Walmart and American Express are collaborating to launch Bluebird, an alternative to debit and checking accounts, designed to help consumers better manage and control their everyday finances (view press release). Bluebird, available online at around 4,000 Walmart stores, offers users a way to manage everyday finances, with no minimum balance, monthly, or overdraft fees. The service which is built on the financial services provider’s Serve platform, includes a digital wallet, incorporating P2P payments, mobile app functionality, and the ability to control sub-accounts for friends and family from a phone.

Money can be added to the account through payroll direct deposit, remote cheque capture via the Bluebird mobile app, using cash at any Wal-Mart register, or by linking a checking, savings, or debit card.