Understanding Gift Card Expiration: What You Need to Know
Discover how long gift cards last and the rules surrounding expiration and fees in this informative Q&A.
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Gift card expiration depends on the issuer and the country. In the U.S., federal law mandates that gift cards cannot expire for at least 5 years from the date of purchase. However, after 1 year, an inactivity fee may apply. Always check the terms on the specific gift card for exact details.
FAQs & Answers
- Do all gift cards expire? Not all gift cards expire. Federal law states they cannot expire for at least 5 years from the purchase date but check the specific card terms.
- What happens if a gift card expires? If a gift card expires, you may lose the balance, but some states have consumer protections that may allow you to redeem it or receive a replacement.
- Are there fees associated with gift cards? Yes, after one year of inactivity, many gift cards may incur fees, often reducing the balance over time.