6 Things You Need to Know About Buying Gift Cards This Holiday Season

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Gift Card Options Can Be Confusing

Only 50% of Gift Card buyers realize that the gift card may lose value from fees after it is purchased.

Darien, CT (PRWEB) November 27, 2009

The 2009 holiday gift-giving season has arrived, with the annual dilemma: “What is the perfect gift?”

In this difficult economy, many people believe the perfect gift is a prepaid gift card. Gift cards allow the recipient the ability to choose how they spend their gift dollars, a welcome option in a tough economic environment.

According to research by the Nielson Company, overall holiday spending will rise slightly this season, with gift cards once again the number one purchase. Gift cards were the number one gift last year as well. In 2008, almost $200 billion was loaded on prepaid gift cards.

But not all gift cards are created equal. How do you choose the right gift card?

GetDebit.com has prepared a list of 6 gift card buying tips that every gift card buyer should know about.

The tips are simple. Following them can end up saving lots of money and time. GetDebit.com recommends that every gift card buyer consider the following:
    1. Consider buying a prepaid gift card from a solo retailer to avoid potential fees.
    2. Do not purchase cards from banks or credit card companies unless you are aware of the fees that may be charged for purchase and for use.
    3. Be careful if you decide to purchase a card online.
    4. Inspect the card after purchase to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with, scratched to reveal pin numbers, and that it contains all the stickers that hide sensitive information.
    5. Ask for a copy of the terms of use, or have the clerk direct you to where this information is located.
    6. Explain the terms of use to the gift recipient—instruct them to treat the card like cash, and to be aware of their balance and expiration dates.

Read more tips and information about prepaid cards at GetDebit.com.

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