Since its launch in 2014 in France, the Nickel account has been growing in popularity and already has nearly three million customers. This account is accessible to low-income people, bank bans and those seeking discretion. Also, individuals who quickly want an account without going through a bank are interested.
As the Nickel account is not attached to a bank, many wonder how money is managed there. Before answering this question, we briefly present this account: its nature, its functioning, its opening, its offers. We will also share customer reviews of the Nickel account.
Nature and operation of Nickel account
Understanding what a Nickel account is and how it operates helps manage your money better. Here is a clear and concise overview.
What's the Nickel account?
The Nickel account is a simple and accessible banking solution, which can be opened in a few minutes by a buralist or online. It is managed by Electronic Payments Financial in collaboration with the Confédération des buralistes français.
How does a Nickel account work?
This account includes an IBAN, an immediate debit Mastercard, and several options to deposit or withdraw funds. Its safe operation, without discovery, is designed to avoid bank incidents. Each Nickel account includes:
- A bank account, financed either online or by depositing cash with a buralist or by transfer.
- An immediate flow Mastercard, with no possibility of discovery.
- A French Bank Identity Statement (BRI), allowing for transfers and withdrawals.
Open a Nickel account: all steps
Opening a Nickel account is easy and fast. Whether you're doing it online or with a buralist, follow these steps to start using your account.
Open an online account
Access the online form, provide identification and telephone number. Then get your validation code by SMS and go to a Nickel Point to finalize the process. This procedure is very quick:
- Access the online form.
- Fill in the requested information and attach your ID.
- Text the code to validate the request.
- Go to a tobacco office, buy your box and show the validation code: the buralist sends you the account references directly and sends a text message with the PIN code.
- After opening the account, report your mailing address within 15 days using the code received by SMS. To connect to your client space, use the validation code, then create a 6-digit security code for your future connections.
Open an account with a buralist
Go to a Point Nickel, buy the box including your Mastercard card, scan your ID, complete the form on the terminal of the buralist and get your RIB. The activation of your card is fast via SMS. Follow these steps:
- Find a Nickel partner tobacco office near you.
- Buy a box from the buralist, including the Mastercard to pay the annual fee.
- On the oralist's interactive terminal, scan your ID card, complete the form and validate.
- Ask for validation of your subscription to the buralist who will immediately deliver your RIB.
- Text the PIN code associated with your credit card.
Comparison of the various Nickel cards
Nickel offers several types of cards adapted to different needs. Discover the features of each card to choose the one that suits you best.
Comparison table of Nickel maps
Discover a comparison table of Nickel Classic, My Nickel, Nickel Chrome and Nickel Metal cards, their respective costs, insurance included and fees associated with international transactions.
| Card type | Annual fee | Assurances | Foreign expenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nickel Classic | 25€/year | No | 1€/withdrawal, 0.5€/payment |
| My Nickel | 10€/5 years + 25€/year | No | Same Classic |
| Nickel Chrome | 30€/year + 25€/year | Reduced costs | 0.5€/withdrawal, 0.3€/payment |
| Nickel Metal | 80€/year + 25€/year | Included | Free |
Services associated with Nickel account
The Nickel account offers several services to simplify the management of your money. Here is an overview of the main services available.
SMS Banking
Receive real-time notifications about your account movements via SMS. As a result, you always stay informed of your balance and your latest transactions.
Nickel Points
With over 7,500 Nickel Points in France, making deposits and cash withdrawals is simple and convenient. The first three withdrawals of the month are free.
Mobile payments via Apple Pay & Google Pay
All Nickel cards are compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay, facilitating secure and convenient mobile payments.
Customer feedback on the Nickel account
User reviews give a real overview of the experience with the Nickel account. Here's what they say.
Overall opinions and Trustpilot rating
The Nickel account gets an average rating of 3.2/5 on Trustpilot, based on over 15,000 reviews. In general, the simplicity and accessibility of the account are highlighted.
Examples of specific testimonies
Customers particularly appreciate the rapid opening and extensive Nickel Points network. Here are some specific opinions:
- Very satisfied with the rapid opening and associated services. The lack of hidden costs is significant. - Marc D.
- Essential for people with banking difficulties. The withdrawal points are numerous. - Sophie L.
- Foreign fees are more competitive than with my traditional bank. – Julien R.
Managing money in your Nickel account
Knowing who manages your money in a Nickel account is crucial. This section clarifies this point in full transparency.
For the self-employed, discover the benefits and limitations of the Nickel account for self-employed entrepreneurs can be crucial to properly managing their finances.
Role of Electronic Payment Financial
The Electronic Payments Financial, approved by the CPRA, manages the funds of the Nickel accounts. It ensures that your deposits are secured.
Partnership with Crédit Mutuel Arkéa
Funds deposited into the accounts Nickel are placed in an account at Crédit Mutuel Arkéa. This partnership ensures that your funds are protected by a stable and reliable financial institution.
Safety and regulation
Funds from the Nickel accounts are in accordance with the PCRA regulations. Although these accounts do not allow for traditional banking services such as checkbooks, the payment services offered are highly supervised.
You want to know who's behind Nickel Account? I'm telling you everything, without taboo.
Do you have any questions about the Nickel account? Here are the answers to the most frequent questions.
What is the annual cost of a Nickel account?
The Nickel account costs 20€ per year for the basic formula. The other cards have an additional fee detailed in the ‘Comparison of Cards' section.
What are the deposit and withdrawal options?
You can deposit funds online via bank or cash transfer to a partner buralist. Withdrawals can be made in Nickel Points with a maximum of three free withdrawals per month.
What are the customer reviews on the Nickel account?
Opinions are divided, but a majority appreciates ease of opening and reduced fees. Overall satisfaction is reflected in an average score of 3.2/5 on Trustpilot.
In conclusion, the Nickel account is distinguished by its accessibility, simplicity of opening and reduced costs. Its management by reliable institutions such as Electronic Payment Financial and Credit Mutuel Arkéa ensures the security of the funds deposited. Whether it is for individuals with banking difficulties or those seeking a fast and reliable alternative, the Nickel account offers an option interesting and credible.