Patent ID: 7243839
Filing Date: 2007-07-17
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method for distributing an open transaction instrument, in a retail environment, comprising the steps of: offering the open transaction instrument to a consumer, wherein the open transaction instrument is directly accessible by the consumer, wherein the open transaction instrument is configured to be generally accepted by merchants that are not directly affiliated with each other, and wherein the open transaction instrument does not require use of a personal identification number (PIN), wherein the open transaction instrument is associated with a transaction account, and wherein the open transaction instrument comprises a pre-paid card that is accepted at a plurality of merchants that are not directly affiliated with each other; allowing the consumer to obtain the open transaction instrument; facilitating the funding of the open transaction instrument; visibly displaying a serialized number on the open transaction instrument; and associating a randomized card number with the pre-paid card.