(BPT) - Every year, millions of Americans find themselves in a holiday bind: staring at empty store shelves, scrolling online or stressing out over finding the right gifts for everyone on their lists. But the cure for this anxiety is always in plain sight. The National Retail Federation reports gift cards have been the most requested holiday present for nearly two decades. They're perfect for everyone on your list, available everywhere and let recipients get exactly what they want.
While gift cards are a surefire hit and take the stress out of gift-giving, buying them still requires a little awareness to make sure the experience is as festive as it's intended to be — and that criminals don't dampen holiday spirits. The key is choosing gift cards that delight your recipients while protecting everyone involved.
Here are six ways to put that advice into action this holiday season.
Choose gift cards with the recipient in mind
The best gifts feel thoughtful and personal. Gift cards check those boxes by offering endless opportunities to connect people with the brands, retailers and experiences they love most. There are even themed gift cards from more than one brand based on the occasion or recipient. For a teenager, the perfect gift card might be for a clothing retailer or gaming platform. For young adults, a favorite coffee shop or bookstore. Spas for a tired mom. A home improvement store for a DIY dad. Or travel for a retiree.
Gift cards are easy to buy and give in a variety of different formats. Digital gift cards are perfect for last-minute giving or faraway friends, while physical cards can create a celebratory moment in-person together. No matter how you give them, gift cards show you've considered what will make others' holiday season brighter.
Shop from sources you trust
Where you buy matters. Established and well-known retailers, grocery chains and official brand websites are the safest places to purchase gift cards. Authorized online marketplaces that provide buyer protections are another solid option.
Avoid buying gift cards from unfamiliar sellers. Criminals often use platforms like online marketplaces and social media to disguise scams. A good rule of thumb: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Take 30 seconds to check for tampering
It can be tempting to grab a gift card and rush to continue your shopping or check out. Instead, take a few moments to make sure the card hasn't been tampered with. A 30-second inspection is one of the easiest ways to make sure your purchase is safe.
- Look closely at the packaging. Compare it to other gift cards on the rack. Colors, logos and text should match exactly.
- Feel the back of the card. Run your fingers over the back of the card and packaging to check for bumps or layers that feel unusual. This could be something as small as a sticker that feels slightly elevated or an extra layer of packaging that feels thicker than the rest.
- Inspect the PIN covering. The stickers and scratch-off material covering the gift card PIN number should be smooth, flat and fully intact. Missing or wrinkled coverings are red flags.
- Examine gift card packaging for signs of cuts or tears. Look for small marks on packaging edges or paper fibers around perforated areas where a criminal may have opened the gift card already.
If anything feels off, pick another card and hand the suspicious card to a customer service or checkout clerk. In less than a minute you can create peace of mind for yourself and the recipient.
Gift cards should come with receipts — and that small piece of paper is a valuable safety net. Always save your receipt and ask for a gift receipt for the recipient as well. Gift card receipts make it easier to confirm when a gift card is activated, track balances or resolve issues in the off chance something goes wrong.
Protect your cards and your wallet
Once the gift card is in the hands of the recipient, your job isn't quite done. You may need to remind the people you give the cards to that they should check balances right away to make sure the card has the right amount of funds and is ready for them to use.
When checking a gift card balance, type in the URL printed on the back of the card so you visit an official website (as opposed to one that may come up from a generic search). Gift cards should be treated like cash and stored securely. You should never share card numbers or PINs with strangers.
Know where to go for help
In the off chance something is wrong with the gift card you bought, you can find help solving your problem.
Smarter gifting makes for a better holiday season
Gift cards are meant to treat others and give people the power to buy exactly what they want. No returns. No exchanges for a different size or color. No stress. Just joy. With a little awareness, you can have peace of mind and make sure the thrill of your gift isn't overshadowed by criminals.
