Find answers to the most common questions about gift cards. From basic information to advanced topics, our comprehensive FAQ section covers everything you need to know about purchasing, using, and protecting your gift cards.
General Gift Card Questions
What is a gift card?
A gift card is a prepaid stored-value payment card, typically issued by a retailer or financial institution, that can be used as an alternative to cash for purchases. Gift cards can be physical plastic cards or digital codes, and they come with a predetermined monetary value that can be spent at specific stores or anywhere the card network is accepted.
What are the different types of gift cards?
There are several main types of gift cards:
Closed-Loop Gift Cards: Can only be used at specific retailers or restaurant chains (e.g., Target, Starbucks, Amazon)
Open-Loop Gift Cards: Carry major payment network logos (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and can be used anywhere those networks are accepted
Digital/E-Gift Cards: Electronic versions delivered via email or mobile app with unique redemption codes
Multi-Merchant Gift Cards: Valid at multiple retailers within a shopping center or retail group
Promotional Gift Cards: Issued as rewards or incentives by companies
Do gift cards expire?
In the United States, the Credit CARD Act of 2009 provides strong consumer protections regarding gift card expiration:
Gift cards cannot expire for at least five years from the date of purchase or last reload
Most retail gift cards don't expire at all
Bank-issued open-loop cards may have expiration dates but must be valid for at least 5 years
Promotional cards may have different rules (check terms carefully)
International cards may follow different regulations
Always check the specific terms and conditions for your gift card to understand its expiration policy.
Purchasing Gift Cards
Where is the safest place to purchase gift cards?
The safest sources for gift card purchases are:
Directly from the retailer: Purchase in-store at the retailer's location or from their official website
Authorized sellers: Major retailers like grocery stores, pharmacies, and big-box stores that keep cards in secure displays
Official bank websites: For network-branded cards issued by financial institutions
Reputable gift card exchanges: Established platforms with buyer protection (though typically for discounted cards)
Avoid purchasing gift cards from online auction sites, classified ads, or third-party sellers offering significant discounts, as these may be scams or involve stolen cards.
How can I tell if a gift card has been tampered with?
Look for these warning signs of potential tampering:
Scratched-off or damaged PIN protection areas
Torn, resealed, or damaged packaging
Missing or broken security seals
Evidence that the card has been removed and replaced in the package
Barcodes that appear altered or have stickers over them
Cards displayed in easily accessible, unsecured areas
Packaging that doesn't match other cards of the same brand
When purchasing physical gift cards, carefully inspect each card and choose ones from secure displays or from behind the checkout counter when possible.
What should I do if I suspect a gift card scam?
If you believe you've encountered a gift card scam, take these immediate steps:
Contact the gift card issuer or retailer immediately to report the suspicious activity
File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov
Report the incident to your local police department or law enforcement
If you purchased the card with a credit card, contact your credit card company to dispute the charge
Save all documentation including receipts, communications, and transaction records
Report phone scams to the FCC at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
Remember: Legitimate government agencies, utilities, and businesses never demand payment via gift cards.
Using Gift Cards
How do I check my gift card balance?
There are several ways to check your gift card balance:
Online: Visit the retailer's or issuer's website and look for "Check Balance" or "Gift Card Balance" section. You'll need the card number and PIN/security code.
Phone: Call the customer service number printed on the back of the card
In-Store: Ask a cashier or customer service representative to check the balance for you
Mobile App: Many retailers offer apps that allow balance checking and card management
Receipt: Some retailers print the remaining balance on purchase receipts
Can I use multiple gift cards for one purchase?
The ability to use multiple gift cards depends on the retailer and purchase method:
In-Store: Most retailers allow you to use multiple gift cards for a single transaction
Online: Policies vary—some retailers limit the number of cards per transaction (often 3-5 cards)
Combining with other payment: Most retailers allow you to use gift cards in combination with other payment methods
Splitting transactions: Some retailers may require separate transactions if you exceed their gift card limit
Check the specific retailer's gift card policy before making large purchases using multiple cards.
Can I transfer my gift card balance to another person?
Transfer options depend on the card type and retailer policy:
Physical Gift Cards:
Can typically be given to anyone (treat like cash)
Some registered cards may require account transfer
Keep the receipt and card information secure during transfer
Digital/E-Gift Cards:
Can usually be forwarded via email (check terms)
Some retailers allow balance transfers between accounts
Be cautious when sharing card codes digitally
Registered/Personalized Cards:
May require contacting customer service to transfer
Some cards cannot be transferred once registered
Always verify the specific retailer's policy before attempting a transfer.
Gift Card Fees & Policies
Are there fees associated with gift cards?
Fee structures vary by card type:
Retail Gift Cards: Typically no fees for purchase, activation, or usage
Network-Branded Cards: May include:
Purchase/activation fees ($3.95-$6.95)
Monthly maintenance fees (after 12 months of inactivity)
Balance inquiry fees
Replacement card fees
Digital Gift Cards: Usually no additional fees
The Credit CARD Act of 2009 regulates fees in the U.S., prohibiting inactivity fees for at least 12 months and requiring clear fee disclosure.
Can I return or exchange a gift card?
Gift card return policies vary significantly:
Most retailers: Do not accept returns or allow exchanges for cash
Some states: Require retailers to provide cash back for small remaining balances (usually under $10)
Original purchaser: May be able to return unused cards with original receipt within a limited timeframe
Gift card exchanges: Third-party platforms allow you to sell unwanted cards, typically at 70-90% of face value
Always check the retailer's specific gift card return policy and keep your purchase receipt.
About SaraGift.org
Does SaraGift.org sell gift cards?
No. SaraGift.org is strictly an educational resource and information platform. We do not sell gift cards, process payments, facilitate transactions, or operate as a marketplace. Our exclusive purpose is to provide accurate, unbiased educational information about gift cards to help consumers make informed decisions and protect themselves from fraud.
How can I contact SaraGift.org with additional questions?
