Do's and Don'ts of Giving and Receiving Gift Cards

12/20/2010

Bookmark & Share
  • MySpace
  • Digg
  • Delicious
  • StumbleUpon

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), $23.6 billion was spent on gift cards during the 2009 holiday season with an average of $40 spent per card. The two most popular categories for gift cards were restaurants and department stores. It's no wonder why gift cards are all the rage; they are simple, fun and almost always guaranteed to please.

Unfortunately, in a down economy some consumers may try to cut corners and purchase "discounted" gift cards from auction Web sites. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) gift cards bought from such sites or classifieds often turn out to be fraudulent or stolen.

BBB's do's and don'ts for giving gift cards:

  • Don't from online auction sites – only buy gift cards from reputable retailers. Gift cards sold at online auction sites are more likely to be counterfeit or obtained by fraudulent means. It's even possible these cards could have no value when purchased.
  • Do examine gift cards closely before purchasing them at stores. Do not purchase cards that appear to have been tampered with. Criminals have been able to get info off of cards and wipe out their balances leaving you with a worthless purchase. It may be best to buy them from the customer service counter as opposed to a public rack.
  • Do read the terms and conditions that are required to be clearly disclosed on the card’s packaging prior to purchasing. Understand any associated fees and expiration dates.
  • Do give the recipient the original receipt to verify the card's purchase, in case it's lost or stolen.

BBB's do's and don'ts for receiving gift cards:

  • Do treat your card like cash. If it's lost or stolen, immediately report it to the issuer.
  • Don't wait to use your card. It's not unusual to misplace gift cards or to forget you have them. Using the card early will ensure you get its full value, as some terms deplete the balance over certain time period.

About your BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington:
Your Better Business Bureau is a not-for-profit organization funded by Better Business Bureau Accredited Businesses. The BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information about the services and products provided by your BBB, call 206-431-2222 or 253-830-2924 in Washington, 503-212-3022 in Oregon, 907-562-0704 in Alaska, or visit our Web site at www.bbb.org.

Average Rating | Rate It

Related Articles

   
 

11/26/2012

Set a Game Plan Before Gaming

Better Business Bureau reminds consumers that “Computer Software Publishers & Developers” and “Game & Supplies” companies are typically among BBB’s most-inquired-about industries

03/26/2012

Customers Tell BBB: SaveMore.com Took Money For Daily Deal Coupons, Never Delivered

More than 1,000 online shoppers from across the nation – including dozens from Missouri and Illinois – said they never received discount coupons purchased from the Texas-based deal site SaveMore.com

12/06/2011

Suggestions for Safe Shopping Satisfaction

The popularity of online shopping has increased in recent years, and Better Business Bureau wants consumers to be smart and responsible before emptying the virtual shopping cart.


z