Get the Most out of Holiday Gift Cards

‘Tis the season for giving gifts – but also getting them. There are great ways to be sure you get the most out of presents from your loved ones, especially when those presents are store-specific gift cards.

In the past 10 years, the gift of cash cards has really taken off. Some people dislike giving cash, and these cards seem a little more personal without having to worry about getting someone the wrong game, accessory or size.

The Value

Department stores and businesses like to push these as gifts because they turn great profits out of them. American shoppers will purchase an estimated $97Billion worth of the cards this year – and if it’s anything like last year, consumers will leave approximately $9Billion USD on the cards.

You read that right. $9,000,000,000. All of that is from people who lose their cards, forget about them, or simply leave a dollar or two on the balance. Don’t be part of that $9 billion; keep track of the amount on the card and where the things are!

The Fine Print

Be sure you know if/when the card will expire and if there are any ‘activation fees’. That will be a quick look online or on the back of the card. Trust me, it’s worth it. You don’t want to find yourself a little short at the checkout line, or run out of time to use your card!

If you’re lucky enough to get a holiday card as a present, be sure you use the value and if you’re giving them, feel free to remind your friends and family about how much people leave on them every year.