Voucher facts for kids

A voucher is like a special ticket, usually printed on paper or sent as a digital code. It gives the person holding it a special deal, like a discount on something they want to buy. Or, it might let them get certain goods or services for free or at a reduced price. Think of it as a helpful pass that saves you money or gets you something cool!

What is a Voucher?

A voucher is a document that proves you have the right to a discount or to receive something. It's often used by businesses to encourage people to buy their products. For example, a voucher might give you 10% off a new video game or a free dessert at a restaurant.

How Vouchers Work

Using a voucher is usually very simple. First, you get the voucher. This could be from a newspaper, an email, or even a special app. Next, when you are ready to buy something or use a service, you show the voucher. If it's a paper voucher, you hand it over. If it's digital, you might show a code on your phone. The business then applies the discount or gives you the item the voucher promised.

Why Companies Use Vouchers

Companies use vouchers for many reasons. They are a great way to attract new customers. Imagine a new pizza place opening; they might offer "buy one, get one free" vouchers to get people to try their pizza. Vouchers can also help businesses sell more of a certain product. If a store has too many winter coats in summer, they might offer a voucher for a big discount to clear them out.

Types of Vouchers

There are many different kinds of vouchers, each with a special purpose.

Discount Vouchers

These are the most common type. They give you a certain amount of money off the total price. For example, a "$5 off your next purchase" voucher means you pay $5 less.

Gift Vouchers and Gift Cards

These are like pre-paid money for a specific store. Someone might give you a $20 gift voucher for a bookshop. You can then use it to buy any books up to that value. They are popular presents because they let the person choose what they want.

Meal Vouchers

Some companies give their employees meal vouchers. These can be used to buy food at certain restaurants or cafeterias. It's a way for companies to help their workers with lunch costs.

Travel Vouchers

If you cancel a flight or a trip, an airline or travel company might give you a travel voucher. This voucher can then be used to book another flight or trip with them in the future.

Government and Social Vouchers

Sometimes, governments or charities use vouchers to help people. For example, after a big event like a war, vouchers might be given to soldiers or families. These vouchers could be used for food, clothing, or other important items. The World War II British Army Forces Voucher shown below is an example of this. It helped soldiers get what they needed in specific places like canteens.

Where to Find Vouchers

Vouchers can be found in many places. You might see them in:

• Newspapers and magazines
• Online websites and apps
• Emails from your favorite stores
• Loyalty programs, where you earn points for shopping and then get vouchers
• Direct mail sent to your home

Tips for Using Vouchers

To make the most of your vouchers, remember these tips:

• Check the expiry date: Vouchers often have a date by which they must be used. Don't let them expire!
• Read the terms and conditions: Some vouchers have rules, like "minimum spend $20" or "only valid on Tuesdays."
• Know what it covers: Make sure the voucher is for the item or service you want.

Images for kids

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  This British Army Forces Voucher, issued to soldiers in Germany following World War II, may be used only in canteens or other specified transactions.