What financial product allows you to spend money before it is available in your account?

The financial product that allows you to spend money before it is available in your account is an overdraft. An overdraft is a facility offered by banks that permits you to withdraw more money than you have in your checking account, up to a certain limit. This essentially provides a short-term loan from the bank, allowing you to cover expenses even when your account balance is zero or negative.

This type of product is particularly useful in situations where unexpected expenses arise, enabling individuals to maintain cash flow without waiting for their next deposit. However, it’s important to understand that using an overdraft may come with fees or interest charges, depending on the bank's terms.

In contrast, other options like a prepaid card require funds to be loaded onto them beforehand, a debit card uses the available balance in one’s bank account directly, and a credit card allows users to borrow money up to a credit limit, which is a different mechanism altogether from an overdraft.