More and more people around the world are earning their livings online, often from US-based companies and organizations. Programmers, photographers, online publishers and more have found opportunities online that may be more convenient and/or lucrative than working in a traditional office setting. Despite the relative weakening of the US dollar, earning paychecks, royalties and commissions in dollars from US companies is still an advantage for many living outside of the United States.



But getting paid can be complicated. International workers can wait up to 6 weeks before a US check arrives in the mail, and then wait some more for the check to clear. Wire transfers require the recipient to have a bank account, and usually charges high bank fees. There are a number of electronic funds transfer (EFT) services available that are faster, more convenient and less expensive than the traditional methods of checks and wire transfers, but the different EFT services have varying degrees of security.

The introduction of innovative payment methods has meant that publishers can receive their money more quickly and keep more of it. For example, online payments offer more flexibility and are more cost-effective for workers who do not have US bank accounts. These methods generally offer an online account or "wallet" where money can be deposited and spent. This is an excellent option for workers who may have a lot of online expenses and generally spend their earnings with participating suppliers. However, cashing out payments from online wallets can complicated and can become as cumbersome as using the traditional payment methods.

The financial crisis also has its impact. More than ever, workers want to know that the organizations they work for and the financial institutions behind them are strong enough to pay them. In the US, banks insure bank accounts with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Today, international workers can enjoy FDIC protection for their accounts if they select their payment method correctly.

Until today, only United States bank accounts have been insured by the FDIC, which are unattainable for most people living overseas from the US. A new, secure option is to get paid directly to co-branded prepaid debit cards such as MasterCard and Visa. The funds are transferred to the card accounts, and are accessible instantly online. As long as the issuing bank is based in the United States, all funds up to $100,000 loaded to a prepaid debit card is insured by the FDIC. Furthermore, the cards themselves offer cardholders additional protection against unauthorized purchases, such as MasterCard's Zero Liability program.

A prepaid card can be both more secure and more convenient. No more wasting time with trips to the bank. MasterCard and Visa are universally welcomed and the cardholder can use the card anywhere that debit Mastercard is accepted. If a card is lost or stolen, replacement cards are generally provided immediately, with the funds that had been loaded to the card intact.

In times of financial insecurity, international workers making their livings online can protect their paychecks by carefully selecting the way they get paid.