Do Gift Cards Expire? Here’s What You Need to Know
Gift cards have become one of the most common and convenient ways to give a present, especially when you’re not sure what someone wants. But 1 question many people ask: Do gift cards expire? The answer to this is not as simple as Yes or no so let’s break it down.
How long do gift cards expire
In the U.S. under federal law, almost all of gift cards can not expire for at least 5 years from the day of gift card purchasing or the last time money loaded into that gift card. This rule comes from the CARD Act of year 2009, which was created to protect consumers from unfair fees and sudden expirations.
So, if you received gift cards within the last few years, there’s a good chance it’s still valid — even if it’s been sitting untouched in your drawer.
Can Stores Still Charge Fees?
Yes, but with limits. Some cards may charge inactivity fees, but only if the card hasn’t been used for at least 12 months. Even then, only one fee per month is allowed, and the details about these charges must be clearly shown when you buy the card.
It’s a good idea to check the back of the card or the terms and conditions online to see if there are any potential fees.
State Laws Might Offer Extra Protection
In addition to federal laws, some states have even stricter rules. For example:
- In California, most gift cards can’t expire at all and can even be redeemed for cash if the balance is under $10.
- In New York, expiration dates must be at least nine years from the issue date.
- Other states may limit or ban fees altogether.
Always check your state’s rules to know exactly what rights you have.
Why Do Some Gift Cards Have Expiration Dates?
Even though federal law requires a minimum five-year validity, some cards may still look like they expire sooner. Sometimes, this refers to the plastic card itself, not the balance. If that happens, most card issuers will reissue a new card (usually for free or a small fee), and your money will still be there.
Tips to Avoid Losing Your Gift Card Value
- Use it as soon as possible We get busy, and it’s easy to forget about unused gift card balances.
- Register the card online if possible. This can help you track your balance and replace the card if it’s lost or stolen.
- Hold onto the receipt in case there are any issues with the card or it needs to be replaced.
Trade gift cards online instantly
If you somehow received a card for a store you you don’t shop, you can use following options
- Sell or trade it on trusted sites like Raise or CardCash.
- Regift it to friends — make sure gift card is unused and has the full balance.
- Donate it to a charity or community group that can use it.
Bottom Line
Yes, some gift cards do expire — but at least not for five years in most cases. And depending on where you live, they may never expire at all. To be safe, don’t wait too long to use them, and always read the terms before buying or gifting one.
Whether you’re giving or receiving, understanding how gift cards work helps make sure you get the most value out of them.
Also Read : Where to buy amazon gift cards online and in stores 2025
