Debbie, when I have purchased them in the past, they usually charge you a fee, upfront, and there are no other fees attached to it. Perhaps buying it in American dollars and having to convert it to another currency is the hitch. They do have very short expiration dates, though (like 1 year) and then they start eating into the balance. That part is a rip off, for sure! The best place that I have found to purchase them is at our Mall. They can be used anywhere, and they give it to you, immediately. I'm sure there are other outlets as well. I once purchased one as a gift for a Pet Talk friend, but got it at a convenience store. After paying cash for it, they gave me a receipt with a number to call to order the card and have it mailed. And then they wouldn't let me do it. She had to call herself. Boy, was I embarassed!!!! To tell you the truth, I don't know if she ever got that thing and used it.