I absolutely love gift cards! They’re such a smart choice, loaded with virtual cash that lets the recipient treat themselves to whatever they want. You can find them just about anywhere. Both in physical stores and online. They’re also my go-to when I’m in one of those last-minute gift situations!
And get this: I recently read that a 2023 Bank of America survey found 76% of people prefer receiving gift cards during the holiday season over presents they might never use. Count me in for that percentage! So, in this video, let’s dive into everything you need to know about gift cards.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Gift Card Do’s:
- Choose a Beloved Brand: Pick a gift card from a brand the recipient loves to ensure it’s appreciated.
- Introduce Something New: Consider gifting a card for a place or experience they haven’t tried but might enjoy—it could lead to a pleasant surprise!
- Make the Amount Meaningful: Ensure the gift card amount covers something worthwhile, so the recipient doesn’t have to spend extra.
- Redeem Credit Card Rewards: Use cash back or points from your credit card to get gift cards, making for valuable, cost-free gifts.
Gift Card Don’ts:
- Avoid Compromised Cards: Check for signs of tampering before buying gift cards. If in doubt, ask for a card not on display.
- Don’t Send US Cards Internationally: Be aware that some US gift cards can only be used within the US. Always read the fine print.
- Avoid Buying Too Far in Advance: Purchase gift cards closer to the gifting date to ensure they’re still valid and to avoid expiration issues.
- Keep the Receipt: Always ask for and keep the receipt; it’s essential for refunds in case of tampered cards.
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