If you have ever considered purchasing a gift credit card, chances are you have a few questions. To help you out, we have noted some of the most common FAQ’s that people have when buying these types of cards.

Where can I buy a gift credit card?

These cards are purchased one of three ways. You can buy them in person at one of the millions of locations that carry them including financial institutions, variety stores and department stores. You can also purchase them at several online retailers like Amazon.com. Or you can purchase them directly from card issuers like Visa, Mastercard and American Express through their online store.

How do I use my gift credit card?

These types of cards are used in the same fashion as a regular debit card. You simply use your card to pay for your purchase by swiping it at the cash terminal. Be sure you know your card balance so you don’t get caught short.

Can I use my card anywhere?

You can use your prepaid card anywhere that major credit cards are accepted. This includes in-person retail stores as well as online shopping and virtual malls.

Does my card expire?

Yes. Each gift card has an expiry date. You can continue to use your card until the funds are depleted or you reach the expiry date on your card. If the card expires and you have not used all of the available funds, contact your card issuer about how to access the remaining balance.

Can I return something that I bought with my prepaid card?

Yes. But be prepared to show the retailer the card you made the purchase with. For this reason, it is a good idea to keep cards that have expired. In most cases, the amount refunded will be put back onto your card.


What if I lose my gift credit card?

Not to worry. Most card issuers have a liability policy in place that will prevent you from being responsible for purchases made on a lost or stolen card.

Prepaid cards are a great alternative to a regular credit card. They are easier to be get, handy to have and are a fantastic gift idea for students.

Originally posted 2009-04-23 15:41:13.

Prepaid credit cards can really come in handy – especially if you have poor credit. For instance, have you ever tried to rent a car or book a hotel room only to learn that you need a credit card to do it?

If you are a person with poor or just plain bad credit, a prepaid credit card may be a lifesaver. These credit cards are issued by the three major credit card companies, Visa, Mastercard and American Express. They are just like regular cards but with one main difference.

Prepaid credit cards are actually more like gift cards. You can load money onto the card and then use it at your favorite stores and restaurants just like a regular credit card. The money you spend is subtracted from the amount of money you deposited onto the card.

So for example, if you loaded $500 onto your prepaid credit card and then spent $100 on shoes, your remaining balance on the card would be $400. Once you have spent that $400, you would need to deposit more money onto the card.

One of the main advantages to using a prepaid credit card, is you don’t have to think about due dates, late payments or interest. None of these factors apply to prepaid cards.

There are some fees to be mindful of if you are considering a prepaid card. Most cards have an activation fee as well as a small monthly fee. Some may also charge fees for things like withdrawing cash or checking your balance. Be sure to get all the information about extra fees.

Prepaid credit cards are a great solution for students of all ages because parents are able to control the amount of money being put on the card. This helps teach kids the value of a dollar and how to spend wisely.

So if your credit is not in the best condition, a prepaid credit card may be just what you are looking for. You can be approved for this type of card no matter what your credit history is and these cards do not influence your credit score.

Originally posted 2009-03-09 16:22:12.