Penny Auctions Canada - Gift Cards Canada - Varieties of Gift Cards and How They Work
Gift cards often resemble a credit card or display a particular theme on a credit card sized plastic card. The card is recognized through a specific number or code and can be used by anybody. They are backed by an on-line electronic authorization system. Some gift cards are reloadable through payment and can be used again and again.
Some gift cards have a barcode or magnetic strip, which can be interpreted by an electronic credit card unit. A lot of gift cards have no value until the point of sale, at which time the cashier enters the amount the customer wishes to load on the card. This amount is not usually stored on the card but rather is noted in the store's database, crosslinked to the specific ID. Gift cards are therefore not stored-value cards as used in many public transport systems or library photocopiers. To stop forgery, encrypted data is employed. The magnetic strip is usually placed differently than on a credit card, so they cannot be read or written with the usual equipment. On the other hand, some gift cards may have a set value and need to be activated through calling a specific number.
Gift cards may also be designed to meet specific needs. Through the addition of a custom message or name on the anterior portion of the card, it can make for an individualized gift or even act as an incentive for employees by demonstrating appreciation. There are those companies that offer custom designs on the cards for businesses wishing to add their logo.
Gift cards are different from gift certificates. How is that? Gift certificates are usually sold as a paper document with an official signature by a restaurant, store, or other individual establishment as a voucher for a future service and does not require electronic authorization. A gift certificate sometimes has an expiration date and usually has no administrative fees.
There is no getting around the fact that the gift card is in Canada to stay!