Electronic gift linking

US7908179B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Western Union Company · US

Inventors

• Peter M. Karas · Lakewood, US
• James E. Cowell · Littleton, US
• James R. Yoder · Chicago, US
• Matt F. Golub · Atlanta, US
• Aamer Ali Baig · Elmont, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 1, 2007
• Grant date: Mar 15, 2011
• Expiry date: Dec 4, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q30/0641
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

According to the invention, a method for creating an electronic greeting card enclosing an electronic gift is disclosed. In one step, the electronic greeting card selection is received from a sender along with a selection of at least one of a type of electronic gift, an amount for the electronic gift, and an identifier for a receiver of the electronic gift. Payment for the electronic gift is received from a money handler chosen by the sender. A code indicative of the electronic gift is received, whereby the code facilitates redemption of the electronic gift. The code is embedded in the electronic greeting card.