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 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 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 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: A rectangular, square or asymmetrically shaped credit card or phone card is provided with an associated case or holder. The card has a configuration complemcnts 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 a I-shape or non-conventionally shaped configuration.

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 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: A multiple function credit card and credit card case is provided. The credit card contains card information. A microprocessor and/or other payment or non-payment device is provided in the case and/or card and can be used with a variety of communication methods and for other functions. In a preferred form the microprocessor can communicate with external mechanisms or systems by electronic and other means such as an inductive magnetic track generator, a bluetooth wireless port, an IRDA & IR infra red port, and an RFID/ISO-14443 simulator. An LCD or other display is provided along with a button panel and/or a keyboard in various embodiments or input of data and information to the microprocessor. The microprocessor can also be used to provide the user access to a number of non-financial applications.

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.