Valokaarta

Valokaarta is a category of stored-value payment instruments designed to hold a preloaded monetary balance that can be used to purchase goods and services from participating merchants or services. It is commonly described in various languages as a value or prepaid card.

Typically issued as a physical card with magnetic stripe or chip, and often also available as a digital or virtual card in a mobile wallet. Transactions are completed by presenting the card at checkout, tapping a contactless reader, or entering the card number if needed.

Top-up and balance management: value is loaded by the cardholder at retail outlets, online, or through a mobile app; some programs support automatic or recurring top-ups. Balances may expire or be subject to maintenance and inactivity fees, depending on issuer.

Uses and limitations: valokaartas are used for retail purchases, gift card programs, transit fares, and online subscriptions. They provide spending control but usually cannot be used beyond the loaded balance unless linked to a separate funding source.

Security and consumer protection: programs implement protections such as PINs, card locking, or reporting of lost cards; terms vary by issuer and jurisdiction. Replacing or transferring a balance after loss may require identification.

Regulation and market context: valokaarta programs are typically treated as prepaid payment instruments under financial regulations in many countries, with oversight covering consumer rights, privacy, and anti-money laundering.