Let’s talk about True money and its benefits. Please note I also have a long term visa and Thai bank account so I have an ‘advanced account’ with True Money.
Process
1) apply for an account using the app. You need a Thai phone number as everything is based on this. Any Thai carrier works it doesn’t have to be True.
2) once your advanced account is approved you can also get a virtual prepaid mastercard generated in the app. Useful
3) you can top up via bank transfer, cash at 7-11 or at a true money kiosk at the true shops in the mall.
Spending
1) can pay any business or individual with QR code payments. The so called ‘Scan’. Very convenient and no need to carry coins etc
2) utility bills can also be paid along with topping up your phone etc
3) can use with Grab. There is pre built integration between the apps so the transactions come out of your account. No more foreign credit card fees or drivers not having cash change
4) the prepaid Mastercard has many uses such as Bolt or online shopping
5) you also have your own QR code to receive money from other peoples bank accounts
6) can withdraw money to your Thai bank account but I haven’t tried that yet.
Overall what this allows me to do is keep my bank account ‘clean’ for immigration purposes without a large number of small transactions.
TLDR : Answer Summary
This discussion provides insights into the benefits of using True Money, particularly for expats in Thailand with long-term visas. The app allows users to create an account using a Thai phone number and provides services like a virtual prepaid Mastercard. Key features include topping up via various methods (bank transfer, cash at 7-11), making payments using QR codes, and integration with local services like Grab. Users appreciate it for keeping their bank accounts clean, enabling convenient payments without cash, and giving access to discounts. However, some users express concerns about the limited options for topping up from abroad and the overall necessity of the app compared to traditional banking.
