When implementing HB 353 compliant gift card payouts, you have two main options: self-service kiosks or staff-managed systems. Here's how to choose the right fit for your operation.
A standalone touchscreen terminal where players load their own gift cards without staff assistance. Think ATM-style experience.
Your existing staff uses a tablet or computer to load gift cards for players. Similar to processing a credit card payment.
Self-service kiosks put players in control. They approach the machine, follow on-screen instructions, and load their card without waiting for staff.
Players can load cards anytime, even during peak hours when staff is overwhelmed
Staff only needs to know how to reboot the machine or call support - no transaction training required
Average transaction takes 10-15 seconds. No waiting for staff to finish helping another customer
Staff can focus on other tasks while the kiosk handles payouts automatically
Modern kiosks signal that you're serious about technology and player experience
$2K-$5K+ per kiosk. Some providers offer leasing or free hardware for high-volume locations
Requires dedicated floor space and power outlet. Not ideal for cramped locations
Touchscreens, printers, and card readers can malfunction. Downtime = lost revenue
Some players (especially older demographics) prefer human interaction and may resist using kiosks
Staff-managed systems use tablets or computers behind the counter. When a player wins, staff logs in, enters the amount, and loads the card - similar to processing a credit card.
$500-$1K for tablet and accessories, or free from providers like Loop Pay. Much cheaper than kiosks
Staff can build rapport with players, answer questions, and provide white-glove service
Tablet stays behind the counter. Perfect for tight spaces
Can be operational in 1-2 days vs 1-2 weeks for kiosk installation
Software-based system with fewer moving parts. Tablets rarely break
Every employee needs training. High turnover means constant retraining
Players must wait for staff, who may be helping other customers
Staff can make mistakes entering amounts. Requires double-checking
Players can't cash out when staff is unavailable or busy
Answer these five questions to find your best fit.
Self-Service
10+ machines
Staff-Managed
1-9 machines
Self-Service
15+ payouts/day
Staff-Managed
1-14 payouts/day
Self-Service
Limited or high turnover
Staff-Managed
Dedicated staff always present
Self-Service
$2K-$5K+ per location OK
Staff-Managed
$0-$1K preferred
Self-Service
24/7 convenience store, gas station
Staff-Managed
Bar, restaurant, smaller venue
Self-Service
Plenty of room for kiosk
Staff-Managed
Limited space
You don't have to choose just one! Many operators use both methods:
Kiosk handles most transactions, but staff have a tablet to process payouts when the kiosk is down or players need help
Self-service kiosks at high-volume 24/7 locations, staff tablets at low-volume bars and restaurants
Get compliant quickly with tablets, then upgrade to kiosks once you see the volume and ROI
Pro tip: Loop Pay supports both approaches on the same platform. You can mix and match based on what works best for each location.
Yes, absolutely. Many operators start with staff-managed tablets to get compliant quickly, then add kiosks once they understand their volume and can budget for hardware. With Loop Pay, your player data and transactions carry over seamlessly.
Yes. HB 353 doesn't specify how gift cards must be loaded - only that payouts must be gift cards (or lottery tickets). Both self-service and staff-managed methods are fully compliant as long as you use a certified provider.
Most staff can learn Loop Pay's tablet system in 10-15 minutes. It's as simple as using a credit card terminal: enter amount, confirm, done. We provide video tutorials and live training during onboarding.
Loop Pay provides a staff tablet as backup. If your kiosk goes down, staff can process payouts via tablet while we arrange repairs or replacement. You're never fully offline.
Yes! Many locations use a kiosk for most transactions and staff tablets for special cases (large payouts, players who need assistance, etc.). This gives you maximum flexibility.
Talk to our team. We'll walk through your location specs, volume, budget, and player demographics to recommend the best fit. No pressure, just honest guidance.
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