Find answers to the most common questions about gift cards, safety practices, and using GiftMehr.org.
General Gift Card Questions
What is a gift card?
A gift card is a prepaid stored-value card issued by a retailer, bank, or payment processor that can be used to make purchases. Gift cards typically have a specific monetary value loaded onto them and can be used until the balance is depleted. They come in two main forms: closed-loop (usable only at specific retailers) and open-loop (usable anywhere that accepts major payment networks like Visa or Mastercard).
What types of gift cards exist?
There are several types of gift cards:
Retail Gift Cards: Specific to individual stores (Amazon, Target, Walmart, etc.)
Restaurant Gift Cards: For dining establishments (Starbucks, Chipotle, etc.)
Entertainment Cards: For games, movies, music (iTunes, Google Play, Xbox, etc.)
Open-Loop Gift Cards: Bank-issued prepaid cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
Digital/E-Gift Cards: Electronic versions delivered via email or app
Physical Gift Cards: Traditional plastic cards
Do gift cards expire?
In the United States, the Credit Card Act of 2009 (Credit CARD Act) protects consumers by requiring that gift cards cannot expire for at least five years from the date of purchase or from the last time money was loaded onto the card. However, there are some exceptions:
Promotional gift cards may have shorter expiration periods
Some states have additional consumer protection laws
Dormancy or inactivity fees may apply after 12 months
Open-loop prepaid cards may have different rules
Always check the terms and conditions of your specific gift card.
Safety and Security
How can I tell if a gift card is legitimate?
Look for these signs of a legitimate gift card:
Purchase from authorized retailers or official websites
Intact packaging with no signs of tampering
Scratch-off PIN area should be undamaged
Security features like holograms or special printing
Clear terms and conditions printed on the card
Valid activation receipt from authorized seller
What are common gift card scams?
Be aware of these common scams:
Imposter Scams: Criminals posing as government, companies, or family members demanding gift card payments
Payment Scams: Sellers demanding payment via gift cards (legitimate businesses never do this)
Tampered Cards: Cards with exposed PINs or resealed packaging
Fake Websites: Counterfeit sites selling discounted gift cards
Phishing: Emails or texts requesting gift card information
Employment Scams: Fake jobs requiring gift card purchases
Remember: Legitimate government agencies, businesses, and family members will never demand payment via gift cards.
Where is the safest place to buy gift cards?
The safest places to purchase gift cards are:
Directly from the retailer's official website or app
Official brand stores or locations
Major authorized retailers (supermarkets, pharmacies, department stores)
Banks and credit unions (for prepaid cards)
Established e-commerce platforms (with buyer protection)
Avoid buying from online marketplaces, auctions, or sellers offering steep discounts, as these may be scams.
Using Gift Cards
How do I check my gift card balance?
You can typically check your balance through:
The retailer's website (look for "Check Balance" link)
The retailer's mobile app
Customer service phone number (on the back of the card)
In-store at the customer service desk
Some third-party balance checking websites (use with caution)
You'll usually need the card number and PIN/security code.
Can I use multiple gift cards for one purchase?
This depends on the retailer's policy:
Many retailers allow using multiple gift cards online
Some stores have limits on the number of cards per transaction
Physical stores may have different policies than online
You can often combine gift cards with other payment methods
Check with the specific retailer for their policy.
What if my gift card doesn't work?
If your gift card doesn't work:
Verify the card has been activated (check your receipt)
Make sure you're entering the correct card number and PIN
Check the expiration date
Verify the card hasn't been used already
Contact the retailer's customer service with your receipt
Report suspected fraud to the retailer and authorities
About GiftMehr.org
Does GiftMehr.org sell gift cards?
No. GiftMehr.org is strictly an educational resource. We provide information about gift cards but do not sell them, process transactions, facilitate purchases, or have business relationships with gift card companies. Our sole purpose is to educate consumers about gift cards.
Is GiftMehr.org free to use?
Yes! All content, guides, and resources on GiftMehr.org are completely free and accessible to everyone. We do not charge any fees or require memberships.
How often is your information updated?
We regularly update our content to ensure accuracy:
Breaking news and scams are added promptly
Major policy changes are updated within 48 hours
General content is reviewed quarterly
User feedback prompts immediate review of specific topics
