At Envelope, we believe budgeting should be simple — but intentional. Because the truth is, easy isn’t always better when it comes to your money.
That’s why we’re launching a new optional feature called Auto-Lock — designed specifically for your physical card.
What is Auto-Lock?
Auto-Lock is our newest way to help you stay intentional with every dollar you swipe. When turned on, your physical card will:
Stay locked by default
Require you to unlock before each purchase
Automatically lock again after every swipe
In other words: a little extra friction, on purpose.
Why would I want this?
Because friction works.
We’ve all had that moment where a quick swipe turns into an impulse buy. Auto-Lock makes sure you pause, check your envelopes, and decide — instead of sliding into a purchase on autopilot.
That small pause is often the difference between “oops” and on budget.
Who’s it for?
Auto-Lock (for physical cards) is completely optional. It’s designed for:
Folks who want stronger guardrails around in-person spending
Budgeters who like the discipline of extra steps
Anyone who’s ever said, “I wish swiping my card were just a little harder”
If that’s you, Auto-Lock might be your new best friend.
How do I turn it on?
Auto-Lock can be enabled in your account settings
How do I unlock my cards?
When you enable Auto-lock, a quick-unlock button is added at the top of your Envelopes tab. This forces you to check your envelopes before using your physical card.
FAQ
Will I still be able to pay bills, like Netflix or Spotify?
This feature won't auto-lock your virtual card, which can be used for bills.
Am I forced to pick an envelope with enough funds before swiping my card?
No. However, this feature forces you to check your Envelopes tab and it's then up to you if you want to unlock and use your card.
Will every card swipe lock my partner's card too? (joint accounts)
Yes. All physical cards on your account get locked after every card swipe. The quick-unlock button at the top of the Envelopes tab will unlock all physical cards on the joint account. Each partner will have controls in their own app to unlock.
Can I use my physical card if I don't have access to my phone? (loss of cell-service, phone dies, is stolen, etc.)
No. This is intentional and stops someone who steals your physical card from using it without your phone. We suggest turning this feature off if you anticipate a loss of phone due to cell-service, battery loss, etc.
When can I use Auto-lock?
Auto-lock is enabled for all accounts and will be live on our upcoming app update. (Currently pending approval in Apple and Google Play Stores!)
What if I don't want to check my app every time I use my card?
We know this feature won’t be for everyone — and that’s the point. Some people want their cards always ready. Others want an extra layer of intentionality baked in.
With Auto-Lock, you choose.
Spend slower. Budget better. Friction on purpose.
Envelope is a fintech company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Pacific West Bank, Member FDIC. Your funds are FDIC insured up to $250,000 through Pacific West Bank, Member FDIC. Deposit insurance covers the failure of an insured bank. The Envelope Money Visa® Debit Card is issued by Pacific West Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used anywhere Visa cards are accepted.
*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 3.7% is effective as of 6/27/25. This is a variable rate and is subject to change after the account is opened based on the Federal Funds Rate. Fees could affect earnings on the account.