $$ there is also a fee which is about $5.00. I believe there is also a monthly fee involved but I am not sure about that. I have had very good luck with the bank cards. For 2.95 you cannot beat the price and you walk out the door with them ready to go. To me it is seems like a less expensive way to go. JMO!!