How to Register a Visa or Mastercard Prepaid Gift Card

Prepaid Visa and Mastercard gift cards work almost like regular credit cards. You can use them at most stores, restaurants, and websites. But there is one important step many people miss: registering the card. Without registration, your gift card may be turned down at gas pumps, hotels, and many online stores. Registration takes only a few minutes and protects your money if the card is ever lost.

When you register a prepaid gift card, you are linking your name and address to the card. This is called "AVS" or Address Verification System. When you shop online, the website checks that the billing address you type in matches the address on file with the card. If they do not match, the purchase is denied. That is why so many seniors get an error message when they first try to use a new prepaid card online.

To register, look for the website printed on the back of the card. It is usually something like giftcardmall.com, vanillagift.com, or the bank that issued the card. You will need the card number, expiration date, and the 3-digit security code on the back. The website will ask for your full name, your home address, and a phone number. Some cards also ask for your date of birth.

Once you finish, the registration usually takes effect right away. You can then use the card online or at any gas pump. Keep the card itself in a safe place, and write down the website and card number separately in case the card is lost.

Never give your gift card number to anyone over the phone or by email. Real banks and stores will never ask for it. If you receive a call asking you to "verify" or "activate" your gift card by reading the numbers, hang up. That is always a scam. Only enter the card details on the official website printed on the back of the card.