REBATE TRANSACTION INSTRUMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A system and method for distributing a transaction instrument is disclosed. The method may include receiving rebate parameters from a merchant; associating the rebate parameters with a transaction instrument; distributing the transaction instrument to a merchant; and activating and/or loading the transaction instrument in response to a request from the merchant thus enabling the use of the transaction instrument. The transaction instrument may be, for example, an open rebate card. The distribution of the transaction instrument may also include sending a message, in substantially real time, causing the pre-paid transaction instrument to be funded but not activated until later through an interactive voice response system, for example. In one example, an associated transaction account may be funded and activated at the time that the merchant requests activation. Furthermore, an issuer system may be suitably configured to leverage existing Travelers Cheque infrastructure for inventory and related processes.