Player Experience: Why Gift Cards Beat Cash for COAM Winnings
Worried about how players will react to the switch from cash? Here's why most players actually prefer gift card payouts.
One of the biggest concerns operators have about HB 353 is player reaction. "My players are used to cash," they say. "They won't like the change."
Here's the surprising truth: when implemented well, most players actually prefer gift card payouts. Let's look at why.
The Player Perspective
To understand player preferences, you need to think about what players actually do with their winnings:
- Buy gas on the way home
- Pick up groceries for the week
- Grab dinner at a restaurant
- Pay bills online
- Shop online for items they need
Notice what's missing? Very few players take their cash winnings and stuff it in a mattress. They spend it—at places that accept Visa and Mastercard.
Why Gift Cards Win on Convenience
1. Use It Anywhere
With a Visa/Mastercard gift card, players can spend their winnings at millions of locations nationwide:
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
- Online shopping
- Bill pay services
Compare this to lottery tickets, which can only be redeemed at lottery retailers. The flexibility difference is enormous.
2. Exact Amounts Every Time
Cash payouts often involve awkward rounding. Win $37.50? Hope you don't mind getting $35 or $40. With gift cards, players get exactly what they won—down to the penny.
3. No Waiting for the Safe
How many times have players had to wait while staff accessed the safe or counted out bills? With digital gift cards, loading is instant. The player is on their way in seconds.
4. Safer Than Cash
Walking out of a gaming location with a pocket full of cash makes some players nervous. A gift card balance is protected—if the card is lost, the balance can often be recovered.
What Players Say About Loop Pay
"I can use it right at the gas station next door. Way easier than finding somewhere to break a bunch of twenties."
— Regular player, Atlanta area
"Love that I can check my balance on my phone. I know exactly what I've got."
— Regular player, Macon area
Addressing Player Concerns
Some players will have questions. Here's how to address common concerns:
"I want cash, not a gift card."
Response: "I understand—this is new. But this card works just like cash at any store that takes Visa. You can use it at the gas station, grocery store, restaurants, or even online. Millions of places."
"What if I lose the card?"
Response: "Unlike cash, if you lose your card, your balance is protected. You can get it recovered through the app."
"Are there any fees?"
Response: "Using your card at stores and online is free. There may be small fees for certain transactions like ATM withdrawals, but everyday purchases have no fees."
"Can I get cash from this?"
Response: "You can use ATMs, though there may be a small fee. Most players find it easier to just use the card directly—it works everywhere."
Features Players Love
Modern gift card solutions like Loop Pay include features that enhance the player experience:
Mobile App
- Check balance anytime
- View transaction history
- Find nearby redemption locations
- Receive notifications
Instant Loading
No waiting for winnings to become available. As soon as they're loaded, they're ready to spend.
Balance Accumulation
Players can build up their balance over multiple sessions—something not easily done with cash payouts.
The Transition Period
The first few weeks after switching from cash will require extra communication. Here's how to smooth the transition:
Before the Switch
- Post signage explaining the upcoming change
- Train staff to explain benefits enthusiastically
- Have printed materials available
During the Switch
- Be patient with questions
- Offer extra assistance to first-time users
- Follow up to ensure players understand how to use their cards
After the Switch
- Collect player feedback
- Address any issues quickly
- Celebrate positive feedback with your team
The 2-Week Rule
Most players adapt to new payout methods within two weeks. After that initial period, gift cards become "how we've always done it" in their minds. Push through those first two weeks with great service, and you'll have converted players.
Turning Compliance Into Competitive Advantage
Smart operators are reframing HB 353 compliance as an upgrade for players:
- "We've upgraded to a new payout system that's more convenient for you."
- "Your winnings now work everywhere—not just here."
- "We're investing in better technology to serve you better."
This positive framing makes the transition feel like an improvement rather than a restriction.
The Bottom Line
Yes, change can be uncomfortable. But the data is clear: players who experience well-implemented gift card payouts prefer them to cash. The key is implementation—choose the right provider, train your staff well, and communicate benefits clearly.
Don't let fear of player reaction delay your HB 353 compliance. Your players will adapt—and many will thank you for the upgrade.
Give Your Players the Best Experience
Loop Pay is designed with players in mind. Instant loading, universal acceptance, and a mobile app they'll love. Give your players an upgrade.