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    Guidelines for Thoughtful Gift Card Giving

    Gift cards can be a fantastic solution when you’re unsure of what to buy. They grant your loved ones the liberty to choose exactly what they want, making them an thoughtful and functional gift option. It’s no wonder they have become increasingly popular! A recent poll found that 53% of people favor gift cards during the holiday season.

    Nonetheless, even though gift cards are straightforward, there are important aspects to consider to make sure your gift is well-received. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide on the best practices for giving gift cards.

    What Are Gift Cards?

    Gift cards generally fall into two categories:

    1. Store-Specific Gift Cards: These can be redeemed at a particular retailer, such as a $50 Starbucks card or a $100 Sephora card. They’re perfect if you are familiar with the recipient’s tastes!
    2. General Gift Cards: Cards like Visa or Mastercard are accepted almost universally. However, they typically come with a small activation fee.

    Do’s: Tips for Successful Gift Card Giving

    Choose a Gift Card They’ll Value
    Consider what the individual enjoys. Are they passionate about technology? An Apple or Best Buy card may be a hit. Do they love dining out? A restaurant gift card could be just right. Personalizing the card to cater to their interests demonstrates extra care.

    Encourage New Experiences
    Gift cards can open the door to exciting new experiences! A dining gift card might inspire them to try a new restaurant, or a movie theater card could lead to a fun evening out.

    Select the Appropriate Format
    Some people prefer physical cards while others enjoy the convenience of digital options. Think about your recipient—your tech-savvy nephew might appreciate a digital card, whereas your grandmother might favor a physical one.

    Ensure the Value is Meaningful
    Make sure the gift card’s value allows for a fulfilling purchase. For example, a $10 card at an upscale restaurant could feel inadequate, while a $50 card would seem much more generous.

    Look for Promotions to Save Money
    Explore stores like Costco for gift card deals that can help you save. For instance, you might discover $100 worth of restaurant gift cards priced at just $80.

    Utilize Credit Card Rewards
    If you’ve earned points on your credit card, think about redeeming them for gift cards. This is an excellent way to enhance your budget while giving a great gift.

    Don’ts: Pitfalls to Avoid When Gifting Gift Cards

    Avoid Buying Damaged Cards
    When selecting a card, inspect it closely for any damage or signs of tampering. Scammers sometimes duplicate barcodes to access funds. To ensure safety, ask for a new card from behind the counter.

    Don’t Go Over Your Budget
    Stick to your financial limits. A small, heartfelt gift card can be better than overspending on a flashy option.

    Be Aware of International Limitations
    Many U.S. gift cards are unusable outside the country. Always verify the terms if you’re giving a gift to someone abroad.

    Keep Your Receipt
    Make sure to save the receipt. If the card malfunctions, it can act as proof of purchase to address any problems.

    Don’t Buy Too Early
    Gift cards officially remain valid for at least five years; however, buying them too soon may limit their effectiveness. It’s wise to purchase closer to the event for your own assurance.

    Steer Clear of Unusually High Discounts
    Be cautious of discounts that appear too good to be true; they could be scams. Stick to reliable retailers or platforms like Raise for safer, smaller discounts.

    Why Gift Cards Are Always a Fantastic Choice

    When unsure of what to give, gift cards are often a better option than arbitrary presents (like that infamous ugly sweater). Gift expert Martha Weaver states, “A well-chosen gift card is better than a poorly chosen gift—and much better than a squirrel sweater!”

    So, next time you’re uncertain about what to buy, refer to this guide. With a bit of thought, your gift card can turn into the perfect present—making it easy and stress-free for you!

    Image Source: S Becker / Shutterstock

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