Posts Tagged ‘gift cards’
Gift Card Tips for the Holidays
December 23rd, 2009
by Guest Blogger
Listen to a radio PSA about gift cards.
Are you tired of guessing what your friends and family want for the holidays? I know I’ve given my Dad one too many sweaters that I’ve never seen him wear. Lots of folks like me are thinking of giving gift cards this year. I’m an attorney at the Federal Trade Commission, and I’d like to share some tips for giving and receiving gift cards.
Giving Gift Cards
Buy from trusted sources. Steer clear of buying gift cards from online auction sites because the cards may be fake.
If you buy a card from a company that files for bankruptcy, the recipient may end up with a card they can’t use.
Check the expiration dates and fees for the card you’re considering. You’d hate to give a gift card only to find out that the fees ate up much of the value.
Don’t forget to give the receipt with the card in case the recipient loses the card.
Receiving Gift Cards
If you’ve received a gift card, use it quickly before you lose it or fees kick in. If your gift card is lost or stolen, you may be out the whole amount. Report it to the issuer right away.
Related Resources
Next holiday season, you’ll be able to give gift cards with even greater confidence. Additional protections will kick in to limit the ability of gift card issuers to impose fees and early expiration dates.
Check out more helpful tips on giving and receiving gift cards. Happy Holidays!
~Alysa
Tags: gift cards, holiday
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