A woman in Florida recently purchased a Visa gift card to use in her online shopping transactions, a sound idea to help avoid identity threat. Although this is a great way to protect your regular credit card from fraud it is important to read all of the Visa gift card fine print before proceeding. The woman tried to use the card online without following the instructions only to discover that the card was voided. When she tried to get her money back from Visa and the store neither were able to offer her a full refund. What happened? Many people use Visa gift cards online, what went wrong?

Visa gift cards can take up to 24 hours to activate, although they typically are activated this card did not and as a result the card was voided when someone attempted to use it before it had been activated. The woman recouped some of her money, but not all of it. Remember to read all of the fine print when you purchase a prepaid Visa or Visa gift card. Failure to follow instructions can void the card with no one left accountable for the lost balance.

Another tip to keep in mind if you are having trouble using your prepaid Visa online is to go to the Visa website and tie your name and address to the gift card. Some online retailers will not accept credit cards if the card holders name and address are available.

Its that time of year again, where the latest class of college students are finishing up exams and attending their convocations. Most of us know at least one student graduating this year, and we are aware that they are launching into one of the toughest economies in North American since the depression. Thats why graduation gifts this year are more likely to be cold hard cash or a gift card. Although many people frown upon giving cash and gift cards in this economy it is usually exactly what a graduating student needs.

Cash or a nice check makes the best gift, but if a graduating student lives far away and you are planning on mailing the gift a gift card is a better option. The best gift cards to give are the prepaid Visa’s or American Express gift cards, these can be used at any location the credit cards are excepted. If you still want something more personal electronics store gift cards, itunes gift cards or clothing gift cards are always popular with the college crown. Try to figure out what the students plans are for after gradation. If they are traveling then buy a travel gift gift card, if the student is moving into a new apartment an Ikea gift card may be in order.

Cash or gift cards in the best gift for grads in the uncertain economy. The last of their concerns right now is another College sweater or a special fram for their diploma, the current trend for students is survival.