Many retailers are going green, that is, they're adding eco-friendly products and services to their offerings. And you can make a statement by buying these products with gift cards you receive for your birthday, Christmas, graduation or other special occasion.
Following are some reasons to purchase eco-friendly products with these cards.
More Expensive: Some eco-friendly products are more expensive than their non-green counterparts.
This causes many to forego purchasing them. Take light bulbs for instance.
Environmental experts recommend replacing regular incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent (CF) bulbs. The CF bulbs use approximately one-fourth the wattage of a regular light bulb. For example, a regular 60-watt light bulb can be replaced with a 15-watt CF bulb and have the same lighting power. The CF bulbs last a lot longer too.
However, they are more expensive than regular light bulbs. This is a perfect time to use your gift cards to buy eco-friendly products you may otherwise forego because of price.
Create Demand: Retailers stock their shelves with what consumers want to buy, ostensibly. Hence, the more eco-friendly products consumers purchase using gift cards, the more of a demand it creates for even more environmentally friendly products.
There are Thousands of Eco-Friendly Products to Buy with Your Gift Cards
The demand for eco-friendly products has exploded in the last few years. And, it's only increasing. So you don't have to fear that your choices will be limited when you go shopping with your gift cards for environmentally friendly products. Following are just some of the products and services you will find available:
Personal care products: Soaps, creams and lotions are just some of the green products you will find at major retailers. You can take care of your body - and the environment at the same time.
Cleaning Products: Many companies have heard the cry of concerned parents and environmentalists about harsh chemicals used in cleaning products. And, they're offering eco-friendly alternatives; many of which you can find at major retailers when you go shopping with your gift cards.
Products for Children: Besides environmentalists, parents may be the main group demanding more eco-friendly products. And, manufacturers are listening. There are "green" product options for children in everything from furniture to bath products to toys.
And they can all be purchased with gift cards which are, after all, just like cash.
Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com: At ABC Gift Cards, we sell cheap gift cards. Remember, gift cards are just like cash. So, always buy them from reputable sellers. You will find gift cards for every occasion at ABC: from children's products, to "green" products to travel and entertainment. We stand behind every transaction we make. ABC Gift Cards is accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier
Gift cards are an ideal solution when you're stumped for the perfect gift. But part of the reason giving a gift is so much fun is the ceremony around unwrapping it. The recipient may shake the box to see if they can guess what's inside. Then comes the fun of taking off the bow, undoing the decorative ribbons and tearing through the wrapping paper.
When you give a gift card, you want the recipient to experience the same excitement as a beautifully wrapped gift. And they can -- if you get creative with the packaging.
Packaging That Creates Excitement!
To keep your card from feeling impersonal, following are some packaging solutions that will create the excitement that gift giving is supposed to entail.
Gift Card Boxes
When you purchase a card to give, usually there's no packaging that comes with it. However, there are holders that can dress up the card, so to speak. For example, if you want your card to be a surprise, put it in a box - just like a traditional present.
You can buy beautifully decorated boxes with colorful bows, streaming ribbons, and other accents to make it stand out. The recipient then gets to "unwrap" an actual present.
Gift Card Bags
Putting a card inside a decorated bag is another way to dress up this present. Gift bags come in almost every size, color and material imaginable. They also come in special shapes, which make for some truly interesting choices. You can stuff your bag with colorful tissue paper and attach decorative streamers and bows for some all out gift-giving fun.
Children, in particular, appreciate presents that they have to unwrap. As they don't understand the value of money, the wrapping will make it especially fun for them to open. And, when you explain that they can buy anything they want with their Toys R Us gift card, for example, they'll soon be squealing in delight.
Many industry surveys have shown that gift cards are a preferred gift by many. Dressing them up in attractive packaging make it a fun way to give them.
Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com: At ABC Gift Cards, we sell cheap gift cards. Remember, gift cards are just like cash. So, always buy them from reputable sellers. You will find gift cards for every occasion at ABC: from children's products, to travel and entertainment, to food, clothing and jewelry! We stand behind every transaction we make. ABC Gift Cards is accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier
Step1
This following offer is 100% gimmicks free, and legitimate. I know because I have done it myself! Your first step is to go to http://www.MakeMoneyOnlineNoGimmicks.com
Step 2
Next, Click on the link in the navigation bar that states: "Earn FREE Gift Cards". This navigation bar is on the left hand side of the webpage. The link you want it first on the list.
Step 3
Click on the type of gift card, and in the denomination that you'd like to get. The gift cards come in increments of $20.00, $10.00 and $5.00. You can get one from Wal-mart, amazon.com, or get a visa gift card.
Step 4
Following the corresponding directions. The directions are easy to follow and simple, with out any run around!
Step 5
Enjoy your gift card when it comes or give it away as a gift! This is a deal, especially just before the holidays! There are also other neat things on this webpage to check out.
source:
You would think that giving a gift would be a time of joy. However, for many, it is an unbelievably stressful time. You may obsess over selecting the right gift, for the right person, for the right occasion at the right price. Given this, it's easy to see why it can be stressful. However, gift cards can eliminate the stress of gift giving - forever. Really!
Following is a fool-proof plan to eliminate the worry of gift giving -- once and for all.
Get Organized: Part of the reason gift giving is so stressful is that occasions usually sneak up on us, eg:
I forgot that Aunt Harriet's birthday is day after tomorrow; or
My niece is getting his driver's license in three days; or
Uncle Joe's retirement party is just a week away.
Once you realize this, off you go - scurrying for the perfect present. To prevent this, create a calendar of gift-giving occasions for all of your family and friends for an entire year.
You can use a paper or an electronic calendar, but the key is to keep it where you can see it at all times. This way, gift-giving occasions won't slip up on you and you can purchase your gift cards in batches. And when you purchase them online, you not only save time, you save money as well.
Gift Cards: Why They are the Ideal Gift for All Occasions
Research shows that these cards are a preferred gift and the overriding reason is that recipients like being able to buy exactly what they want. Following are a few other reasons they are so
popular as gifts:
Good as Cash: Gift cards are just like cash so you can use them to purchase anything a merchant sells. Instead of pulling out cash, you simply swipe your card.
Combine with Other Discounts: Because gift cards are just like cash, you can combine them with coupons, discounts and other rebates a merchant may be offering to get additional savings.
Most Never Expire: The vast majority of gift cards never expire. Recent governmental intervention has made this possible. Check with the merchant at hand for more details regarding your particular card.
Gift Card, Stress-Relieving Tip: For unexpected gift-giving occasions, keep a few gift cards on hand. This way, you'll never be pressed into shopping at the last minute for the perfect present.
Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com: Want to buy, sell or trade your gift cards? At ABC Gift Cards you can buy cheap gift cards, sell your unused gift cards, or trade your unwanted gift cards for other merchant cards. We are the largest, online secondary discounted gift cards marketplace accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier
Gift cards are an ideal gift for any occasion. They allow the recipient to get exactly what they want or need - when they want or need it the most. During a recession especially, they can literally be lifesavers. Following are some ideas on which ones to give during a recession.
Gas Gift Cards: Gas for the car, like heat and lights, are a constant necessity. Eventually, the taking is going to have to be refilled. And it can be a budget buster if you're just scraping by, even if your car gets great gas mileage.
Gas cards are one gift that most every recipient can use. And, they come in handy when times are tight. If you know someone who is struggling to pay the bills, give them a gas gift card. They'll thank you for it when they pull up to the pump.
Restaurant Gift Cards: When money is tight, the first thing that usually gets cut out of the budget is extras like eating out. Restaurant gift cards can bring a little joy back into a struggling family's daily life at just the time it'll be most appreciated. How?
Consider this: Dad is working as much overtime as he can get. Mom has taken on a part-time job in addition to her full-time job. But, it barely makes it worthwhile once childcare expenses are paid. There's never enough for extras.
Allowing a family a meal out at a nice restaurant is an ideal gift for families struggling to make ends meet. It gives everyone a much-needed night of fun out.
Home Improvement Gift Cards: The kitchen faucet is leaking, the bathroom toilet is broken and the front windows need to be winterized. But, it's just not in the budget.
Home improvement gift cards are ideal gifts during a recession because they allow strapped homeowners to purchase the little things that can make a big difference - not only in the quality of life immediately, but save in long-term costs as well.
Protect Your Gift: Beware of Gift Card Fraud
Remember to always purchase cards from a reputable discount gift card seller who is not simply a third-party listing agent. If you're unsure, check their status with the Better Business Bureau.
Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com: Want to buy, sell or trade your gift cards? At ABC Gift Cards you can buy cheap gift cards, sell your unused gift cards, or trade your unwanted gift cards for other merchant cards. We are the largest, online secondary discounted gift cards marketplace accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier
Best buy is the largest retailer of consumer electronic in North America and it is also known as the big blue box. It has very many subsidiaries including in Europe, Asia and South America. The headquarters of the company are in Richfield Minnesota. The company has huge plans to operate around 1,800 stores worldwide and 1,400 best buy stores in the United States. In 2000 the company received a lawsuit against them for misrepresenting warranties in an aim to sell more. The company settled with the 2 Florida consumers and never admitted to any fault. The business has been in existence since 1966 and, they have come a long way. They engage in many marketing tools and one of them is the use of best buy gift card.Some of the benefits of best buy gift cards are that you will get to choose from a variety of different styles and therefore there is no monotony. The second benefit is that the cards can be redeemed in U.S stores or online. Your card can be reloaded at the stores in the U.S. Checking the balance of your gift card is easy and convenient because you can check this information online. When you buy online you can enjoy free shipping of your purchases and this is very helpful to a consumer who has a best buy gift card. You do not have to worry about safety because your product is protected from theft. Another thing you do not have to worry about is the expiry date or the maintenance fee making the best buy gift card is very convenient to have.There are various categories of best buy gift cards and they include dad's day and any occasion, grads and congratulations, thank you, birthdays and many more. You will view every gift card on the best buy site and make a decision on what card is suitable for you. You will also see the new cards and get an opportunity to check your balance as well as redeem your gift card. You will enjoy great products from best buy and at an affordable and convenient way. Some people have expressed their dissatisfaction accusing the retail for giving in one hand and taking in the other. You can find the products they offer on their site and choose which deal is best for you.you do not have to worry about a card not suiting your specific occasion because the cards will make it simple for you to choose for any occasion. For example, if you have a birthday, the cards are there to meet your need. Best buy gift cars have a similarity with gift certificates and they perform the same role. There are many cards and certificates to choose from on their website and you therefore need to know what you want in a best buy card then purchase it. Making online purchases will help you save the cost of shipping and you need to consider such offers. However, make sure you have information on the product you are about to purchase because you might be tempted to purchase in so much haste. The certificates will go a long way to make your shopping experience easy and convenient.
Article Source:
http://www.articlesbase.com/business-ideas-articles/a-look-at-some-of-the-benefits-of-best-buy-gift-card-463922.html
With so many businesses offering gift cards there is now a demand for buying, selling and trading gift cards. There are gift cards everywhere now even at fast food restaurants.
Some are trying to sell their gift cards on Craigslist but they only have Craigslist for larger cities and you may not get the price you want.
There are places to buy them below face value or sell and trade them with a secure transaction.
There are thousands available and it is often FREE to sign up. I can save 40% on my purchases just by buying their discounted gift cards. There are also new ones listed every day and you can swap your gift card with the one you want even if it has a greater value.
You can also sell your gift card to them for cash or trade your unwanted card. It stays listed until it sells.
There are even the most expensive retail stores gift cards available for up to $100.00 OFF or more. This is almost better than trying to find a coupon for your favorite store because your savings are guaranteed with a discount gift card and that is like free money!
The gift cards are available for anyone to buy, sell or trade. This is a great opportunity whether you are buying a gift card as a gift or using it for yourself as a coupon.
If you do not find the one you want the first time, be sure to check often because the inentory changes every day!
I am a stay at home mom of three children and I am always looking for ways to save money. http://gotmineforless.com/Sell-Or-Trade-Your-Gift-Card
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http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brandi_Yates
At the Conoco gas stations, you can buy gas or other merchandise. There are many stations that sell grocery items and some have co-branded fast food restaurants inside. You can buy gift cards to give as gifts or keep them for yourself when you are traveling. The gift cards are a nice way to travel and not carry money around. You can get a Conoco gift card, Phillips 76 gift card and a 66 gift card. All gift cards are redeemable at any of these three stations. There are gift cards for businesses and gift cards for drivers.
Gift Cards for Drivers and Business
The gift cards are great for when your kids are going off to college or if you have a birthday present to buy. The cards can be used on anything in the gas stations store. You can get a $250, $100, $50 or $25 gift card. You can use the cards right at the pump just as you would a credit or gas card. The business gift cards are ideal for giving to new customers or for rewarding employees for an outstanding job. You can choose the denomination you want for each card.
Convenience Store
Many Conoco gas stations have a convenience store where you can buy grocery items including dairy products, alcohol, tobacco products and other merchandise. Some of the stations have co-branded fast food restaurants such as McDonald's, Hardee's and some even have an Arby's. More and more stores and stations are teaming with fast food restaurants to provide more for their customers. It is easy to stop for a breakfast, lunch or dinner when you stop to fill up your gas tank. All stations have indoor bathrooms and usually have coffee, cocoa and soft drinks available from the food mart area of the station.
The PROclean Fuel
The gas found at all Conoco gas stations offer PROclean fuel. The gasoline has benefits for your car. It cleans intake valves and fuel injectors, reduces pollutions and emissions, and improves acceleration and power. This gas will also maximize the mileage you get with every day driving. Cars that use the Conoco gas run better and clean. The gas additive is the one that is recommended for all your vehicles. It not only helps your vehicle run better, it is better for the environment. You can find the PROclean fuel at any Conoco station and at Phillips 76 and 66 stations.
If you need a gift idea, Conoco gas stations will have the gift card that can be recharged over and over again. You will help your car by running the gas that cleans as you drive. These stations serve all your needs. Whether you need some groceries, gas or a lunchtime meal, you can get all you need at a Conoco station. You can use their gas cards or credit cards right at the pumps and avoid the walk into the store. The pumps are self-serve with payment options on the pump with a receipt.
Would you like to spend more time driving and less time buying gas? We're here to help. Just get a Conoco $1000 gas card FREE at http://www.prepaidgascardgiveaway.com
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hayden_Anderson
Retail Gift Card Association formed to ensure positive customer experience
MIAMI, Dec. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- With increased consumer interest in gift cards, top US retailers led by founding members Applebee's, Best Buy, Home Depot, Marriott International and Subway, have joined together to create an industry group whose goal is to ensure shoppers have only positive experiences with the gift cards they buy and use. The Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) formed in October with a mission to create consumer-centered policies and procedures for members that will let consumers continue to confidently buy and use the cards that have become the #1 gift choice over last several years.
As gift cards have increased in popularity, many new product offerings have fallen under the gift card label; not all of these are consistent with stringent guidelines proposed for member retailers. Some gift cards have policies with respect to fees and expirations that are clearly not in the best interests of the consumer. Membership in the RGCA is limited to premier retailers with strong brands and longevity in the market, who place particular emphasis on their customers' satisfaction and agree to abide by a set of principles that place the consumer first. The RGCA will be calling on ALL retailers to follow a strict standard that will protect consumers.
In addition to strong, consumer-oriented guidelines for merchants, the Association will investigate new initiatives that will provide increased security against fraud and greater protection in the event of business reorganization or bankruptcy. "The RGCA is committed to working with consumers, interest groups and the media to make sure that customers receive products that are effective, safe and still exciting to use," said Leigh Anne Ambrose, Sr. Director Global Incentives and Gift Cards for Marriott International, one of the founding members of the organization.
Dan Horne, a professor at Providence College who has been studying American gift giving for more than 20 years says that gift cards work well and that recent research confirms that they continue to be consumer favorites. "Data shows that gift cards have extremely high levels of satisfaction because they really fill a need," said Professor Horne. "Consumers love to give people the opportunity to go shopping, enjoy a meal out, or experience a night away. In difficult economic times, giving the ability to go out and buy or do the things that are most highly valued is better than taking a guess that someone needs a new sweater or pair of pants." For the top retailers to put together a consumer-focused group makes sense to Horne. "Their success as retailers depends on creating a positive experience and a long term relationship with their customers."
Article Source:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m4PRN/is_2008_Dec_1/ai_n31044544
Enter for a Chance to Win a $1,000 Gift Card and Early Entry Into Select Best Buy Locations on the Morning After Thanksgiving
MINNEAPOLIS -- Best Buy recognizes that for many families across the country, getting out early on the day after Thanksgiving is an important annual tradition. That's why the nation's leading consumer electronics retailer will celebrate the Black Friday tradition this year by recognizing 25 shoppers through their Black Friday VIP contest, launching today.
Best Buy is looking for consumers in 25 cities to share how Black Friday shopping is an important holiday tradition for them and their family, and what kinds of rituals they have to make the morning after Thanksgiving an enjoyable kick off to the holiday season. Consumers can submit stories on AskABlueShirt.net/blackfridayvip from October 29, 2008 - November 18, 2008. One winner in each market will be notified by November 24.
"We know that for many of our customers, getting out early on the morning after Thanksgiving is about more than getting a great deal, it's a way to celebrate the start of the holiday season with friends and family," said Greg Johnson, senior vice president of marketing for Best Buy. "We do our best to make Black Friday a fun, festive time for our customers, including hundreds of hours of training to get ready for the day. This contest is another way we can recognize the importance of this tradition, and give some customers a truly special experience."
Major VIP Treatment for 25 Winners
One winner from each of the twenty-five eligible markets will win a $1,000 Best Buy Gift Card and full VIP treatment including: a limousine ride to and from the designated Best Buy store below, on-site pampering and prizes for the winner and up to three guests, early admittance into the store at 4:30 a.m., and the opportunity to purchase up to four doorbusters. Each winner will also receive a Pure Digital Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder to document the Black Friday VIP experience. Some limitations apply. Full contest rules are available on AskABlueShirt.net/blackfridayvip. Participating stores include:
[TABLE OMITTED]
About Best Buy Co., Inc.
With operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, and China, Best Buy is a multinational retailer of technology and entertainment products and services with a commitment to growth and innovation. The Best Buy family of brands and partnerships collectively generates more than $40 billion annual revenue and includes brands such as Best Buy, Audiovisions, The Carphone Warehouse, Future Shop, Geek Squad, Jiangsu Five Star, Magnolia Audio Video, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Bath Centers, The Phone House and Speakeasy. Approximately 165,000 employees apply their talents to help bring the benefits of these brands to life for customers through retail locations, multiple call centers and Web sites, in-home solutions, product delivery and activities in our communities. Community partnership is central to the way we do business at Best Buy. In fiscal 2008, we donated a combined $31.8 million to improve the vitality of the communities where our employees and customers live and work. For more information about Best Buy,
visit:
www.bestbuyinc.com.
Article Source:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EIN/is_2008_Oct_29/ai_n30941050
ABC Gift Cards.com: Gift Cards Are Now More Than Just Gifts. It's the New Way to Reduce the Rising Cost of Living!
0 comments Posted by John at 9:36 PMEAST WINDSOR, N.J. -- ABC Gift Cards (www.abcgiftcards.com), a leading on-line gift card marketplace, sells major retail gift cards at a significant discount below the face value of the cards: e.g., Home Depot & Best Buy at 9% off the face value, Children's Place and Brooks Brothers at 20% off.
"Buying gift cards at a discount is almost like buying cash at a discount. Consumers are realizing that it's now more than just about giving - it's about saving. Customers who purchase gift cards from us and then use them as the method of payment at their favorite merchants are significantly reducing their shopping expenses," says Marc Acker, founder and CEO of ABC Gift Cards. "It's the new trend on how to fight the rising cost of living."
How are gift cards sold below face value and even below what bulk customers can purchase them for? For instance, Starbucks' bulk gift card sales department requires a minimum purchase of $500,000 to get a discount of 6%, whereas, ABC sells them at a 12% discount, with no minimum purchase. The answer is simple, says Acker, "We are a secondary Gift Card Marketplace. Did you ever receive a gift card as a present that you didn't want? ABC Gift Cards purchases these cards from you at a discount and then passes these saving on to their customers."
Gift Cards are among this year's most popular gifts, generating $97 billion in sales in 2007, well above the $83 billion of sales in 2006, according to The Tower Group, an independent research firm. Amazingly, 8.5% of these cards are never used (i.e. $8.2 billion in 2007).
Accordingly, www.ABCGiftCards.com has established a secure secondary market to buy, sell, and trade gift cards, and has a diverse selection of discounted gift cards from over 100 major retailers. Presently, they have the largest supply of discounted gift cards on-line.
ABC Gift Cards distinguishes itself from other secondary gift card markets in many ways.
A. Deal directly with the customer. They do not list other people's cards. Instead, paying top dollar, they purchase all the cards themselves, verify the validity extensively, and only then do they sell them to customers. All sellers have to be a verified member of "PAYPAL" or undergo a security check.
B. Offer an instant trading option. Customers can exchange their gift cards for other merchant's in ABC's vast inventory for a small transaction fee.
C. All orders are shipped out within 24 hours. Email delivery option is also available.
At www.ABCGiftCards.com, the customer is sure to save thousands of dollars a year by purchasing from the large selection of merchant cards and have the comfort of knowing that their transactions are safe. ABC is accredited by the Better Business Bureau, is a verified member of PayPal, and Google Checkout.
Article Source:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EIN/is_2008_Nov_3/ai_n30959007
Gift cards are the perfect gift – during the holidays or any time of year. They make gift giving easy – whether it’s for that hard-to-shop-for person or your list, the person who has everything, or the person you just want to show appreciation to. Online merchants who sell them make gift giving less stressful. However, you must guard against gift card fraud.
Following are two common gift card fraud schemes to be aware of.
Gift Card Fraud: Two Common Schemes
Employee Theft: Employees, obviously, have easy access to gift cards. All they have to do after stealing one is to activate it with the store’s scanners. After gift cards are activated, it’s like shopping with cash. You simply purchase what you want.
The Bar Code Switch: Have you ever received a gift card with no funds on it? This could be deemed the “bar code switch” gift card fraud scheme.
This is the way it works: a thief opens up a new gift card package, which has the bar code on it. They take the new gift card inside out and slip in an old card that has no money on it. This is known as the empty card.
When an unsuspecting customer buys one of these "empty cards,” the bar code activation puts the money on the real card, which the thief has in their possession
How to Protect Yourself from Gift Card Fraud
When you purchase gift cards, the best way to protect yourself from gift card fraud is to only buy from a reputable discount gift card seller. Why is this important? Gift cards are just like cash. And, many sites that sell them act only as listing agents. This means that if the gift card is found to be fraudulent or the funds have been used, you usually have no recourse.
However, when you purchase from a reputable discount gift card seller, your gift card is guaranteed. Reputable gift card sellers go the extra mile. They purchase all the gift cards they sell, verify the merchant behind the card, and the balance on the card. Then and only then do they sell them to you, the customer.
That’s gift card fraud protection at its best!
May be reprinted with the following, in full: At ABCGiftCards.com, you’ll never have to worry about gift card fraud because we stand behind every transaction we make. Remember, gift cards are just like cash. So, always buy them from reputable sellers. ABC Gift Cards is accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source:
https://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/734631?articleid=734631
Discount Gift Cards: A Creative Way to Teach Kids How to Manage Money
0 comments Posted by John at 9:30 PMIn light of today’s economic troubles, it’s imperative that kids are taught how to properly manage money. It’s a lesson many of us don’t receive until we are thousands of dollars in debt. Following are some creative ways to use discount gift cards to teach kids about money.
Discount Gift Cards Teach Kids to Budget
You can use discount gift cards to teach children how to budget. For example, if they receive an allowance, give it to them on a gift card. Then have them break their “expenses” down into categories, eg, birthday presents for friends, weekend social activities and money for school supplies.
In this case, you can dispense their allowance on separate gift cards, eg: For birthday presents, give them a Walmart or Children’s place gift card. For weekend social activities, you can give them a Burger King gift card, or a Jack in the Box gift card. For school supplies, a Staples gift card would be ideal.
The lesson here: Give your money a purpose, for money that has no purpose will find a way to leave you.
Discount Gift Cards Teach Kids the Monetary Cycle
One of the best reasons to use discount gift cards to teach kids about money is that you can buy, sell or trade them. So if, for example, your child has money left on a card, you can show them how to turn money that’s sitting around earning no interest into cash by selling it.
Once the gift card is sold, they can then take those funds and put it in an interest-bearing savings account.
The lesson here: Your children will get to see both parts of the monetary cycle, ie, spending it and saving it.
Why Discount Gift Cards are an Ideal Way to Teach Kids about Money
When you go shopping with your children, they probably see you use plastic – not money. Even if you shop with cash, eg, a debit card, kids see “a card; the plastic.” They don’t see actual dollar bills. Is it any wonder that so many of them don’t realize the value of a real dollar?
Discount gift cards are a cash money tool. If you get your children in the habit of seeing and using plastic – but using it in a responsible manner – they’ll be much more likely to avoid the debt trap that so many fall into as they get older.
May be reprinted with the following, in full: Log on to ABCGiftCards.com for a range of discount gift cards from reputable merchants. Remember, gift cards are just like cash. So, always buy them from reputable sellers. ABC Gift Cards is accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source:
https://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/734659?articleid=734659
Just because you’re giving a gift cards as presents, it doesn’t meant it can’t be personalized. Following are three ways to personalize this gift.Think of the Recipient: What is meant by this is to really keep the recipient’s likes and dislikes in mind. For example, what do they like to do in their spare time? What is their typical workday like? What is their home life like?Thinking about things like this will start your mind to filling with ideas for the perfect gift cards to give. For example, a person who likes to play video games would enjoy a gift card to Dave and Buster’s. They not only have video games, but foosball, simulated car racing and other games the whole family can enjoy. And, it’s a restaurant. So, it could be a complete night out for the recipient and his or her friends.Who wouldn’t appreciate gift cards that allow them to treat their friends to a night of fun – and not have to spend any money?Package It With a Handmade Gift: Gift cards are the perfect way to add to the personalization of a homemade gift. For example, if you’re giving your best friend a collage of photos of the two of you taken over the years, there’s not likely anything that’s going to top that.But, you can add to it with a Barnes and Nobles gift card, for example, so she can pick up a copy of a book she’s bee telling you she wants to read.Theme Baskets: This is one of the best ways to personalize gift cards – make up a theme basket. For example, if your theme is a makeover for your sister, you can get her gift cards that encourage the process. For example, a Sports Authority gift card could be to encourage her to exercise and drop those few unwanted pounds she’s been talking about.A Lord & Taylor gift card could encourage her to go shopping after she’s shed those unwanted pounds.A Swatch gift card could serve as a reminder that time is precious – and to never waste a minute of it. What does this have to do with a makeover? Why new beginnings, of course.With these tips in mind, you can make gift cards the ultimate personal gift. Log on to ABC Gift Cards to find cheap gift cards from reputable merchants.May be reprinted with the following, in full: ABCGiftCards.com sells cheap gift cards. Remember, gift cards are just like cash. So, always buy them from reputable sellers. ABC Gift Cards is accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
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https://www.amazines.com/E-Commerce/article_detail.cfm/734671?articleid=734671
is correct that you are able to purchase anything on eBay, including gift cards and gift certificates to retailers across the nation. In certain situations, it can be quite a good deal for the customer, saving them 5%, 10%, or even more. Here are a few FAQs associated to purchasing gift cards on eBay.
Purchasing Gift Cards on eBay: Why purchase a gift card on eBay?
Let's say that you want your nephew to get a few new clothes for his birthday. If you bring him shopping yourself or purchase him a gift card direct at a clothing store, maybe you are able to afford $75 for the present. But expending that $75 on eBay, as long as you are not in a rush, you could be able to purchase a $100 gift card to the same store! A different case: one-man I know purchased a $200 gift card to a bookshop on eBay for $165 because he expected purchasing a lot of books the following month and was glad to get a $35 price reduction this way
Purchasing Gift Cards on eBay: How can folks afford to sell these things for less than their value?
Occasionally people get gift cards that they do not personally desire or need maybe a gift from a misguided relative, a thank you from a employer, or a incentive gift for purchasing something of larger value. I once got a $50 Best Buy gift card along with a computer I purchased. Instead of gift cards dollar sum worth of merchandise, folks may want to sell a card for less than it's technically worth in order to cash out. If granted the option between $80 in their PayPal account or a $100 gift card to a unselected store, several folks will take the cold hard bucks. Likewise, a few eBay businesspeople purchase gift cards in mass and receive a discount on them. Whenever they purchase $50 gift cards at $40 a pop and sell them at $45 apiece, they make profit, only the purchaser saves as well.
Purchasing Gift Cards on eBay: How good of a bargain can I get?
It depends upon a number of factors: the popularity of the merchandiser, the value of the gift card, the expiry date (whenever one exists), how long the auction goes, and so forth. You are likely to get a greater bargain on strange merchants or territorial stores than you'll on popular national merchandisers like Target, Borders, and Gap. That stated, you can commonly save anywhere from 5% - 20%.
If you are interested in more information about buying gift cards on eBay, then please head on over to my website:
http://www.giftcardable.info/
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_J_Stone
Best Buy randomly sends coupons to their customers every three months. To get them sign up on their website to join their mailing list. You will receive coupons in the mail and in your email. You will also be notified of any sales going on in your local Best Buy Store. If you make a purchase in the store using your credit card they will have your address automatically and will start sending coupons to you.
To find even more coupons look in your newspaper or ask a sales associate in the store for a coupon.
Best Buy has a rewards program which is available to everyone. Make a purchase using any form of payment and receive cash back every time you shop there.
You will get 1 point per $1.00 that you spend before taxes are applied. At 260 points you get $5.00 back.
With a Reward Zone Mastercard you will receive 4% cash back on all purchases in Best Buy and 2% elsewhere.
If you are going to make a purchase online there are ways to get cash back rebates, online coupon codes and discounts for Best Buy as well as using the Best Buy Rewards program.
By planning your next purchase ahead of time when you shop you can save a lot of money. Best Buy gift cards can also be purchased under face value.
A 10% - 20% off coupon can really help you save with your purchases at Best Buy. Coupons are also available for sale for $1 - $2 and this saves you time if you do not want to search for your coupons.
Here you can find Best Buy in store coupons, discounts and rebates:
http://gotmineforless.com/electronics-coupons/Best-buy-coupons
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brandi_Yates
Gift cards are an ideal gift for any occasion. They allow the recipient to get exactly what they want or need - when they want or need it the most. During a recession especially, they can literally be lifesavers. Following are some ideas on which ones to give during a recession.
Gas Gift Cards: Gas for the car, like heat and lights, are a constant necessity. Eventually, the taking is going to have to be refilled. And it can be a budget buster if you're just scraping by, even if your car gets great gas mileage.
Gas cards are one gift that most every recipient can use. And, they come in handy when times are tight. If you know someone who is struggling to pay the bills, give them a gas gift card. They'll thank you for it when they pull up to the pump.
Restaurant Gift Cards: When money is tight, the first thing that usually gets cut out of the budget is extras like eating out. Restaurant gift cards can bring a little joy back into a struggling family's daily life at just the time it'll be most appreciated. How?
Consider this: Dad is working as much overtime as he can get. Mom has taken on a part-time job in addition to her full-time job. But, it barely makes it worthwhile once childcare expenses are paid. There's never enough for extras.
Allowing a family a meal out at a nice restaurant is an ideal gift for families struggling to make ends meet. It gives everyone a much-needed night of fun out.
Home Improvement Gift Cards: The kitchen faucet is leaking, the bathroom toilet is broken and the front windows need to be winterized. But, it's just not in the budget.
Home improvement gift cards are ideal gifts during a recession because they allow strapped homeowners to purchase the little things that can make a big difference - not only in the quality of life immediately, but save in long-term costs as well.
Protect Your Gift: Beware of Gift Card Fraud
Remember to always purchase cards from a reputable discount gift card seller who is not simply a third-party listing agent. If you're unsure, check their status with the Better Business Bureau.
Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com:
Want to buy, sell or trade your gift cards?
At ABC Gift Cards you can buy cheap gift cards, sell your unused gift cards, or trade your unwanted gift cards for other merchant cards. We are the largest, online secondary discounted gift cards marketplace accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier
We all know someone who's idea of a good time is hanging off cliffs. If you're looking for Christmas gift ideas for a rock climbing enthusiast, here's some unique rock climbing gift ideas.Rock Climbing Gift IdeasYou can always tell a rock climber by their appearance. White chalk fingers, bleeding knuckles, bent fingers and�a grin a mile wide. Whether they are climbing in indoor climbing gyms or hanging off Half Dome in Yosemite, rock climbers are very receptive to rock climbing gifts. Here are a few gift ideas that will make you a favorite with them.
1. Rock Climbing Gym � Most metropolitan areas now have rock climbing gyms. These gyms are typically indoor areas where rock climbers can work on their techniques. Walls come in a variety of terrains and with differing holds. Membership costs range all over the place, but climbers will love the gift. This is a particular good rock climbing gift idea for people living in big cities and who can't head off for an afternoon of knuckle crunching.
2. Climb International DVD � The Climb International DVD is a highly recommended financial planning tool for rock climbers. Why? Well, the DVD contains climbs from exotic locations such as Thailand and China. After watching the DVD, the average rock climber will suddenly start saving every penny from their paycheck, rolling nickels and generally being as cheap as possible. The goal? To save enough money to travel to these locations for a personal rock climbing adventure. The DVD can be a bit hard to find. Search for it by name on any search engine and you should be able to find it. Expect to pay roughly $20 for this mouth watering movie.
3. Build Your Own Indoor Climbing Wall � You have to be very careful when giving this gift. This book gives step by step instructions on how to build an indoor climbing wall. This, of course, requires one to have a space in which to build said climbing wall. Basements and garages are typical locations, much to the chagrin of spouses. Personally, I wouldn't put my name on the "from" section of the gift card. You can expect to pay $10 or so for this evil little book.
4. Climbing Holds � Climbing holds are plaster molds that are put on a climbing wall. They come in all kinds of vicious shapes, which are perfect for bending fingers in truly unnatural positions. If you know someone who has built a climbing wall in their garage or house, this is a perfect gift. Since each climbing hold is more or less unique, just pick the ones that grab your fancy. They come in a wide range of prices, so it is often best to shop by what you can afford. Helpful Tip: Look closely at the holds. If you can't imagine how a hand would possible hold onto a particular hold, that is the one to buy!
5. Nomad Rock Climbing Journals - A little self-promotion. Nomad Rock Climbing Journals are great gifts for rock climbers. These writing journals allow climbers to keep track of their climbs, impressions, people the climbed with, routes and any additional information they feel necessary. Over time, the climbing journals become a history of climbs and a great keepsake. A great Christmas gift, you can see the rock climbing journals by clicking the link in the byline of this article and expect to pay $25 for the journal with case.As you know, there is simply no way to keep a climber from climbing. You might as well give in and give them a Christmas climbing gift.Rick Chapo is with Nomad Writing Journals - makers of rock climbing journals. Great Christmas gifts for him or Christmas gifts for her.
Article Source:
http://www.articlealley.com/article_16851_32.html
Apple created the software iTunes for use with their mp3 player, the iPod. Even if you don't have an iPod, iTunes can be very useful for organizing and playing your music. However, all the options and uses for iTunes can be very daunting for a first-time user, especially for those not extremely computer literate.
Steps
Getting iTunes
1-Make sure your sound card and drivers are updated, and that your computer meets the minimum requirements for the program. You'll need at least 256 MB of RAM and a 500 MHz processor, more if you want to use iTunes to play videos.
2-Go to the iTunes download page.
3-Uncheck both boxes (unless you want weekly emails from Apple) and click "Download iTunes llaMA- Free." You don't have to enter your email.
4-Hit "Save" on the dialog box that pops up. Save the file somewhere you will remember, such as on the desktop.
5-After it finishes downloading, install iTunes.
6-The first time you open iTunes, it will ask you if you want all the music files on your computer added to iTunes. Click "Yes" and it will add and organize all the music that is already on your computer.
Importing Music from Your Computer
1-Locate the folder containing the files you want added to your iTunes Library.
2-Open iTunes.
3-Click on "File," then "Add Folder to Library."
4-Find the folder in the browsing window that pops up, and click "OK."
5-Wait for iTunes to finish importing the files.
6-Check that only one copy is in your Library by clicking "View" then "Show Duplicates." Make sure to leave at least one copy in the duplicate view when deleting duplicates! If you delete everything in the duplicate view, you'll lose all copies of that song in your Library.
Importing Music from a CD
1-Open iTunes.
2-Put the CD in your CD drive and wait for iTunes to recognize it.
3-Click on the new icon that should have shown up in the left-hand frame. This will allow you to view and play the music on the CD.
4-Click on "Import CD" in the bottom right corner. This will take a few minutes, depending on the speed of your CD drive.
Creating a Playlist
1-Click "File" and then "New Playlist," which is the very first option under File.
Name your playlist.
2-Drag songs from your Library into your new playlist. Alternatively, you can right-click a song, roll your cursor over "Add to Playlist" and click the playlist you want to add your song to.
Creating a Smart Playlist
1-Click "File" and the "New Smart Playlist," which is the third option down.
There will be a drop down list which has a default of artist. You can make this anything you like, for example "my Rating."
2-In the next drop down list you chose the operator. The options you have will be different depending on wat you've chosen in the first drop down list, but for "My Rating" your options will be: is, is not, is greater than, is less than and is in the range of.
3-The last section is not a drop down list but a text field or a rating picker box. Here you choose what the thing you chose in the first drop down list and the operator have to comply with. For example, if you have chosen the following: My Rating is greater than 3 stars, the playlist will only add songs that are above three stars.
4-You can now add as many other rules as you like.
5-If you want to add limits to the size of your playlist then check the first box and enter what you want the playlist to be limited to and how it should select which songs to keep.
6-Press OK.
7-Name your playlist.
Using iTunes with an iPod
1-Open iTunes.
2-Plug the iPod into a USB 2.0 port on your computer. The end of the cord that goes into the computer has a picture of a three-pronged wire on it, while the iPod end has a rectangle with a line through it.
3-Wait for iTunes to recognize the iPod.
4-Click on the iPod under "Devices."
5-iTunes and iPod can automatically sync up every time you plug in an iPod, but it is easier to manually manage an iPod by clicking "Manually Manage Music" while viewing the iPod screen.
6-To add music, simply click on them and drag them to the iPod icon.
7-To delete music from your iPod in manual mode, click on "Music" under "iPod" and select the song you wish to delete. Press the delete key and click "Yes" to the dialog box that pops up.
8-To add a playlist to your iPod, you can use a previously created playlist by clicking and dragging it to the iPod icon. Use the same steps as for iTunes to create a new playlist on your iPod.
Warnings
*You can fix a frozen iPod by using the "Restore" option in iTunes, but all the music on your iPod will be deleted!
This article will give you step-by-step instructions on how to redeem an iTunes gift card.
Steps
1-Make sure you have downloaded iTunes. You can do this for free from the Apple website.
2-Create an iTunes account. This will ask you for some personal information. It is important that you enter your real information. You already have an iTunes account if you have a .Mac membership.
3-Open iTunes Then, click on iTunes Store in the pane at the left side of the screen.
4-Confirm that you are signed in as yourself. In the upper-left corner of the iTunes Shop window, verify that the button says your e-mail address.
5-In the Quick Links window in the right-hand column, click Redeem.
6-Scratch off the latex covering on the back side of the gift card.
7-In the resulting screen, enter the 16-digit code and then click Redeem.
8-Once you've successfully redeemed your gift card, the credit amount will appear next to your account name in the bottom-left corner. Each time you purchase items, iTunes will deduct funds from the credit until you run out.
Tips
*iTunes gift cards are good to use if you do not have a credit card, or if you don't want to give your credit card information to Apple. Simply purchase a gift card at a store for yourself and redeem it using the above steps.
Warnings
*Scratch off the code gently! The numbers will not be visible otherwise.
*Make sure it is your account you are crediting, not someone else's.
source:
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-an-iTunes-Gift-Card
Importing as an audiobook gives several advantages which include: bookmarking, and the ability to change the playback speed.
Steps
1-Open the iTunes preferences and under Advanced::Importing change the import mode to ACC.
2-Start iTunes and insert the first music CD. If necessary select the applicable track name list. 3-For each chapter use shift+click to select the full chapter. Then click Advanced:Join CD Tracks.
1-Repeat step 4 for each chapter on the disk.
4-Repeat steps 1-4 for each disk.
5-Create a playlist for the imported tracks and move all of the tracks for the audiobook.
6-Go to the playlist and select all, the right-click and select Get Info.
7-Clear and check the track and CD number fields.
8-Enter the proper information into the Artist, Album, and composer. Then click ok to save changes.
For each track use the get info screen to change the track name to the chapter name and number. If any of the tracks are split
Tips
import using the podcast setting because it is optimized for voice.
this article entails how to use an iTunes gift card. You will learn about where to get one and how to actually use the credits.An iTunes gift card is not like a regular gift card. You do not have to leave the safety of your home to use it. The only things you need are a computer and an iTunes gift card. The computer must have iTunes installed in it. If it is a Macintosh computer, it already has iTunes incstalled in it.
Steps
Open up iTunes and press the iTunes Store button on the Navigation bar on the left hand side of the screen.
Check on the iTunes gift card what country of iTunes it can be used on. They are not interchangeable. So, if you are on the wrong country then go to the very bottom of the store and press My store. You will then be able to pick the country of your choice.
Scroll back up the page and go to the right hand side. You will see a box and it should say, Redeem. Press that and enter your code located on the back side of your gift card.
You may need to either sign into an iTunes account or to get one. Follow the steps that come up on the screen to do that.
Once you have an account, your money will be automatically put into your account.
Buy any of the songs, videos, audiobooks, games, TV shows, or movies of your choosing.
Tips
Don't compulsively use your whole gift card in one session. Often you may regret not being able to buy a song you really enjoy because you bought a ton of songs that you barely listen to.
Warnings
Make sure that the worker at the register activates your gift card before you leave the store. iTunes cards only work when activated.
Keep in mind that there is tax on all of the songs you buy. If you don't leave a dollar or two for tax, it'll get charged to the credit card on your account.
source:
http://www.wikihow.com/Redeem-an-iTunes-Gift-Card
Chinese website is selling iTunes gift cards that are worth up to $200 for as low as $3.
0 comments Posted by John at 10:25 AMHow is this possible? Chinese hackers managed to reverse engineer the algorithms responsible for creating iTunes voucher codes, creating fully legitimate codes that are redeemable via the iTunes store into a customer's account. The hackers have now made key generators to actually create the codes on the fly. Unfortunately for them, the codes only work in the U.S. iTunes store.
Which is why the codes are now being sold on Taobao, the largest auction site in China.
At this time, Apple hasn't made any public comments on the situation, most likely because its working on a solution to invalid the codes. Unfortunately, the codes are legitimate and are based on Apple's own algorithm for generating codes, so any attempt to alter the codes would potentially hurt all the existing cards in stores.
The cards are now starting to also appear on eBay, but for much more--around $40 for a $200 card.
What do you think of the situation? Do you feel that $0.99 is already a fair asking price for a single song and that the hackers are stepping way out of line?
Source : Tom's Hardware US