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Old Oct 5, 2014, 1:54 pm
FlyerTalk Forums Expert How-Tos and Guides
Last edit by: ANC RED-EYE
This thread is closed and contains historic discussion up to 12/31/14. The current thread is here: Prepaid REDcard (Target) 2015

Read the wiki and especially the FAQ before posting a question.
It's a literacy test that's easy to pass.


https://amex.serve.com/prepaidredcar...prepaidredcard


    Redbird (Target Prepaid REDcard)
    Cash loading at Target: ** - $2,500/day and $5,000/month
    Online Debit Card Load * - $200/day and $1,000/month
    Checking/Savings Account - $2,000/month
    Checks - $2,000/day and $10,000/month
    ATM Withdrawals - $750/day and $2,000/month




    All "Monthly" limits are per calendar month and reset on the 1st of each month.

    *For online debit load, only use of bank-issued cards is allowed. The use of pre-paid debit cards (Netspend, Paypower, Univision, Paypal, etc.) and VGC/MGC/AGCs is not allowed. Your account will be flagged upon first/second attempt.

    **As of 12/18/14, "Cash" load at target also includes in-store loads by any Credit/Debit card normally accepted at Target

    ATM Withdrawals:
    $0 ATM usage at US Target stores* and over
    43,000 US Allpoint network ATMs (ATM usage not available at any other ATMs) Find an Allpoint ATM at: $0 from a Checking or Savings Account
    www.allpointnetwork.com

    Redbird is currently only available in the following states:
    Alabama
    Arizona
    California (YMMV)
    Colorado
    Indiana
    Maryland
    Massachusetts
    Michigan
    Minnesota (Minneapolis YMMV)
    Mississippi
    New Mexico
    North Carolina
    Ohio (Cleveland area only)
    Oklahoma
    Pennsylvania (note for fellow Pennsylvanians: west PA only)
    South Carolina
    Tennessee
    Virginia
    Wisconsin

    You can check which participating Target locations carry the temp Redbird card for purchase
    https://amex.serve.com/prepaidredcar...#store-locator

    FAQ
    Q: Can I reload a RB at a Target that doesn't sell RB?
    Yes. However, the cashier may not know how to do it. You may be able to coach them through it by saying "It's like reloading a Starbucks (or Gift) card". For step-by-step instructions on one method of 'coaching' new cashiers see Post#1904

    Q: Can I buy or reload a RB in North Carolina?
    Some users report issues with RB in NC however already activated RBs from other states have been successfully loaded via CC at Targets around Raleigh

    Q: Can I reload the RB at any register, or just at the Customer Service desk?
    It can be done at any register, however some cashiers are uncomfortable doing so. If asked to go to the CS desk, smile and say "thank you" and do the load at the CS desk. Target CS desk employees are infinitely more friendly than the Walmart MC employees. It is painless and pleasant!

    Q: What is the most efficient way to drain a Redbird?
    There are differing opinions but the general consensus is that your best option is to simply use the RB Billpay feature to pay off the credit card you used to load with. Some people frown on this, thinking it creates a suspicious 'closed loop'. If you are uncomfortable with this, consider paying off a second, unrelated CC using the BB Billpay feature. The general consensus is that Billpay is less of a red flag than doing ATM withdrawals.

    Q: I cant access the BillPay feature through the RB website!
    Verify that your account information correctly reflects a 10-digit phone number (including area code). Numerous people have reported that their account only had a 7-digit phone number (no area code) and that, after updating to a 10-digit phone number, BillPay miraculously started working.

    Q: Can we buy a temporary Redbird card while we still have a Bluebird or Serve account?
    YES

    Q: How many Redbird cards can you purchase at once?
    You can only purchase one Redbird card a day per SSN. If you plan to purchase more than one, be sure to use a different SSN for each purchase to avoid activation issues.

    Q: Can we register our temporary Redbird online while we still have a Bluebird or Serve account?
    NO.
    You will have to cancel your Bluebird or Serve account first before registering.


    Q: How do I cancel my BlueBird or Serve Account online? Do I need to call them?
    Frequent Miler posted a useful trick that will help you cancel online: How to cancel Bluebird online This works for both BlueBird and Serve.

    Q: Cancelled Bluebird, why does registering Redbird error out saying Bluebird is still active?
    If you have open transactions that have not been settled, like BillPay checks that have not yet been cashed, the account cannot settle and will not be truly closed. Thus Target will reject it until it's permanently closed.

    Q: Can we get Redbird online?
    NO.
    The only way to get Redbird is to find a participating Target store and buy a temporary card there.
    Some people have purchased RB on Ebay, Amazon, or through private deals. Be aware that doing so may violate the TOS of one or more of these services. Also be aware that buying an un-activated RB, you are potentially buying "stolen" merchandise; the seller *may* have simply taken the un-activated RB cards from a target store without permission. At best they got permission from a low-level employee; they certainly are not getting permission from someone authorized to allow sale of RB outside of the current Target-authorized roll out markets. It is highly recommended to only buy already activated Redbirds because many Targets which do not offer Redbirds also will not be able to activate them and you will spend a month with the Customer Service line trying to get a new one.

    Q: Can we load Redbird with VGCs/debit cards at Target?
    YES

    Q: Can we load Redbird with credit cards at Target?
    YES
    It is possible that Target has plans to change the register to not allow credit cards, but I don’t think that’s the case.


    Q: Can we load Redbird with Target gift cards at Target?
    NO.
    When loading, the register displays a large message saying that gift cards cannot be used to pay for this transaction.


    Q: What are the card’s load limits per transaction at Target?
    When reloading the card at Target a $1000 maximum reload per Redbird swipe, $2500 per transaction per day is in place. This is inclusive of all payment types (Ex: if you load $25 from a VGC in one transaction, you can only load $2475 from any other payment source)
    The Target systems have not been stopping anyone from charging above the daily limits but the money just "disappears" (see below)

    update: Many have been able to load more than $1000 in a single credit card transaction. For example, cashier will swipe to load $1000 to RedBird, then cashier swipes to load another $1000 to Redbird, then the cashier will do a final swipe of Redbird to load $500. The purchaser can then swipe their CC on the customer terminal to pay for all three loads in one $2500 credit card transaction. This works up to the limit of $2500 per day. More details available here: Post#1904

    Update: As of 12/26, some people have reported issues with not receiving full credit for multiple RB reloads in a single CC transaction as specified in the previous update. Always check your receipt to verify that it accurately shows your RedBird "New Balance" increasing with each successive load. This seems to be associated with loading above the daily limit of a temp or perm card (there is no error indicating this or any message at all) Correcting the problem *may* be possible if caught immediately. Otherwise, your only option may be to dispute the transaction with your CC issuer.

    Q: Do the CC loads count as cash advances?
    While we don’t yet have absolute proof of this, I’m confident in saying “no”. The charges I’ve done so far fully appear to be purchases. And, previous experience with the similar Amex for Target card has shown that credit cards are safe to use for register reloads at Target.
    As of 12/31/2014: Loading with Citi credit cards post as purchases

    Q: Can someone else buy a Redbird card for you?
    Yes. When you buy a temp Redbird card at Target, you have to give them your drivers license info, your SSN (can be any set of numbers, does not need to be real), birthdate, and more. Then, you have to register the card online in order to get a permanent card. In the process of registering online, they ask for the birthday of the original buyer on the first screen, but you can put your own and it will still work. Either way, you can still change the details on the following screens. I did this for my wife. I bought the card at Target and used my own driver’s license, SSN, etc. But, when I got home, I registered the card to my wife. I can’t promise this will work for everyone, but it worked for me.

    Q: Can you reload Serve at Target?
    NO.
    Since Serve and Redbird are on the same technology platform, and since you can reload Serve at Walmart (like Bluebird), it seems reasonable to assume that it would work at Target as well. I tried a Serve card, but it didn’t work. So, the answer for now is NO. It won’t surprise me, though, if that changes in the future.


    Q: How do I contact Target's support team to resolve an issue with my RedCard?
    Call Target's Prepaid Resolution Team, their direct telephone number is 800 438 6468 (open from 8AM to 430PM MST).

    Q: Can you have both Redbird and AFT cards?
    YES.
    You can have both Redbird and AFT since they are independent products.


    Q: I got a "Pending" notice that the registration is being reviewed, what now?
    Add [email protected] to your address book, and check your spam folder for an email about it. You can also call in. They will need images or faxes of:
    • Social Security Documentation (must clearly show full 9 digit Social Security Number). Choose 1 of the following options:
    ◦ Social Security Card, OR
    ◦ A Medicare insurance card
    Plus...
    • Picture ID
    ◦ A valid driver's license card OR
    ◦ A valid state issued ID OR
    ◦ A valid United States Government ID Card (e.g. Green Card) OR
    ◦ A valid United States Passport (photo page only)
    Original FAQ by FrequentMiler. Significant subsequent clarifications and enhancements by FT community.
    ===============================================
    Q: How to swipe $2500 at a time and add a small purchase

    A:Originally Posted by Carl Christensen http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/manuf...l#post23944354
    Originally Posted by Carl Christensen
    Carl's updated guide to achieve non even numbers:

    Go through express/regular check out. Why? Their screen faces you. I have an excel spread sheet printed off showing the number I want to load. Somehow, having a print off and pointing at the numbers causes more confidence and less questions.

    1. hand card and tell them to swipe bar up and that you plan on having them swipe three times for three loads
    2. tell them 1000
    3. Warning that Target Gift Cards may not be used - they press K1 (after I train them they keep their hand hovering over K1 for more loads)
    4. Glance at their screen to check that it shows the load (it will show a line item with 1000 etc)
    5. Tell them to swipe again
    6. Repeat 2,3,4,5
    7. repeat 2 (500 this time), 3,4
    8. Hand them a pack of gum or pop and ask them to scan it (important this is done last and not first. If done first it will just pay)
    9. They might have to hit a final key I'm not sure, but I tell them I'm ready to pay
    10. I swipe my credit card
    11. show last 4 of card to them to type in
    12. After a pause (sometimes longer than others) it prints off a receipt.
    13. If your card is denied the screen will change from light blue to red. At this point I will tell them to cancel and I go sit down on the bench in front of them to call card company.
    14. Check your receipt immediately to make sure you see successful 3 loads.
    15. Step out of line and complete record keeping and then go back through line again for next red card.

    This process yields one cc charge that is a non even number.

    I sometimes do non even numbers (937.23 ie) if that is how much is left to meet minimum spend on my cc before I go to the next CC.

    If your total load is small enough (13x.xx did not require), it does not require them typing in the last 4 digits.

    Secure Document Upload
    Here's the link to upload secure documents to REDcard:

    https://secure.prepaidredcard.com/User/SecureFileUpload
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    Prepaid REDcard (Target) 2014

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    Old Oct 17, 2014, 3:05 pm
      #241  
     
    Join Date: Jul 2012
    Location: NYC
    Programs: Airline independent, Hilton Diamond, IHG Plat
    Posts: 170
    Originally Posted by bigugly
    I wasn't able to buy this at the other Target stores in my area either. An error message similar to "prepaid card must be scanned at the front lane" appears on the terminal both at the register and the front desk. I talked to a manager, who was excited about the product and was eager to sell them, but said they were blocked from selling them until some "system issues" were worked out. I'm guessing the issues are related to what some of you encountered AFTER buying.
    Where were you trying to buy?

    Or, better yet, anybody buy in Baltimore successfully?
    unifer is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 3:13 pm
      #242  
     
    Join Date: Oct 1999
    Location: Cheese Country and Koh Samui, Thailand
    Programs: DL Diamond MM, Hyatt Globalist, Marriott Titanium, Hilton Diamond . www.chicagosemianrs.org
    Posts: 536
    Wisconsin is Milwaukee area only. Also, I bought in a state that is different from what is listed on my DL, which is a state that does not offer RB.

    Purchase state: WI
    DL state: LA (state not offering RB)

    $5 fee also.
    ChrisMoss7 is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 6:42 pm
      #243  
     
    Join Date: May 2013
    Posts: 85
    I got mine in Menominee Falls WI. Had an error spit out when i bought it stting card not activated. Took my chances and couldn't register. Called AMEX and had to fax receipt, card, package and ID. 2 hours later I was activated! Now patiently waiting the 7-10 days to get perm card and go to local Target and get perplexed looks as I try to load
    jayfi1976 is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 7:39 pm
      #244  
     
    Join Date: Sep 2014
    Posts: 51
    Does anyone know if you can do a CC load at a non participating store? Say for example you got the temporary card at a AZ store, had it mailed to you in California, can you do a target load at a non participating CA store?
    letopeto is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 7:49 pm
      #245  
     
    Join Date: Apr 2013
    Posts: 250
    Originally Posted by letopeto
    Does anyone know if you can do a CC load at a non participating store? Say for example you got the temporary card at a AZ store, had it mailed to you in California, can you do a target load at a non participating CA store?
    This is what I'm thinking of doing also. Taking a trip down to AZ from CA to get their card. Also, it's been confirmed you can load the card even at stores not selling the card.
    Gammachu is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 7:51 pm
      #246  
     
    Join Date: Dec 2013
    Posts: 3,507
    Originally Posted by letopeto
    Does anyone know if you can do a CC load at a non participating store? Say for example you got the temporary card at a AZ store, had it mailed to you in California, can you do a target load at a non participating CA store?
    Does anyone read the wiki anymore? The answer is in there for one of the FAQ questions. There is a reason why there is a wiki in the first place so questions like this don't keep getting asked OVER AND OVER.

    And I hate it when ppl reference other Targets as "non-participating". Its not that they chose not to participate in this program, its just that Target hasn't chosen them yet.
    ericdabbs is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 8:40 pm
      #247  
     
    Join Date: Sep 2005
    Programs: Northwest, United
    Posts: 3,256
    (facepalm)

    nwflyboy is offline  
    Old Oct 17, 2014, 8:57 pm
      #248  
     
    Join Date: Jan 2012
    Programs: DL, WoH
    Posts: 1,253
    Originally Posted by bigugly
    I wasn't able to buy this at the other Target stores in my area either. An error message similar to "prepaid card must be scanned at the front lane" appears on the terminal both at the register and the front desk. I talked to a manager, who was excited about the product and was eager to sell them, but said they were blocked from selling them until some "system issues" were worked out. I'm guessing the issues are related to what some of you encountered AFTER buying.
    You must be in NC. System issues galore here. I've tried 3 times now at 3 different targets. I'm done trying for a week or 2 until they iron this crap out. Hope someone from NC can by this sometime soon before CC loads die.
    ricohitman is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 7:04 am
      #249  
     
    Join Date: Mar 2012
    Posts: 350
    Prepaid REDcard (Target)

    Is there an age restriction for who can get a Red card?
    NetBrowser07 is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 7:21 am
      #250  
     
    Join Date: May 2014
    Posts: 26
    Is there a thread regarding the american express for target card? or can someone tell me if this strategy still works for manufactured spending. We live in St. Louis (the above picture of a "Cardinals" fan is embarrassing .we have many of "those" people here), and Missouri Target does not have this new REDbird card yet. So in the mean time, I want to get familiar with the American Express for Target card. Any advise, would be so greatly appreciated =))
    sfriann32003 is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 7:26 am
      #251  
     
    Join Date: Dec 2013
    Posts: 73
    Originally Posted by unifer
    Where were you trying to buy?

    Or, better yet, anybody buy in Baltimore successfully?
    any luck?

    Im headed to the Laurel store right now to see if I can get one.
    RelaxPreppy is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 8:50 am
      #252  
     
    Join Date: Dec 2013
    Posts: 73
    Just bought two prepaids at laurel.... Loaded with $25 each and then liquidated them with target purchases
    RelaxPreppy is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 9:40 am
      #253  
     
    Join Date: Aug 2013
    Posts: 142
    Originally Posted by rabatt
    After making three posts about the doubtfulness of getting your $500 back, will you post again if and when you do get it back?
    Checked the card again and was still unable to swipe or register.

    Had to go back to the Target I bought them at.
    CSR swiped it and said it wasn't activated and couldn't be activated.
    CSR called Target IT Support? and talked to them for 5-10 minutes about it.
    CSR swiped card again, a receipt printed out, said it was something for Target.
    CSR attempted to void entire transaction but unable due to purchase was 7 days ago.
    CSR could not do refund due to item not refundable.
    CSR calls Amex and they say the card is active and there is a $500 balance on the card.

    What exactly fixed the card? My best guess is that one of the swipes to activate the card did it, even though it said it couldn't activate.
    binnycode is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 9:45 am
      #254  
     
    Join Date: Aug 2013
    Posts: 142
    Originally Posted by NetBrowser07
    Is there an age restriction for who can get a Red card?
    "Target Prepaid REDcard by American Express Accounts available to U.S. residents who are over 18 years old only (or 19 in certain states) and for use virtually anywhere American Express® Cards are accepted worldwide, subject to verification."

    Originally Posted by sfriann32003
    Is there a thread regarding the american express for target card?
    There sure is! Try a search, or better yet try looking at the threads in Manufactured Spend sub-forum. Hint: it's on the first page.
    binnycode is offline  
    Old Oct 18, 2014, 10:57 am
      #255  
     
    Join Date: May 2012
    Posts: 150
    QUOTE=unifer;23694035]Where were you trying to buy?

    Or, better yet, anybody buy in Baltimore successfully?[/QUOTE]

    Finally have gotten 3 cards(my name, wife and father) activated and working
    In Baltimore. Took a while to get the glitches worked out. 1st card I bought, received the error St end of transaction. Was told to wait 7-10 days and card would be activated. $500 showed up on the card and was activated 4 days later. My wife got the 2nd card which activated immediately without issues. I activated the 3rd card after verifying documentation in about 5 minutes. The first card I bought (the one with the glitch) was used to put in my father's name. Called to close his BB and registered the card almost immediately. Then, tested the cards by withdrawing funds from ATM (with temporary cards) 2 at Target stores and one at an Allpoint ATM.... No issues. All funds were withdrawn. Now, waiting for the permanent cards to arrive to get to work! With these cards and my Target Amex cards.... I'll be seeing lots of the big red dot for the foreseeable future.

    BTW... you're near the Baltimore /DC/northern VA area and can't find a any cards. Hop onto 29N to Target in Ellicott City.... They are Loaded with them In virtually every register lane.
    frogdog51 is offline  


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