How to avoid the trap of buying a gift card

For the holiday season, did you receive a card, check, or certificate that allows you to purchase something, an activity, or an experience in exchange for a payment that has already been made? How do you know it’s not a poisoned gift?

A “prepaid card” is, for example, a cell phone card, a prepaid credit card, or a gift card that is valid at a specific location, such as a bookstore. There are several rules governing this type of gift.

Refundable cash balance

The balance on this card is redeemable for cash under certain conditions. You must order it in trade, and the balance must be $5 or less.

This rule is valid for all prepaid cards, unless it is a prepaid mobile phone or credit card.

No more expiration date!

There’s also no need to rush to the store to use your prepaid card, unless it’s a cell phone card or a card that gives unlimited access to a service, like a bus ticket.

The reason is simple: all other prepaid cards no longer have an expiration date. You have been warned!

Feel free to talk about it

Are you having trouble using your gift card?

Discuss this with the people responsible for where it can be used. If you cannot solve the problem in this way, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Office.