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Tips for Buying Gift Cards:
- Read the fine print before you buy. If you don't like the terms and
conditions, buy elsewhere.
- Ask about expiration dates and fees. The information may appear on the card
itself, the accompanying sleeve or envelope, or on the issuer's website or
another custom website. If you don't see it, ask for it in writing. Give the
information to the recipient to help protect the value of the card. It's also a
good idea to give the recipient the original receipt to verify the card's
purchase in case it is lost or stolen.
- Consider purchase fees. Is there a fee to buy or activate the card? If you buy
the card online or on the phone, is there a fee for shipping and handling? Does
expedited delivery cost more?
- Consider fees for the recipient. It might be embarrassing to give a $50 gift
card to someone if the fees significantly reduce its value.
- Check where and how the card may be used. For example, can the card be used to
get cash from ATMs? Can it be used at merchants outside the U.S.?
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Tips for Using Gift Cards:
- Read the terms and conditions as soon as you get the card and check the
expiration date.
- Record the card's ID number and the customer service telephone number, and
keep the information in a safe place until you've spent all of the money on the
card.
- If you didn't get the card's terms and conditions or original receipt, ask
for them from the person who gave you the card.
- Take care to safeguard your card. If it is lost or stolen, report it to the
customer service number immediately, supply the ID number, and request a
replacement.
- Spend the value on your card before the maintenance fees start. If your card
expires before you've had the chance to exhaust its value, contact the customer
service number. It might be possible to extend the date, although you may be
charged a fee.
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