Prepaid Debit Card vs. Gift Card: Which Is the Better Gift?
As gift giving time rolls around, it can be difficult to know which method of payment is the best.
Do you go with the prepaid debit card, or would the gift card be a better option? The gift card seems impersonal since you have to buy your own and pick which store it can be redeemed in.
The debit card has pros and cons, though. Before you choose your method of payment, it’s important to look at all of the information.
Keep reading to learn which choice would be better as a gift. Compare the prepaid debit card vs gift card through our eyes and choose which one is right for you.
Advantages of Prepaid Debit Cards
Prepaid cards are safer than cash and easy to use, as a holder can use the card for any product or service for which it’s accepted. In addition, there are no hidden fees or interest rates.
These cards can often be reloaded, allowing the recipient to enjoy continued use of the card. While giving the giver the peace of mind of knowing their gift will be used.
They also often offer perks such as cash-back rewards and other discounts. Lastly, they can easily be tracked or monitored to ensure they are being used properly.
Disadvantages of Prepaid Debit Cards
Prepaid debit cards can be a convenient gift, but there are a few disadvantages that make them a less-than-ideal choice. One potential downside of prepaid debit cards is the potential lack of consumer protection.
Since the money is already loaded onto the card, consumers cannot dispute fraudulent charges. Additionally, prepaid debit cards often come with extra fees including activation fees, reload fees, and monthly maintenance fees. As a result, the giver may not get the full value of the gift for the recipient.
Advantages of Gift Cards
One big advantage is that gift cards are much easier for the receiver to use. Unlike other forms of payment, there is no long and complicated billing process; the receiver just swipes the card when they are ready to pay.
Finally, gift cards can be easily customized, with specialized messages and design options that can personalize your gift. All in all, gift cards offer a lot of advantages, making them the better choice for a gifting money option.
Disadvantages of Gift Cards
One risk of gift cards is that they are often limited to one specific store or online retailer, which limits the options of the recipient. This further increases the risk of the card not being used, or only partially used, as some stores may not carry items the recipient wants or need.
Additionally, unused gift cards can sometimes get forfeited and go to waste; however, according to a helpful article on Prepaid2Cash.com, if you don’t use a prepaid debit card for a few months, you can have it reactivated.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Better Gift Giving Cards
Prepaid debit cards and gift cards are both great gift giving options. But depending on the person you are shopping for a prepaid debit card may be the better choice. They offer the flexibility and convenience of a credit card with the safety of a cash gift. Get your loved ones a prepaid debit card today.
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With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.
