Facts About Gift Cards

Date Posted: Dec 11, 2007

Gift cards are welcomed by many and may be the perfect gift for some individuals on your shopping list. However, there are a few things you should consider before purchasing a gift card.

• Ask yourself if the recipient will be able to use the card. Is it for a store in his/her area? Is it for a store the recipieint is likely to shop at?
• Check the fine print to see if there is an expiration date on the card and note what the date is.
• Check to see if there is any kind of fee that will be deducted from the value of the card. Some cards charge an administrative or maintenance fee periodically. Avoid these cards, because they force the recipent to use the card soon or forfeit some of the value.
• Be aware that if the recipient uses the card and a small balance is left on the card, the card may become invalid.

If you receive any gift cards, make sure that you use them. Thank the giver and mention what you purchased with the card or plan to purchase. Sellers love gift card because many consumers lose the cards, forget they have them, or don't use them before the expiration date. If there is nothing that you want to purchase with the gift card for yourself, think about making a purchase you can use as a gift for someone else.