Are Bluebird checking accounts legitimate?

Bluebird, an American Express branded prepaid debit card, is not the same as a traditional checking account, but it is a legitimate alternative to an actual checking account. It also provides many of the same features as a traditional checking account, according to the Bluebird website.

According to the Bluebird website, some features that function like a traditional checking account include the ability to write checks, mobile check deposit, a routing and account number for direct deposit and the ability to pay bills that require a bank account for electronic payment. Members can add family sub-accounts and start a SetAside account that functions like a savings account with the available account management tools.