The present invention discloses systems and methods for activating and redeeming prepaid media download cards and devices. Methods for activating prepaid media download cards may comprise storing at a central processor a media download card identifier identifying a specific prepaid media download card, inputting the prepaid media download card identifier at a merchant terminal during a purchase of the prepaid media download card, receiving at a central processor a prepaid media download card activation request, determining whether to authorize activation of the prepaid media download card based on the media download card identifier, and activating the prepaid media download card in response to a determination to authorize activation of the prepaid media download card.