Exemplary embodiments relate to secure documents that are capable of being in an activated or deactivated state. When in the activated state, the document may be redeemable; when in the deactivated state, the document may not be redeemable. The document may be issued in the deactivated state and may require activation before being used. In order to activate the document, a user may log into an account associated with the document and scan a code printed on or embedded in the document. Using their account, the user may issue an activation command. This activation process ensures that, at the time the document is transferred, it is either in the presence of the user or the user is aware of the location of the document, and that the user wishes to authorize the transfer. Thus, even if the document is stolen or misplaced, it cannot be used without the requisite authorization.