Walmart, American Express team up on prepaid card - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (WKOW)-- Wal-Mart Stores and American Express are teaming up on a reloadable prepaid card for shoppers.

The two companies announced Monday that Bluebird, which began during a pilot program last year, will have no minimum balance, monthly, annual, or overdraft fees. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and American Express Co. view the card as an alternate to debit and checking account use. They also say it will help customers better manage and control their finances.

The companies say Bluebird was built on feedback from consumers who said they were bothered by the rising fees related to checking accounts and debit services. Bluebird will be available next week online, and in more than 4,000 Wal-Mart stores.

Wal-Mart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, is the world's biggest retailer. American Express is based in New York.