Find answers to common questions about gift cards and our educational platform. Browse our comprehensive FAQ database covering essential topics from basic concepts to advanced fraud prevention strategies.
General Gift Card Information
What exactly is a gift card?
A gift card is a prepaid stored-value card, typically issued by a retailer or bank, used as an alternative to cash for purchases. Gift cards usually resemble credit cards and contain a specific monetary value that can be spent at designated locations or online platforms.
What are the main types of gift cards available?
There are several types of gift cards:
Retail Gift Cards: Usable only at specific retailers (e.g., Amazon, Target, Walmart)
Open-Loop Gift Cards: Feature card network logos (Visa, Mastercard) and work wherever those cards are accepted
Digital Gift Cards: Electronic codes delivered via email or mobile applications
Multi-Store Gift Cards: Accepted at multiple retailers within specific shopping groups
Restaurant Gift Cards: Specific to restaurants or food service chains
Do gift cards have expiration dates?
In the United States, federal law (Credit CARD Act of 2009) prohibits gift cards from expiring within five years from purchase. However, specific policies vary:
Retail gift cards typically don't expire in the US
Bank-issued gift cards may have expiration dates (minimum 5 years)
International gift cards may have different expiration rules
Always check the terms and conditions on your specific gift card.
Gift Card Purchase & Safety
Where is the safest place to purchase gift cards?
The safest sources for gift cards are:
Directly from the retailer (in-store or official website)
From the official website of the gift card issuer
From reputable major retailers (grocery stores, drugstores, big-box stores)
From official bank websites (for bank-issued gift cards)
Be cautious of deals from unofficial sources, online marketplaces, or classified ads.
How can I detect if a gift card has been tampered with?
Look for these warning signs:
Scratched or exposed PIN areas
Damaged or manipulated packaging
Missing security seals
Signs of card replacement or package resealing
Unusual or damaged barcodes
Cards displayed in easily accessible, unsecured areas
When purchasing physical gift cards, examine them carefully and consider selecting cards from behind the counter or in tamper-evident packaging.
What should I do if I suspect a gift card scam?
If you suspect a gift card scam:
Contact the gift card issuer/retailer immediately
Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov
File a report with your local police department
If purchased with a credit card, contact your credit card company to dispute the charge
Document all purchase information (receipts, communications, etc.)
The sooner you report suspicious activity, the better your chances of recovery.
Using Gift Cards
How do I check my gift card balance?
There are several methods to check your balance:
Online: Visit the retailer's official website and look for "Check Balance" section
Phone: Call the customer service number on the back of the card
In-Store: Ask a cashier or customer service representative
Mobile App: Some retailers offer apps for balance checking
You'll typically need the card number and PIN to check the balance.
Can I use multiple gift cards for one purchase?
Most retailers allow multiple gift cards for a single purchase, though policies vary:
In-store purchases usually allow multiple gift cards
Online purchases may limit the number of gift cards (often 3-5 cards)
Some retailers may not allow splitting transactions between gift cards and other payment methods online
Check with the specific retailer's policy before making large purchases with multiple gift cards.
Can I get cash back from a gift card?
Cash-back options for gift cards vary by state law and retailer policy:
California: Retailers must provide cash for balances under $10
Other states: May have similar laws for small balances (typically $5 or less)
Voluntarily by retailers: Some retailers offer cash back for low balances
Gift card exchange services: Third-party platforms allow selling unwanted cards (at a discount)
Cash-back policies are designed to prevent small, unusable balances from accumulating. Check your state's specific laws and the retailer's policy.
About GiftRaha.org
Does GiftRaha.org sell gift cards?
No. GiftRaha.org is strictly an educational resource. We do not sell gift cards, process payments, or facilitate any transactions. Our sole purpose is to provide accurate, unbiased information about gift cards to help consumers make informed decisions.
How can I contact GiftRaha.org with additional questions?
