We’re conducting participant groups for a research project based in the U.S. Typically, we would offer participants a choice between gift cards to large stores (e.g., Amazon, Walmart, Target, a regional/local chain). We aren’t able to provide cash nor can we purchase Visa gift cards. Do folks have recommendations for more ethical options? I understand there will be a tradeoff between what is ethnical and what is convenient, but we’d at least like to give participants more options and let them decide what works best for them. Thanks!
I am concerned about providing gift cards to participants from vulnerable communities for certain big-box stores, given that they are not necessarily safe spaces for some and sometimes have license readers whose data are shared.
I err on the side of do no harm.
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That’s an excellent point, Marcelle, thank you. Is there an alternative you would recommend?
One possible consideration may be a non‑reloadable Visa/Mastercard/Amex gift card. You can often use an unregistered, non‑reloadable Visa/Mastercard/Amex gift card in-store with no personal information attached, but protections are weaker if it is lost or stolen. To use a Visa/Mastercard gift card online, you usually must register a name and billing address.
I just reread your original post where you said no Visa cards. Sorry, I do not have any other suggestions to offer.
I definitely understand and have dealt with this issue before. Ultimately, I did go with Visa gift cards and budgeted for the extra activation fee. However, as a survey participant before, I’ve received incentives where I get to choose where I can use the rewards. I believe the company is called Tango Card. I liked this option because I’m not tied to a specific retailer.
Thanks @rmahika for initiating such an important conversation on a key topic regarding data equity @lindaxiong @marcelle have good points. One other idea is that the gift cards might be able to be selected based on the local context. We have in the past gotten gift cards from local grocery stores and local coffee shops or restaurants. Depending on the location, some communities have local community gift cards that can be spent in any store that belongs to the local business association. Also, sometimes when we have done national research we have used gift cards from Bookshop.org which is a single gift card that is used at local independent book stores. Good luck.
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