Get Gift Card Smart

Previously thought of as an impersonal “cop-out” of a holiday or anytime gift, gift cards are actually one of the most desired gifts on any gift giving occasion

Previously thought of as an impersonal “cop-out” of a holiday or anytime gift, gift cards are actually one of the most desired gifts on any gift giving occasion. If you are planning on giving gift cards this holiday season read on for some updated information and tips on how to shop-smart for the perfect gift card.

In the past, gift cards came with a lot of ‘baggage’; some would gradually loose value over time, others would expire, or have various ‘terms and conditions’ listed in the impossible to read fine print-that nobody takes the time or energy to read in the first place… and then there is always the possibility that the gift card will be lost or never redeemed.

For the most part strict terms and conditions are a thing of the past, and as an incentive for purchasing gift cards, many gift card providers have dropped expiration dates, no longer deduct dollars for inactivity, and even provide replacements for lost cards. Some gift cards allow you to access different information from the internet, such as balance, card activity, and some are refillable!

It is known that the majority of shoppers tend to spend up to 30% more than the value of their gift card- which is good news for retailers, and as the gift card giver, you know that your gift dollars are going to something that special someone truly wants.

SupermarketGuru.com found this 2009 Gift Card Comparison Table to be very useful. Check it out before you gift card shop - the table provides information comparing gift cards from department stores, grocery stores, restaurants and well know credit card providers.

If you have received a gift card this holiday season, get out there and use it - think of it as a little cash infusion! The longer you wait, the more likely you are to forget about it and miss out on the benefits of this generous and flexible gift!