How to make use of gift cards – so you don’t lose their value

Unused gift cards are a common yet overlooked asset in many households, representing a significant sum of money that often goes untapped.

Many of us are busy juggling family responsibilities while balancing career demands, and it’s essential to optimize every resource at our disposal. In light of this, let’s look into some ways to reclaim the value of unused gift cards. 

Turn unused gift cards into cash

Figuring out what to do with your unused gift card can be daunting. Your mind often looks to the possibility of returning unwanted gift cards – an option typically limited by stringent refund policies. However, alternative avenues exist for maximizing the value of gift cards that cater to busy lives of everyone.

In instances where cash back isn’t feasible, there are innovative solutions that can offer a convenient way to convert gift cards into cash, empowering you to manage your finances efficiently amid demanding schedules. 

For instance, with the Prepaid2Cash app, you can seamlessly convert unused gift cards from major providers like Amex, Visa, and Mastercard into cash. By streamlining the redemption process and providing instant access to funds, these platforms prioritize convenience and accessibility.

This newfound liquidity can be directed towards essential expenses such as groceries, insurance premiums, or everyday bills, providing much-needed financial flexibility and peace of mind.

Re-gift your unwanted gift cards

Rather than letting gift cards gather dust, consider re-gifting them to someone who would genuinely appreciate the gesture. Whether it’s a friend celebrating a milestone or a colleague deserving of recognition, re-gifting serves as a meaningful way to spread joy and express care.

Furthermore, it provides a sense of community. Gift card swaps with friends and colleagues can foster connections and mutual support. By exchanging unwanted gift cards and sharing resources, people can empower each other to maximize the use of their assets.

Donate gift cards to charity

Put unused gift cards to good use by donating them to charitable organizations. By supporting causes close to your heart, such as local charities or community initiatives, you can make a tangible impact on those in need, fostering a sense of fulfillment and social responsibility.

Make sure you use your gift cards before they expire

As special occasions arise, leverage gift cards to treat yourself and your loved ones to meaningful experiences. Whether it’s pampering yourself with a spa day or surprising your family with a heartfelt gift, don’t let unused gift cards go to waste – embrace the opportunity to create cherished memories.

To avoid running into an issue of an unused gift card in the future and to ensure that gift cards are used effectively, it’s crucial to integrate them seamlessly into daily routines. Whether it’s storing them prominently in wallets or exploring partner stores that accept a wide range of gift cards, proactive measures can enhance redemption opportunities and optimize the value of unused assets.

In conclusion, the value of unused gift cards extends far beyond their monetary worth – it’s about spreading joy and making a positive impact. By embracing these innovative gift card solutions, you can unlock the full potential of your gift cards while enriching their lives and those around you.

Author: Christie Vella, Chief Operating Officer of PrePaid2Cash. Christie Vella is responsible for driving all operations of Prepaid2Cash, a gift card redemption platform providing consumers with a secure solution to redeem prepaid cards and gift cards into cash in their bank. 

She has over 20 years of executive experience in building and leading product teams in the FinTech space as well as the key Human Resource and Compliance and Risk functions. Christie Vella has spent the majority of her career in prepaid services, developing, program managing and processing key Visa and Mastercard prepaid products.