Bargain Quest

As a follow-up to “Check Out My Gift Collection,” here are some ideas on how to maximize the benefit of gift cards:

*To use the card, you need to not lose the card! I know, it’s not rocket science.

*Likewise, it should be kept somewhere easily accessible and frequently seen. As I mentioned, I keep mine rubber-banded together in my purse. I’m reminded of them, and if I make an unplanned stop at one of the gift card stores, I have them handy.

*It’s important to keep track of how much value is left on the card. You can make better purchasing decisions when you know exactly how much you have available. As much as I think I’ll remember, I tend to lose track of my running totals. So I affix a little piece of Scotch tape to each card, somewhere non-interfering and hopefully white. Then each time the value changes, I record the new total on the tape. (Have you ever tried to make a pen write on plastic?) Of course, you can always call the “Check Balance” phone number listed on the card instead.

*While you’re recording values, list the date (approx) that the card was purchased. To avoid expirations and service fees, my rule of thumb is to use the card within a year. A few stores might inflict penalties in under a year, but it’s rare. (Make certain to note if the redemption deadline is shortened.)

*Sign up for the company’s email list. It keeps me informed about sales and promotions, which are when I ideally want shop with the card. If I can apply a few coupons at the same time, even better!

This list assumes that the business issuing your gift card actually has products you want to buy. If you feel like you’re wasting the value because there’s nothing at that store you want, auction it off at eBay or cardavenue.com.

You certainly don’t want to take so long to spend that cards lose their value or you lose them, but there’s also no need to rush out to buy the first halfway-decent thing at full price. Take your time shopping and find that bargain you love!