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.

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.