What are gift cards?

Gift cards are prepaid stored-value instruments, issued by retailers or financial institutions, functioning as alternatives to cash for purchases within specific stores or related businesses. They typically appear as plastic cards or digital codes with monetary value loaded onto them.

What types of gift cards exist?

Gift cards fall into two primary categories:

• Closed-loop gift cards: Restricted to specific retailers or store chains (examples: Starbucks, Amazon, Target)
• Open-loop gift cards: Branded with payment network logos (Visa®, Mastercard®, American Express®) and accepted wherever those networks are honored

Additionally, gift cards exist in physical (plastic card) or digital (e-gift card delivered electronically) formats.

Where can gift cards be purchased?

Gift cards are available from multiple sources:

• Directly from retailers (in-store or through official websites)
• Grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores
• Bank websites and mobile banking applications
• Online gift card marketplaces (exercise caution)
• Wholesale clubs and membership stores

For optimal security, purchase from official retailers or established businesses with secure payment systems.

Do gift cards have expiration dates?

Expiration policies vary by card type and issuer:

• In the United States, federal law (Credit CARD Act of 2009) prohibits gift card expiration before five years from activation
• Many store-specific gift cards never expire
• Bank-issued gift cards typically expire (minimum 5 years)
• Some cards may assess inactivity fees after extended non-use periods

Always review the terms and conditions of your specific gift card to understand its expiration policy.

How do I use a gift card?

Usage methods depend on card type:

• Physical cards: Present at checkout in-store, or enter card number and security code for online purchases
• Digital gift cards: Use the code or card number from the email or app during online checkout
• Magnetic strip cards: Swipe at payment terminals
• Chip-enabled cards: Insert into chip readers

Many retailers allow adding gift cards to mobile wallet apps for contactless payments.

How can I check my gift card balance?

Multiple methods exist for balance verification:

• Visit the retailer's website and locate a "Gift Card Balance" section
• Call the customer service number on the card back
• Check in-store at a register or customer service desk
• Use the retailer's mobile application if available
• For bank-issued cards, visit the website printed on the card

Retain receipts as they often display remaining balances after purchases.

Can I make partial payments with gift cards?

Yes, most retailers permit partial payments with gift cards. If your purchase exceeds the gift card balance, you can typically cover the remaining amount with another payment method (cash, credit card, or additional gift card). Some online retailers may require full payment with one method, so verify their policies before ordering.

How can I protect my gift card?

Implement these protection measures:

• Retain the purchase receipt as proof of purchase
• Register the card if registration options are available
• Never share the card number, PIN, or security code
• Exercise caution with emails requesting gift card information
• Use gift cards promptly to minimize loss or theft risk
• Photograph the card's front and back as backup documentation

Treat gift cards like cash—store securely and use carefully.

What are common gift card scams?

Prevalent gift card scams include:

• Tampered cards: Scammers record card information in stores and monitor for activation
• Payment scams: Fraudsters demand gift cards as payment for fake services or bills
• Fake giveaways: Scam emails or social media posts offering free gift cards to steal information
• Verification scams: Calls claiming to verify card information that actually steal your balance
• Resale scams: Selling used or counterfeit gift cards on secondary markets

Remember: Legitimate businesses and government agencies never require payment via gift cards.

What if my gift card is lost or stolen?

If your gift card is lost or stolen:

1. Contact the retailer or card issuer immediately
2. Provide your receipt and card information if available
3. Follow the issuer's card replacement procedure
4. Prepare to show proof of purchase

Recovery options depend on issuer policies. Registered cards typically offer better protection. Some issuers may replace cards but charge replacement fees.

What is GiftDash.org?

GiftDash.org is an educational platform dedicated to providing comprehensive gift card information. We offer guides, safety tips, usage tutorials, and best practices to help consumers make informed decisions about gift cards. Our content is created by consumer education specialists and financial literacy experts.

Does GiftDash.org sell gift cards?

No. GiftDash.org operates strictly as an educational resource. We do not sell gift cards, process payments, or facilitate any gift card-related transactions. We provide information only, to help consumers make informed decisions.

How can I contact GiftDash.org?

Contact us through multiple channels:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (617) 842-3901
• Contact form on our Contact page
• Mail: 125 Summer Street, Suite 1830, Boston, MA 02110, United States

We typically respond to inquiries within 1-2 business days.