No, it's not a bank.. here is the process.. You register for membership via paybycash.. it brings you to their website, you select western union.. and it prints out a sample form with all the information you need. Take this form to your local western union-able location (most grocery stores at the customer service desks for example my town's Safeway, and Rite Aid). They will have a quick collect form.. that is the exact same as the sample one you have. Fill it out, and pay with cash, and within a few hours you will be a member. Note it is not just 7.49 it ends up being over 20 dollars after the fees the store and western union have. I have used it before, recently, and payed 20.98. Best of luck, but I would suggest something cheaper such as paypal or debit/credit methods. Also if you have a target nearby buy the new pre-paid game cards.