Debit purchasing of stored value card for use by and/or delivery to others

• US 7,363,273 B2
• Filed: 11/15/2004
• Issued: 04/22/2008
• Est. Priority Date: 06/22/1998
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JP Morgan Chase & Co)
• Original Assignee: JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JP Morgan Chase & Co)
• Inventors: Phillips, Gregory Joseph, Deporte, Rebecca, Norwine, Jeffrey, Joines, Penny
• Primary Examiner(s): Diaz, Susanna M.
• Application Number:
  US10/987,086
• Publication Number:
  US 20050097043A1
• Time in Patent Office: 1,254 Days
• Field of Search: 705/1, 705/14, 705/26, 705/41
• US Class Current: 705/41
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/10 specially adapted for electronic funds transfer [EFT] systems; specially adapted for home banking systems
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/105 involving programming of a portable memory device, e.g. IC cards, "electronic purses"
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/341 Active cards, i.e. cards including their own processing means, e.g. including an IC or chip
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/355 Personalisation of cards for use
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/40 Authorisation, e.g. identification of payer or payee, verification of customer or shop credentials; Review and approval of payers, e.g. check credit lines or negative lists
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/02 Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0215 Including financial accounts
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0234 Rebates after completed purchase
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0601 Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0609 Buyer or seller confidence or verification
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 40/00 Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 17/42 for ticket printing or like apparatus , e.g. apparatus for dispensing of printed paper tickets or payment cards
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 7/1008 Active credit-cards provided with means to personalise their use, e.g. with PIN-introduction/comparison system
• CPC Class Codes: G07G 1/0036 Checkout procedures

Abstract

A method of issuing a purchase card is provided. The method includes the steps of presenting a purchaser with the opportunity to buy the purchase card, determining whether the purchaser has sufficient funds to pay for the purchase card, creating a purchase card account for a recipient designated by the purchaser, and issuing the purchase card. The purchase card may also be issued in connection with another credit card, for example as a rebate for purchases on the credit card. The purchase card may also be converted to a credit card.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or a sponsor of the card and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network and issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the stored value account further comprises information about:

a card holder'"'"'s name, wherein the card holder comprises the purchaser or the intended recipient.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the stored value card is further marked with the card holder'"'"'s name before issuance.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the notification is received from the card holder.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein activation of the stored value card or account comprises activating the stored value card or account for a predetermined period of time.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more purchases are made using cash or a first card instrument.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the purchaser designates the intended recipient of the stored value card.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the first card is associated with the sponsor.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the merchants for which the stored value account or card is usable includes the sponsor.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein the first card is associated with a sponsor, and wherein the rebate amount is determined based on purchases from entities affiliated with the sponsor, wherein the purchases are made using cash or the first card.

12. The method of claim 7, wherein the recipient may add funds to the stored value account.

13. The method of claim 7, wherein the rebate amount is determined based on all purchases made with cash or the first card.

14. The method of claim 7, wherein the rebate amount is determined based only on purchases made with specific merchants.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of establishing comprises receiving personal information from the purchaser or the intended recipient.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of verifying comprises receiving personal information from the purchaser or the intended recipient.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the intended recipient and the purchaser are the same person or entity.

18. The method of claim 1, wherein the purchase or intended recipient may add funds to the stored value account.

19. The method of claim 1, wherein the rebate amount is based on a monetary value associated with the one or more purchases.

20. The method of claim 1, wherein the rebate amount is based on the amount for the one or more purchases.

21. The method of claim 1, wherein the rebate amount is based on a flat percentage of the one or more purchases.

22. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

disclosing terms of the rebate amount determination to the purchaser, wherein the act of determining the rebate amount is in accordance with the disclosed terms.

23. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined transaction network and the issuer are the same.

24. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

receiving a request for a stored value card associated with the stored value account.

106. The method of claim 1 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, the purchaser or intended user.

107. The method of claim 1 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, sponsor, purchaser or intended user.

25. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser using cash or a credit card associated with a sponsor, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

creating in a computer database a stored value card account, the stored value card account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a card holder'"'"'s name;

b) a stored value card account number; and

c) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

receiving a request for a stored value card associated with the stored value account;

issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network, issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and sponsor identification inimical associated with the sponsor, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases from any merchant that is part of a set of merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor of the card; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

26. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is usable with a sponsor and entities affiliated with the sponsor, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser using cash or a credit card associated with a sponsor, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

creating in a computer database an stored value card account, the stored value card account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a stored value card account number; and

b) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network, issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and sponsor identification inimical associated with the sponsor, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases from any merchant that is associated with the transaction network and which is part of a set of merchants designated by the issuer or a sponsor of the card; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

27. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made using cash or a first card instrument of a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

creating in a computer database an stored value card account, the stored value card account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a card holder'"'"'s name;

b) a stored value card account number; and

c) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount; and

issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with the card holder'"'"'s name at the time of issuance and at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network and issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases at merchants affiliated with the transaction network and which have been designated by the issuer or a sponsor of the stored value card; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

28. A computer-implemented system for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the system comprising:

a processor for determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser. wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

a processor for creating in a computer database an stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from any merchant of a set of designated merchants affiliated with the transaction network; and

a processor for activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

29. The system of claim 28, further comprising:

a processor for issuing the stored value card associated with the stored value account, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network and issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the stored value account further comprises information about:

card holder'"'"'s name, wherein the card holder comprises the purchaser or the intended recipient.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the stored value card is further marked with the card holder'"'"'s name before issuance.

32. The system of claim 30, further comprising:

a processor for receiving notification from the card holder or other entity that the stored value card has been received.

33. The system of claim 28, wherein the stored value card or account is activated for a predetermined period of time.

34. The system of claim 28, further comprising:

a processor for issuing a first card to the purchaser, wherein the one or more purchases are made using cash or a first card instrument.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein the purchaser designates the intended recipient of the stored value card.

36. The system of claim 34, wherein the first card is associated with a sponsor.

37. The system of claim 36, wherein the merchants for which the stored value account or card is usable includes the sponsor.

38. The system of claim 34. wherein the first card is associated with a sponsor, and wherein the rebate amount is determined based on purchases from entities affiliated with the sponsor, wherein the purchases are made using the first card.

39. The system of claim 34, wherein the purchaser or the intended recipient may add funds to the stored value card account.

40. The system of claim 34, wherein the rebate amount is determined based on all purchases made with cash or the first card.

41. The system of claim 34, wherein the rebate amount is determined based only on purchases made with specific merchants.

42. The system of claim 28, further comprising:

a processor for establishing a name of the card holder.

43. The system of claim 42, wherein the processor for activating the stored value account or card is configured to receive personal information from the purchaser or the intended recipient.

44. The system of claim 28, wherein identity verification is based on receiving personal information from the purchaser or the intended recipient.

45. The system of claim 28, wherein the intended recipient and the purchaser are the same person or entity.

46. The system of claim 28, wherein the intended recipient or purchaser may add funds to the stored value card account.

47. The system of claim 28, wherein the rebate amount is based on a monetary value associated with the one or more purchases.

48. The system of claim 28, wherein the rebate amount is based on the amount for the one or more purchases.

49. The system of claim 28, wherein the rebate amount is based on a flat percentage of the one or more purchases.

50. The system of claim 28, further comprising:

a processor for disclosing terms of the rebate amount determination to the purchaser, wherein the act of determining the rebate amount is in accordance with the disclosed terms.

51. The system of claim 28, wherein the predetermined transaction network and the issuer are the same.

52. The system of claim 28, further comprising:

a processor for receiving a request for a stored value card associated with the stored value account.

53. A computer-implemented system for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the system comprising:

a processor for determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser using cash or a credit card associated with a sponsor, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases

a processor for creating in a computer database an independent stored value card account, the stored value card account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the independent stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a card holder'"'"'s name;

b) a stored value card account number; and

c) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

a processor for receiving a request for a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

a processor for issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network, issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and sponsor identification inimical associated with the sponsor, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases only from merchants affiliated with the sponsor or which are part of a set of eligible merchants designated by the issuer or sponsor of the stored value card; and

a processor for activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

54. A computer-implemented system for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is usable with a sponsor, the system comprising:

a processor for determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser using cash or a credit card associated with a sponsor. wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

a processor for creating in a computer database an stored value card account, the stored value card having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a stored value card account number; and

b) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

a processor for issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network, issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and sponsor identification inimical associated with the sponsor, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases only from merchants affiliated with the sponsor or the transaction network; and

a processor for activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

55. A computer-implemented system for an issuer to issue a stored value card as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value card is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the system comprising:

a processor for determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made using cash or a first card instrument of a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

a processor for creating in a computer database an stored value card account, the stored value card having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a card holder'"'"'s name;

b) a stored value card account number; and

c) a stored value card purchase amount, wherein the stored value card purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

a processor for issuing the stored value card, wherein the stored value card is marked with the card holder'"'"'s name before issuance and at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network and issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer, and wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases from any merchant or type of merchant that is designated by the issuer or sponsor and that is affiliated with the transaction network.

a processor for activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

56. A computer-implemented system for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate amount, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the system comprising:

a rebate-calculating processor for determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser. wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

a computer storage system for storing an account file containing information about an stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants that are designated by the issuer or a sponsor; and

a processor for activating the stored value account or a stored value card associated therewith upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

57. The system of claim 56, wherein the stored value card associated with the stored value account is issued to a card holder, further comprising:

a marking device configured to mark the stored value card with at least one of transaction network identification inimical associated with the transaction network and issuer identification inimical associated with the issuer;

wherein the card holder comprises the purchaser or the intended recipient.

58. The system of claim 57, wherein the stored value account further comprises information about:

a card holder'"'"'s name.

59. The system of claim 58, wherein the marking device is further configured to mark the stored value card with the card holder'"'"'s name prior to the time of issuance.

60. The system of claim 58, further comprising:

an input device for receiving notification from the card holder that the stored value card has been received.

61. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating processor is configured to determine the rebate amount based on purchases from entities affiliated with the sponsor, wherein the purchases are made using cash or a first card.

62. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating processor is configured to determine the rebate amount based on all purchases made with cash or a first card.

63. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating processor is configured to determine the rebate amount based only on purchases made with specific merchants.

64. The system of claim 56, wherein the merchants for which the stored value card is usable include the sponsor.

65. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating entity is configured to determine the rebate amount based on a monetary value associated with the one or more purchases.

66. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating entity is further configured to determine the rebate amount based on the total amount of the one or more purchases.

67. The system of claim 56, wherein the rebate-calculating entity is configured to determine the rebate amount based on a flat percentage of the one or more purchases.

68. The system of claim 56, further comprising:

an output device for passing information about terms of the rebate amount determination to the purchaser, wherein the rebate amount is determined in accordance with the terms.

69. The system of claim 56, wherein the predetermined transaction network and the issuer are the same.

70. The system of claim 56, further comprising:

an input device for receiving a request for a stored value card associated with the stored value account.

71. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser using cash or a credit card, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases;

creating in a computer database an stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value card account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

c) a cardholder'"'"'s name;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account to a recipient designated by the purchaser, wherein the stored value card is marked with at least one of transaction network identification indicia associated with the transaction network and issuer identification indicia associated with the issuer, wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants that have been designated by the issuer or a sponsor or merchant;

receiving notification that the stored value card has been received; and

activating the stored value card based on the notification, the first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or upon establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

72. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a reward, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

receiving a reward amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the reward amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database an stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said reward amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the reward amount,

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases; and

activating the stored value account upon;

(1) receipt of notification that a stored value card associated with the stored value account has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

73. The method of claim 72 wherein the reward amount is received from a merchant or a sponsor of the stored value card.

74. The method of claim 72 wherein the reward amount comprises a rebate.

75. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a reward, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on a reward amount, wherein the reward amount is a monetary amount and is based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, and wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the reward amount, and

activating the stored value account upon;

(1) receipt of notification that a stored value card associated with the stored value account has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or a sponsor or merchant.

76. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value card as a reward, wherein the stored value card is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

receiving a reward amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the reward amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account associated with the stored value card, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said reward amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the reward amount, and

wherein the stored value card is usable for purchases from any merchant or type of merchant designated by the issuer or a sponsor or merchant; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

77. The method of claim 76 wherein before issuance, the stored value card is marked with the purchaser or the intended recipient'"'"'s name.

78. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases at multiple merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor or merchant and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

108. The method of claim 78 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, the purchaser or intended user.

79. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases at multiple merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor or merchant and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

80. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants designated by the purchaser of the card and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

81. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

selecting or receiving from the sponsor or merchant or purchaser designated entities affiliated with a particular network, wherein the stored value account may be used for purchases at the designated entities;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

82. The method of claim 81 wherein the particular network is a credit network.

83. The method of claim 81 wherein the particular network is a debit network.

84. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

selecting or receiving from the sponsor or merchant or purchaser designated merchants that operate on a particular network, wherein the stored value account may be used for purchases at the designated merchants;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

85. The method of claim 84 wherein the particular network is a credit network.

86. The method of claim 84 wherein the particular network is a debit network.

87. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from all merchants that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those merchants or types of merchants that are designated by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

109. The method of claim 87 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, the purchaser or intended user.

88. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from all entities or types of entities that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those entities or types of entities that are designated by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

110. The method of claim 88 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, the purchaser or intended user.

89. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable to purchase goods or services or types of goods or services from all merchants or types of merchants that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those goods or services or types of goods or services or those merchants or types of merchants that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

111. The method of claim 89 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, the purchaser or intended user.

90. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable to purchase goods or services or types of goods or services from all entities or types of entities that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those goods or services or types of goods or services or entities or types of entities that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

112. The method of claim 90 wherein, after issuance, the stored value account or card is reloaded with funds or an additional rebate amount by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant, purchaser or intended user.

91. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or a sponsor or merchant and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

or (2) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

92. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases at multiple merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor or merchant of the card and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

93. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases at multiple merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor or merchant and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

94. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants designated by the purchaser of the card and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

95. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

selecting or receiving from the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser designated entities affiliated with a particular network, wherein the stored value account may be used for purchases at the designated entities;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

96. The method of claim 95 wherein the particular network is a credit network.

97. The method of claim 95 wherein the particular network is a debit network.

98. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

selecting or receiving from the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser designated merchants that operate on a particular network, wherein the stored value account may be used for purchases at the designated merchants;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

99. The method of claim 98 wherein the particular network is a credit network.

100. The method of claim 98 wherein the particular network is a debit network.

101. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from all merchants that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those merchants or types of merchants that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

102. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from all entities or types of entities that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those entities or types of entities that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

103. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable to purchase goods or services or types of goods or services from all merchants or types of merchants that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those goods or services or types of goods or services or those merchants or types of merchants that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

104. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable to purchase goods or services or types of goods or services from all entities or types of entities that are affiliated with the transaction network, except those goods or services or types of goods or services or entities or types of entities that are excluded by the issuer, the sponsor or merchant or the purchaser;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

105. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a rebate award, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

determining or receiving from a sponsor or merchant a rebate amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the rebate amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database a stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said rebate amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the rebate amount;

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases from merchants or types of merchants designated by the issuer or the sponsor or merchant and are affiliated with the transaction network;

issuing a stored value card associated with the stored value account; and

activating the stored value account or card upon;

(1) receipt of notification that the stored value card has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

113. A computer-implemented method for an issuer to create a stored value account as a reward, wherein the stored value account is affiliated with a predetermined transaction network and the issuer, the method comprising:

receiving a reward amount based upon one or more purchases made by a purchaser, wherein the reward amount comprises a monetary amount that may be used to make purchases; and

creating in a computer database an stored value account, the stored value account having a purchase value based on said reward amount, wherein the stored value account comprises information about;

a) a stored value account number; and

b) a stored value purchase amount, wherein the stored value purchase amount initially comprises the reward amount,

wherein the stored value account is usable for purchases; and

activating the stored value account upon;

(1) receipt of notification that a stored value card associated with the stored value account has been received by the purchaser or an intended recipient;

(2) first use of the stored value account or card by the purchaser or intended recipient;

or (3) establishing the name or verifying the identity of the purchaser or the intended recipient of the stored value card.

114. The method of claim 113 wherein the reward amount is received from a merchant or a sponsor of the stored value card.

115. The method of claim 113 wherein the reward amount comprises a rebate.