FAQs: Gift Card Expiration Dates, Fees And More

Gift cards do not and cannot expire in less than five years of the purchase date. However, it’s important to remember that there may be fees associated with an expired card, causing funds to be drained from the balance. Learn more about rules, regulations and suggestions on what to do with an expired gift card.

Gift Card Expiration

In the past, gift cards were known for having expiration dates. But the CARD Act of 2009 helped to regulate the rules. The law prohibits gift card expiration for no less than five years after the gift card was purchased.

Gift Card Fees

You could incur a fee for not using your gift card. Yes; you read the right. A monthly fee will be deducted from the balance of your gift card if it hasn’t been used for a year. The issuer is required to disclose this information; check on the back of the card for details.

It’s important to remember that not all gift cards are created equal. If fee details are not provided on your card, do your due diligence and call the company. Knowing this information could save you unwanted fees in the future.