What are gift cards?

Gift cards are prepaid stored-value cards, usually issued by a retailer or bank, to be used as an alternative to cash for purchases within a particular store or related businesses. They typically look like credit cards or display a specific theme related to the store where they can be used.

What types of gift cards are available?

There are primarily two types of gift cards:

• Closed-loop gift cards: These can only be used at specific retailers or store chains (like Amazon or Target)
• Open-loop gift cards: These carry payment network logos (like Visa®, Mastercard®, American Express®) and can be used virtually anywhere that accepts those payment methods

Additionally, gift cards can be physical (plastic cards) or digital (e-gift cards delivered via email).

Where can I buy gift cards?

Gift cards can be purchased from various sources:

• Directly from retailers (in-store or online)
• At grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores
• Through bank websites or mobile banking apps
• From wholesale clubs

For security reasons, we recommend purchasing from official retailers or established businesses with secure payment systems.

Do gift cards expire?

It depends on the type of gift card and the issuer's policies:

• In the United States, federal law (Credit CARD Act of 2009) prohibits gift cards from expiring before five years from the date of activation
• Some store-specific gift cards may never expire
• Bank-issued gift cards often do have expiration dates (typically at least 5 years)
• Some cards may charge inactivity fees after a certain period of non-use

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

How do I use a gift card?

Using a gift card depends on its type:

• For physical cards: Present the card at checkout in-store, or enter the card number and security code for online purchases
• For digital gift cards: Use the code or card number provided in the email or app during online checkout
• For cards with magnetic strips: Swipe the card at the payment terminal
• For cards with chips: Insert the card into the chip reader

Some retailers may also allow you to add gift cards to mobile wallet apps for contactless payment.

How can I check my gift card balance?

There are several ways to check your gift card balance:

• Visit the retailer's website and look for a "Gift Card Balance" section
• Call the customer service number printed on the back of the card
• Check your balance in-store at a register or customer service desk
• Use the retailer's mobile app if available
• For bank-issued cards, check the website listed on the back of the card

Always keep your receipts as they often show the remaining balance after a purchase.

How can I protect my gift card?

To protect your gift card:

• Keep the receipt as proof of purchase
• Register the card if that option is available
• Don't share the card number, PIN, or security code with others
• Be cautious of emails asking for gift card information
• Use gift cards promptly to reduce the risk of loss or theft
• Take a photo of the front and back of the card as a backup

Consider treating gift cards like cash—keep them in a secure place and use them carefully.

What are common gift card scams?

Common gift card scams include:

• Tampered cards: Scammers record card information in-store and wait 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 fake gift cards on secondary markets

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

What is GiftLion.org?

GiftLion.org is an educational website dedicated to providing comprehensive information about gift cards. 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 GiftLion.org sell gift cards?

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

How can I contact GiftLion.org?

You can contact us through several channels:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (415) 724-8931
• Contact form on our Contact page
• Mail: 2847 Market Street, Suite 315, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

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