Abstract: A series of time-bounded bonus rewards programs is disclosed for offering by a financial institution. Consumers enroll in each program and are thereafter provided bonus rewards on consumer purchases with a credit card on goods and services from one or more select merchant categories until the program's expiration. These bonus rewards are in addition to or in place of standard rewards the financial institution offers its customers. The selected merchant categories of the bonus rewards programs are relevant to the consumer in the given time frame in that they provide goods and services according to consumers' needs for that time of year. Incentives are thus provided to consumers to increase their use of the financial institution's credit card by providing bonus rewards on purchases that fit consumers' needs within the time frame of the program.

Abstract: A credit card case or fob with an integrated quick-release latch is provided that may be unclipped readily from a key loop, key chain or other device. The quick-release credit card case includes upper and lower cover portions and a pivot member for connecting the upper and lower cover portions. The pivot member is adapted to have at least one card mounted thereon so as to permit pivotal rotation of the card relative to the upper and lower cover portions. The upper and lower cover portions each have a slot in an outer surface thereof at mateably aligned locations to permit insertion of a key chain loop therein. A latch mounted on at least one of the cover portions is selectively movable to alternate positions exposing the radially outwardly facing opening of the slot in said cover portions and closing said radially outwardly facing opening of the slot in said cover portions.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for a customer to enroll in and manage a program for automatic payment for the recurring bills of a number of merchants within a single interface. The interface can be provided by the customer's credit card-issuing financial institution, which contacts the customer-selected merchants and arranges for automatic payment via the credit card. As an incentive for the customer's enrollment, an award such as award points or a lower rate of interest can be provided with respect to the automatically made transactions.

Abstract: An inverted tier award system for financial alternatives to currency is presented, wherein a consumer using the financial alternative to currency is rewarded based on the purchases made by the consumer within a given time frame. Award rates can vary based on the total value of purchases made within a given time frame, with higher award rates assigned to lower value ranges to motivate those consumers to increase their purchases made using the financial alternative to currency. Additionally, higher award rates at lower value ranges can increase consumer loyalty and provide consumers access to their awards more quickly and more often. The award rates or award access can be modified to achieve greater profitability or to further other goals of the implementing organization.

Abstract: A cash rebate award system with increased payout options is presented, wherein a consumer using a financial alternative to currency is rewarded based on the purchases made by the consumer within a given time frame, and is allowed to electronically transfer the award into any number of banking or investment accounts. A standard electronic currency transfer system, such as the ABA routing number system, or the ACH routing system, can be used so as not to limit the accounts into which the consumer can transfer their award. Consumers can also choose to transfer their award to multiple accounts, or accounts belonging to others, such as family or charities. Account information can also be saved for more efficient subsequent transfers, and automated transfers can also be set up by the consumer.

Abstract: A non-rectangular or asymmetrically shaped credit card or phone card with an associated case or holder. The card has a configuration that complements the configuration of the case so that the card is easily removed from the holder for access, yet is maintained inside the case in a covered position and is protected from abuse. The case is designed to be light-weight and easily carried and to serve as a device to carry the card in a safe and convenient manner outside of a wallet or purse. Alternatively, the card may be in an I-shape or square shape configuration.

Abstract: A machine is provided for cutting credit cards, debit cards or special value cards to an unconventional size or shape or alternatively to a smaller rectangular size. The machine includes a feed device, a first conveyor with a plurality of nests for receiving cards from the feed device and transporting them individually to a cutting station, a cutting device for cutting the cards and a delivery device for removing the cut cards from the cutting station.