GIFT CARD SMARTS

Tis the season…for gift cards.

Some may scoff at them as “not very creative”
 (that’s one of the nicer descriptions)  but they
are quick and easy and always the perfect size.

Unfortunately, a high percentage go unused
every year.  Most probably because they are
forgotten or misplaced.  In some cases it’s
because the recipient can’t use it.

Make sure grandma has an iPod before getting
her an itunes gift card, please.

Here are some tips to make sure you get the
most out of your gift cards:

1) Just use it fast.  This is particularly important
if they came from a smaller local merchant.  They
could be out-of-business fast and you’ll be stuck
with a bookmark.  Don’t use them frivolously but
if you have a need and the card can meet that need
now, use it.

2)Post reminders where you’ll see them.  Set
up reminders using your technology.  Set your phone
to jingle on February 1st to ask you if you’ve used 
your gift cards yet.

3) Read their fine print.  Some lose value each month.

4) Swap!  If you can’t use one, get the word out that
you want to swap.  Post on Twitter or Facebook… “I’ve
got a $25 gift card to Bob’s Big and Tall and I am
neither…will trade for gift card of equal (or greater)
value…what ya got?”

5) If you don’t use it all at once, write the available
balance on the card.

6) Look ahead. If you don’t need them for your
own purchases, perhaps you can use them to buy
gifts in the coming year.  Maybe your whole
gift-giving budget could be taken care of by the
gift cards you received?

If you have your own suggestions, please feel
free to leave a comment!

Best wishes for a happy and prosperous new year.

Leo