Getsby Blog Team | May 15, 2025
Google Ads is a go-to platform for both B2B and B2C marketing. It enables businesses to gain a competitive edge and increase brand exposure. Whether you run a business or are a professional advertiser, choosing the right payment method for the platform should be a priority.
While the standard options are debit and credit cards, virtual credit cards are becoming a go-to solution for people looking for security. These flexible payment methods can protect personal information and support budget management.
In this post, we’ll explain virtual credit cards (VCCs) and how they work and compare them to prepaid virtual cards so you can choose the best option for your needs.
What is a virtual credit card?
In its simplest form, a virtual credit card (VCC) is a digital payment tool in an app or digital wallet. Unlike traditional cards, there is no physical form, which means the card is easier to manage and there are fewer risks of security breaches.
Virtual credit cards are linked to your existing credit account, but you can also get virtual debit cards which link to your bank account. These cards often have unique numbers, CVVs and expiry dates, which adds an extra layer of anonymity for your transactions.
The benefits of VCCs for Google Ads
Google Ads is one of the best platforms for driving business growth, but many people struggle to manage their advertising budget effectively. While using a traditional credit or debit card can be convenient, VCCs offer unique benefits for both businesses and advertisers.
Enhanced security
Despite being the world’s largest search engine and a dominating presence on the internet, Google isn’t immune to security breaches. In fact, a recent Google Ads glitch exposed sensitive competitor data, highlighting the platform’s weaknesses.
Using a virtual credit card can decrease the risks of unauthorised charges or fraud, as your account will generate cards with a unique number.
Ad spend control
Some VCCs let you set ad spending limits, ensuring you don’t exceed budget. This feature can be invaluable if you’re managing multiple advertising campaigns and accounts. We all know how easy it is to overspend when using a traditional credit or debit card, but VCCs can lower those risks.
By setting limits, you can ensure the campaign doesn’t go over budget, which is vital for advertisers and businesses with limited funds.
Convenience
While the features of your card depend on the provider, most offer different numbers and the opportunity to generate instant cards. You can easily manage payments without worrying about waiting for a new card to arrive.
Many advertisers also find their advertising spend is easier to track, as they can allocate a different VCC for each account.
Geographic flexibility
Virtual cards can often work internationally, making them an excellent option for running campaigns in multiple countries. Opting for a provider that offers favourable FX fees can also mean you save money.
There’s also the option to set spending limits for different locations, but it depends on your card provider.
Potential drawbacks of VCCs:
- Billing Requirements: Google Ads requires a consistent payment method for automatic billing, and using a disposable virtual credit card might not meet the platform’s requirements.
- Payment Verification: The platform has strict verification measures, and some virtual credit cards might not pass the checks. However, it depends on your chosen provider, so make sure you check before signing up for an account.
- Limited Spending: Many people will see limited spending as a pro, but high-budget Google Ads campaigns that require frequent investment might suit traditional credit cards more.
- Refunds: Google Ads might issue a refund in certain cases, but using a virtual credit card might mean your account doesn’t get credited. You can usually avoid this by avoiding single-use cards.
- Risk of Account Suspension: The platform carefully monitors payment methods and account activity for signs of fraud or misuse. While many people can use virtual credit cards, lesser-known card providers might trigger fraud detection systems.
What’s the difference between a Virtual Credit Card and a Prepaid Virtual Card?
Using a VCC is more secure than using a traditional credit or debit card, but making a prepaid virtual card your primary payment method can offer even greater security. These cards are convenient ways to make online payments and manage your Google Ads account.
Let’s take a look at their unique features:
Seamless budgeting
When you choose a virtual prepaid card, you can control your spending limits completely. They don’t link to a credit account; you’ll need to preload them before spending.
However, this can be beneficial when managing strict budgets, as the cards prevent you from spending more than the available funds.
They’re for everyone
If you want to apply for a standard virtual credit card, you’ll still need to go through credit checks to determine your financial stability and affordability. Prepaid virtual cards don’t require any credit checks as you preload them.
They’re suitable for anyone and are more accessible than VCCs. Also, you won’t need to worry about your credit score temporarily lowering during a hard credit check.
Campaign management
Since virtual prepaid cards don’t link to an account, reconciling expenses is much easier, as is managing multiple campaigns and expenses without confusing budgets.
This simplifies campaign management and allows marketing agencies to provide a better client experience.
Fraud mitigation
Prepaid virtual cards are ideal for fraud protection because they’re not linked to any account. For example, even if someone manages to access the card, they can only take what’s already on there. Opting for a reputable provider also means you can receive that money back.
The drawbacks of prepaid virtual cards for Google Ads
Overall, using a prepaid virtual card for Google Ads is a wise decision if you want maximum budget control. However, there is one drawback to be aware of: Google Ads doesn’t accept prepaid cards for automatic payments.
Some businesses prefer automatic payments, which come out of their account once the ads have run and don’t require upfront payments. However, opting for this payment method also makes it much easier to exceed your budget.
While a prepaid virtual card cannot be used for automatic payments, manual payments are possible and offer more control over your budget.
How to use a Prepaid Virtual Card for Google Ads
Using a reloadable prepaid virtual card is a reliable payment method and a great way to control your Google Ads spending. Here’s how to add the card to your account and fund your marketing campaigns:
- Choose A Provider: When choosing a virtual prepaid card provider, assess which company aligns with your needs and look for advanced security features like tokenization and MasterCard 3D Secure 2.0.
- Load The Card: Preload your virtual prepaid card with the amount you’re willing to spend on Google Ads.
- Link It To Google Ads: Add the virtual prepaid card as a payment setting in your Google Ads account. Make sure the card details are accurate to avoid payment issues.
- Monitor Your Spending: Regularly review your Google Ads performance and spending. Reload the card as and when needed, or make changes to your campaigns for better results.
- Evaluate: Use the virtual card’s transaction history to determine campaign ROI.
Top tips for getting the most out of your prepaid virtual card
Using a prepaid card for advertising platforms lets you control your spending and manage multiple campaigns. Here are some top tips for getting the most out of your prepaid card:
- Split Accounts: Instead of using one prepaid card to manage the entire Google Ads account, allocating a card for each client or campaign makes tracking spending and monitoring performance levels easier.
- Define Budgets: Instead of loading a prepaid card to its maximum limit, think about what you’re trying to achieve and define the right budget for each campaign.
- Review Campaign Performance Combining strict budget control with performance analysis ensures your advertising dollars are being spent effectively.
FAQs
Which payment methods does Google Ads accept?
Google Ads accepts a range of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and some online payment services. However, it depends on your location, as some methods won’t be available in certain countries.
How do I add a payment method to my Google Ads account?
It’s easy to add a payment to Google Ads. Just head to the “Billing and payments” section of your Google Ads account and enter the payment method. Remember to set it as your preferred method to ensure the right card is charged.
When will I be charged for my Google Ads campaigns?
It depends on whether you’re making manual or automatic payments:
- Manual Payments: As soon as you add funds to your account, the platform will charge you. However, your campaigns will only spend what’s available.
- Automatic Payments: With automatic payments, the money will go out of your account every month or whichever billing cycle you agree to.
How can I resolve payment issues?
Contact your bank or card issuer to resolve any payment issues. You can also review your Google Ads account’s payment information for errors.
Are there any limits associated with the Getsby Virtual Green Card?
The Getsby Virtual Green Card has a € 0.99 monthly fee and a small activation charge. However, you can make free transactions and spend up to € 10.000 monthly or € 9.000 daily.
Simplify your ad campaigns with Getsby Prepaid Virtual Cards
While your credit card company might issue a VCC, prepaid cards are an effective way to monitor your spending and ensure maximum security. Using them to manage payments on Google Ads means you can focus on ad campaigns without worrying about fraudulent activities.
The Getsby Virtual Green Card is a reloadable prepaid payment solution that lasts for three years. After this time, the card will expire, and you’ll receive a new one. With low fees and advanced security features, it’s transforming how individuals and businesses manage marketing budgets.
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