Method and apparatus for facilitating online payment transactions in a network-based transaction facility using multiple payment instruments

Abstract

A method and system for transferring value to a user of a transaction system including receiving from the user a request for value, evaluating the risk involved in providing the value by evaluating information accessible to the transaction system, selectively approving the request for value based on evaluating the risk involved, and distributing the value to the user. The information that is accessible to the transaction system may be stored at the transaction system or separated from the transaction system. The value may include funds, a line of credit, coupons, or gift certificates, and may be distributed over a period of time. The user may be a buyer or a seller.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of transferring value to a user of a transaction system, the method comprising:
 using at least one processor, receiving from the user a request for value;   evaluating the risk involved in providing said value to the user by evaluating information accessible to the transaction system;   selectively approving the request for value based on the evaluating the risk involved; and   responsive to the request being approved, distributing said value to the user.