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Vanilla Visa Gift Cards work like debit cards and can be used online and at any location in the United States or the District of Columbia that accepts Visa debit cards. They provide immediate access to the funds loaded onto them. You can use it at checkout as ‘debit’ and enter the PIN on the back or as ‘credit’ for your purchase.
Learn about the Vanilla Gift Card in this comprehensive guide.
Vanilla Visa Gift Card details
Looking for a gift for a special occasion? The Vanilla Visa Gift Card is a great choice. Here are the important details you should know about this card:
Funds and fees
You can buy a Vanilla Gift Card from $10 to $500.
- Once activated, there are no extra fees, and the funds don’t expire. Although the card itself can expire after five years. If that happens, just reach out to Vanilla for a replacement to access your remaining funds.
- Activation costs for cardholders vary depending on the dollar value and the number of cards activated, ranging from $4.95 to $9.95, as outlined in the cardholder agreement.
- When buying online, expect a purchase fee of $2.95 to $5.95, plus shipping costs.
Handy hint:
Gift cards like this are perfect for those tricky-to-shop-for individuals or when you’re uncertain about the ideal gift. Personalize them by presenting them creatively or adding a special quote to a store-bought card.
Returns and losses
If you have a receipt, you can return Vanilla Gift Cards. But you can only get a refund for the amount that hasn’t been spent. The store where you bought the card will process the return.
If you lose your card or it gets stolen, simply contact customer service to request a new one.
- If you lose funds on a gift card, unfortunately, it won’t be refunded. But if you act fast and call promptly, they can block the card to minimize your loss.
- To get a replacement, you must provide the card number and personal details, such as your name and transaction history.
- If someone uses your lost or stolen card for any unauthorized transaction, you must report it within 60 days to get help. Otherwise, they won’t be able to assist you.
Other card facts
- Vanilla Gift Cards work with digital wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay.
- You can’t withdraw cash from ATMs or get cash back at the register with these cards.
- Vanilla Visa Gift Cards cannot be reloaded.
Important information:
Vanilla Gift Cards are accepted at gas stations, but it’s best to prepay inside with an attendant. Be aware that some merchants may put a hold on your card for up to $175 or the card’s full value to ensure you have enough funds. It’s advisable to check your balance if you opt to pay at the pump.
MyVanilla Prepaid Card
Customers can opt for the MyVanilla Prepaid Mastercard or Visa Card as a money management tool instead of a regular bank account. These cards function as substitutes for traditional bank accounts.
Unlike other Vanilla products, these cards are personalized with the holder’s name and can be reloaded using Vanilla Direct Load or Walmart Rapid Reload. Users can reload up to $2,500 daily and $5,000 monthly. Plus, can get cash back like with a regular debit card, and your credit history doesn’t affect signing up for this payment option.
The MyVanilla Prepaid Card comes with several benefits:
- ATM access: Domestic transactions incur a $1.95 fee, while international transactions have a $4.95 fee. A $0.75 fee is charged for declined transactions.
- Card-to-card transfer: You can transfer funds between Vanilla Visa products online for free. There’s a $4.95 fee for transfers made over the phone with customer service.
- FDIC Insurance: Your card balance is insured by The Bancorp Bank, an FDIC member.
- Cash Back at Point of Sale: Over-the-counter cashback transactions carry a $1.95 fee.
- Text and Email Alerts: Opt-in to receive updates about your account via text and email.
- Direct deposit: Pay your paycheck directly to your card for free if your employer offers this service.
- Mobile Wallet App compatibility: Add your card to Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay, FitBit Pay, and Garmin Pay accounts.
No monthly fee is charged, but a $3.95 dormancy fee applies if the card isn’t used for 90 days. Also, there’s a $0.95 fee for all signature and PIN purchases.
If your card is lost or stolen, a $6 replacement fee is applied. For $9.95, you can choose to close the card, cash out the balance, and receive a paper check by mail.
Other Vanilla Gift Card options
The OneVanilla Prepaid Visa Card is no longer being made, but you can still find it at some stores until stocks run out. It works just like the Vanilla Visa Gift Card, meant for daily spending, but can’t be reloaded or personalized.
Managing your Vanilla Visa Gift Cards
Here are some more important details for Vanilla Gift Card users to keep in mind:
Activating your card
When you buy a Vanilla Gift Card in-store, the cashier can activate it for you during checkout. There might be an activation fee.
If you purchase it online, you can activate it by calling 1-833-322-6760 or visiting their website. You’ll need to provide your gift card number, expiration date, and security code on the back of the card.
(Note: MyVanilla Visa cards are also activated at the store and remain valid until you activate your personalized card upon receipt).
Checking the balance
Here are three ways to check your Vanilla Gift Card balance:
- Call 1-833-322-6760 or 1-800-571-1376 for Vanilla Gift, 1-877-770-6408 for One Vanilla, or 1-855-686-9513 for MyVanilla.
- Use the MyVanilla mobile app.
- Go online and enter your card number, expiration date, and CVV code at MyVanilla’s website. You’ll need to sign in to the online portal to access this option.
Important information:
Checking the balance on a Vanilla Gift Card is always free, regardless of the method you choose. However, if you have a MyVanilla Prepaid Card and opt to check your balance at an ATM, a $1.00 fee per inquiry will apply.
Customer support
If you need help with your Vanilla Visa Gift Card, you can contact customer service. Here are the numbers to call depending on your needs:
- For purchase-related questions, call 1-844-433-7898.
- For inquiries about already purchased Vanilla gift cards, call 1-833-322-6760.
- For any other issues, reach out to customer support at 1-844-433-7898.
MyVanilla cardholders can get assistance through phone and online:
- Call 1-855-686-9513 to speak with a customer service representative.
- Download the MyVanilla app on your smartphone for easy account management on the move.
Where to purchase Vanilla Gift Cards
Vanilla Gift Cards are sold at various retailers across the country, such as:
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- CVS Pharmacy
- Rite Aid
- 7-Eleven
- Sam’s Club
- H-E-B
- Speedway
- Dollar General
You can also buy Vanilla Gift Cards and Vanilla eGift Cards online, allowing you to personalize the amount of money loaded onto the card and select your preferred card design.
The bottom line
It’s important to make an informed decision before purchasing a Vanilla branded card. Take the time to carefully evaluate your needs and select the type of card that aligns with your requirements.
Don’t forget to read the fine print so that you are fully aware of all the associated costs, fees, and limitations. Doing so will help you make the best use of your card and avoid unpleasant surprises.