Western Union has launched a new Visa prepaid gift card and greeting card offering, providing consumers in the US new ways to send the gift of money anytime of the year, including this holiday season.

According to a Western Union consumer survey, by Gfk Inc, 69% of consumers in the US are planning to give the gift of cash or a prepaid gift card, this holiday season, to friends and family.

Western Union said that the gift card can be used anywhere. The card is covered by Visa’s zero liability policy, which means cardholders are protected from unauthorized use. Once received, the recipient simply calls a toll-free number to activate the card, unlike other over the counter gift cards that are active when purchased. If lost or stolen the recipient can have the card replaced. Access to card account activity is available online.

Stewart Stockdale, executive vice president and president of The Americas for Western Union, said:“The launch of the Western Union prepaid Visa gift card complements Western Union’s consumer experience when giving the gift of cash. As a leader in money movement, we understand what consumers need and want – convenience, fast and reliable money management solutions.”