Abstract: A redemption system for redeeming a monetary instrument. The system includes a terminal that is hosted in proximity to a hosting facility and reads the monetary instrument. The monetary instrument is issued by at least one issuing facility. In this manner, the monetary instrument may be redeemed in a plurality of locations. The terminal is operable to read the monetary instrument, determine at least one corresponding item of merchandise and/or cash for which the monetary instrument may be redeemed, and dispense the corresponding at least one item of merchandise and/or cash. The hosting facility charges a service fee for redeeming the monetary instrument. The terminal includes a monetary instrument reception portion for receiving the monetary instrument and a monetary instrument reception portion that dispenses tickets and cash. A display portion and a data entry portion allow a use to view and select a desired redemption.