A way for children to buy things online?

Question

I am 13 and like to buy things online (e.g Habbo Coins).

My parents hate using their credit card online.

One day at the register at wal-mart I seen PrePaid Visa cards, Comming in 50 dollars and 100 dollars. I do get allowance and money from chores (e.g mowing lawn <-- Did I spell mowing right?)

Is their an age limit (this is the biggest problem)?

Do you need a bank account?

Can you use them online?

Are there any activation fees or any other fees that are taken from the card?

Is there a certain amount of money that you need to keep on the card or can you let it run out of money?

Are there fees for reloading the card?

I heard of personalized cards, Is there a such thing?

I heard the card is sent to you,Or is it in the package at walmart?

Any other information would be appreciated :D

Also if my parents where to buy one and then give it to me would it be legal?

Answer 1

You can use prepaid visas for safe online purchasing. They typically have an activation fee of $5.00 to start the card and then you can add more $$$ to the same card anytime but each company that provides them varies a little. Often times there is a $5 a month fee taken off the card every month after a year of not using it but the first 12 months are free and the timer resets every time you use the card. You do not need a bank account for a prepaid visa. There are no penalties for letting a prepaid visa go to $0.00. It is basically a gift card from a visa bank. Typically, the card does not need to come in the mail. They load the purchase amount right onto the card in the bank or in the store. There is nothing illegal about a 13 year old having a gift card. The card does not usually come with your name or anything on it (it isn&#039;t really personalized, no).

The upside is you can use one for safe purchases at most online stores. It does read like a visa card and can be used just about anywhere a typical visa credit card can. Be sure to put your signature on the back so no one else can use it.

Answer 2

Prepaid credit cards are sometimes called &quot;gift cards&quot;.  They work just like regular credit cards.  There is an upfront fee that is paid at the time the card is purchased.  For example, a $50 card may cost the purchaser $55.  I am not aware if being able to reload them, the ones I&#039;ve seen are face value only.  Also, check the fine print before you buy one; some of the cards expire if they are not completely used by a particular date.