In Canada, Vanilla Prepaid cards are designed to be activated by the cashier at the time of purchase. This means you generally do not need to take any additional steps to activate the card yourself.
To activate a Vanilla Prepaid Card in Canada, you typically have two options:
1. Activation at Purchase (In‑Store)
No extra steps needed — when you buy a Vanilla Prepaid card at a retailer (gift card, drugstore, gas station, etc.), the cashier activates it at checkout. It’s typically ready for use immediately.
2. Activation for Online Purchases (When Required)
Some situations—like online shopping or card registrations—require activation or registration via web or phone:
Via Website: Visit balance.vanillagift.com to activate and/or check your balance.
By Phone: Use the toll-free number listed on your card (commonly 1‑833‑322‑6760) to activate or check balance.
3. Wait Time—Sometimes There
While many cards work instantly after purchase, digital or e‑gift cards may require a short delay (e.g., up to 24 hours) for activation.
How do I use my Vanilla Prepaid Card?
Simply present your Prepaid Card at the time of payment. Press “credit” on the keypad and sign the receipt. As you use your Card, the balance is reduced by the full amount of each purchase including taxes, charges, and other fees, if any. You can use your Prepaid Card to pay the full amount of the purchase and applicable taxes, as long as the balance on the Card is sufficient.
If you want to make a purchase for an amount greater than the remaining balance by using two payment methods, you must notify the merchant before completing the transaction. Not all merchants may accept split transactions. Your Prepaid Card may not be used to pay at the pump at some fuel stations (unless prepaid product is restricted for diesel purchases).
– New Anti-money laundering restrictions in the European Union have placed spending limits on prepaid cards issued outside of EU (Canada):
– Online* and in-person spend in the EU is limited to 50€ per transaction.
– Multiple transactions can be made as long as each one is under 50€.
How can I access my full Vanilla Prepaid Card information?
Log in to your account by visiting the Manage Card page or call the number listed on the back of your Card. Remember, merchants may not be able to check the balance on your card, so it is better to be aware of it before you spend.
How to register a vanilla prepaid Visa card?
On the balance checker, enter your 16-digit gift card number, your 3-digit CVV number, and the expiration date in the appropriate fields, and click the “Sign in” button. On the next page which will be your account history page, click on “Register Your Card”.
Know Your Balance
It’s a good idea to know your balance before you shop. You can easily check your Prepaid Card balance online by logging in to your account or calling the phone number listed on the back of your Card.
