Gift cards are prepaid debit cards that are preloaded with a certain amount of money. They are used for purchases at a retailer instead of using cash or credit card. Giving it out to people is a wonderful way of gift-giving while letting people know that you respect their choices.
They are ideal when you do not know what gifts to buy or when giving cash would seem inappropriate. You may give them during periods of celebrations like anniversaries, weddings, graduations, birthdays, Christmas, etc. They can be used for purchasing anything from groceries to clothing items and so much more.
There are two types of gift cards. These are open and closed-loop cards. While closed-loop ones can only be used at retailers that issued them, open-loop ones may be used anywhere. Closed-loop types are often associated with specific stores and brands while open looped cards are usually issued by financial institutions. You may read more about them in this article.
Oftentimes, you can only use them to buy items and they cannot be used for cash backs. The exceptions to these are those issued by financial institutions which are generic and allows for this.
Anyone may purchase gift vouchers at the face value of the card. This is the same amount preloaded on them. Cards with credit card brand names often attract a purchase fee that is separate from the amount on the voucher. These may also be re-used or reloaded when the money is used up.
Typically, gift vouchers are physical cards that have chips and can be swiped for payment much like a credit card. In more recent times, there are digital or e-gift cards that may be purchased online. These can be used in-store or to purchase items online.
How Printable Gift Cards Work
A printable gift card is easy to buy and it is also convenient to use. It works much like the physical one but is often purchased online instead of in-store. It has the benefit of convenience where you do not have to leave your home or work to get them. You can buy it right where you are on your computer or mobile phone.
They also have the advantage of buying them even at the last minute. For instance, you may have forgotten or did not have the time to buy a gift and the store is closed. You can simply go online and get a voucher instead of not giving that special person a gift.
Printable gift vouchers work by visiting a website where you can buy them. You will find lots of brands in a variety of fields or industries from groceries to foods, clothing, electronics, etc. You simply select the brand you want, input the desired value, customize and then print.
The value on the card can range from $5 to $500 depending on the brand and the kind of products they sell. Another thing about printed cards is that you have the opportunity to select an e-greeting card. This you can use to accompany your gift card.
You may also personalize it in a way you desire. This includes adding an image of the person you are sending it to. When printing your card, ensure that the printer is set to color and double-sided. The reason for this is so that the instructions for the cashier redemption are on the other side.
This may be useful for the recipient in the future for reference purposes. It is also recommended that you use card stock paper or white construction paper if you can. This heavy paper type helps it to feel just like a greeting card would. You can find the benefits of using printable gift cards here https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20141204175724-55647-physical-vs-digital-taking-a-look-into-square-s-new-gift-card-service/.
Conclusion
Gift cards make giving presents a lot easier. While you may use physical ones, the printable cards work just the same but with several advantages chief of which is convenience. You may as well buy them at any time even when stores are closed for the day or for the holidays.
It is good that you put some thought into your gift card. You can do just that with a printable card. You can customize it with a message and photo of the recipient.