Abstract: Methods and systems coordinate an Internet-based financial transaction between an Internet merchant and a customer. A first information packet is received with a payment network from the Internet merchant. The first information packet has a credential assigned to the customer and transaction information specifying at least a cost of the Internet-based financial transaction. With the payment network, account information is determined that identifies a financial account maintained by the customer at a financial institution and authorization information that allows debit access to the identified financial account. A second information packet that includes the transaction information, the account information, and the authorization information is generated with the payment network.

Abstract: A method of providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, delivering the postcard presentation instrument to a destination via a distribution system, and settling a transaction involving the postcard presentation instrument. A system for providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes a processing system for applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, and a host computer system that receives a request to activate the postcard presentation instrument.

Abstract: A method of including a gift card in a mailing to a customer includes receiving a request to include gift cards in mailings to each member of a group comprising one or more customers. The group includes the customer. The method also includes preparing the mailing. The mailing includes the gift card and the gift card is inactive. The method further includes sending the mailing to the customer and receiving a request from the customer to activate the gift card. The request includes an identifier of the gift card and payment for an amount of value to be assigned to the gift card. The method further includes settling a transaction involving the gift card and a recipient of the gift card. The recipient and the customer are different.