Educational resources to help you understand different types of gift cards, their features, best practices for usage, and important considerations.
Educational resources to help you understand gift cards better
Understanding the fundamental concepts of gift cards, including types, features, and common terms.
Educational information on how to keep your gift cards secure and protect yourself from common scams.
Educational content about your rights as a consumer when using gift cards, including expiration dates and fees.
Educational tips for buying, using, and managing gift cards
When buying gift cards, always purchase from authorized retailers or directly from the merchant's official website. Inspect physical gift cards for signs of tampering, and keep your receipt as proof of purchase. For digital gift cards, ensure you're on a secure website before entering payment information.
Some gift cards require registration or activation. Register your gift card on the retailer's website when possible, as this can provide protection against loss or theft. Keep activation receipts and record the card number, PIN, and customer service contact information in a secure location.
Use your gift cards promptly to avoid potential expiration or inactivity fees. When making purchases, know your card's remaining balance and whether partial payment with another method is accepted. For online purchases, enter the gift card information exactly as it appears on the card.
Keep track of your gift card balances by checking them online or by phone. Some retailers offer apps or online accounts to manage your gift cards. Consider using a gift card management app if you have multiple cards to track. Always be aware of expiration dates and any terms that might affect your card's value over time.
Quick answers to frequently asked questions about gift cards
Many gift cards in the United States cannot expire for at least five years from the date of purchase due to federal regulations. However, some cards may have inactivity fees after a certain period. Always check the specific terms for each gift card.
Most retailers do not allow returns or exchanges of gift cards for cash or other cards. However, there are third-party gift card exchange services that allow you to sell unwanted gift cards for cash, usually at a percentage of the card's value.
If your gift card is lost or stolen, contact the retailer immediately. Some retailers may replace the card if you have the receipt and card number. Registered gift cards generally offer better protection against loss or theft.
Explore our comprehensive educational resources about specific retailers, gift card types, and best practices.
