Do Gift Cards Expire? Understanding the Facts in 2025

Gift cards are one of the most popular presents worldwide—easy to buy, easy to send, and loved by recipients. But one question continues to confuse consumers: do gift cards expire?

In 2025, the rules and regulations governing gift cards have undergone significant evolution. Depending on where you live and the type of gift card you have, expiration and fees can vary. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make sure your money—and your gift—doesn’t go to waste.

What Are Gift Cards and How Do They Work?

A gift card is a prepaid payment instrument that holds a certain balance, allowing the user to purchase goods or services. It works like cash but in a digital or card format. Do gift cards expire

There are two main types of gift cards:

1. Store-issued gift cards: Offered by specific retailers (like Amazon, Starbucks, or Target) and can only be used at that retailer’s locations or online stores.
   
2. Bank-issued gift cards: Branded with major networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, and can be used almost anywhere those cards are accepted.
   

Types of Gift Cards You Can Buy

Gift cards come in various forms to suit different needs:

• Physical cards: Traditional plastic cards purchased in stores.
  
• E-gift cards: Digital versions sent via email or mobile apps.
  
• Promotional gift cards: Offered as part of marketing deals—these may come with shorter expiration dates.
  
• Prepaid debit cards: Loaded with cash value, usable like a regular debit card but not tied to a bank account.
  

The Truth About Gift Card Expiration Dates

Expiration rules are designed to protect consumers, but not all cards follow the same standards. Some gift cards never expire, while others might lose value over time through inactivity fees.

Retailers often set expiration dates to manage accounting and liabilities. However, U.S. law limits how short these periods can be.

Federal Laws on Gift Card Expiration (U.S. Focus)

The Credit CARD Act of 2009 was a turning point in protecting consumers from unfair gift card practices. It states that most gift cards cannot expire for at least five years from the date of purchase or the last time funds were loaded onto the card.

Additionally, inactivity fees can only be charged if:

• The card has been inactive for at least 12 months, and
  
• The issuer clearly discloses these fees beforehand.
  

This law applies to both store-issued and bank-issued cards across the United States.

The 5-Year Rule for Gift Card Expiry

Under federal law, gift cards must remain valid for a minimum of five years. Some states even go beyond this requirement, banning expiration altogether.

For instance:

• California prohibits expiration dates for most gift cards.
  
• New York and Florida follow the five-year rule but require clear disclosure of terms.
  

If you lose track of your card, the five-year period ensures you still have time to redeem its value.

Do Gift Cards Lose Value Over Time?

Even when a gift card doesn’t technically expire, it can lose value through inactivity fees. If you don’t use it for a long time, small deductions may start to apply.

Typical fees include:

• Monthly maintenance fees (after 12 months of inactivity).
  
• Replacement or reissue fees for lost cards.
  
• Dormancy fees on certain prepaid cards.
  

Always check the fine print or the back of the card for details.

How to Check Gift Card Expiration Dates and Balances

To avoid unpleasant surprises, regularly check your card’s balance and expiration date.

Here’s how:

1. Visit the issuer’s official website.
   
2. Enter your card number and PIN (if applicable).
   
3. Call the toll-free number printed on the back.
   
4. Use mobile apps designed for gift card management.
   

Some retailers even allow you to check your balance and expiry in-store at the register.

What Happens When a Gift Card Expires?

If your card has expired but still holds a balance, you might not be out of luck. In many cases, you can request a replacement card or reclaim the remaining funds.

Contact the retailer’s customer service or the card issuer. If you face difficulty, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

Tips to Prevent Losing Gift Card Value

Here are some smart habits to ensure your cards stay valuable:

• Use them soon after receiving them.
  
• Register your gift cards online when possible.
  
• Keep physical cards in a safe place.
  
• Track expiration dates using digital tools or phone reminders.
  

Apps like Gyft or Raise can help you organize all your cards in one place.

International Perspective on Gift Card Expiration

Outside the U.S., rules vary widely:

• Canada: Most provinces ban expiration dates entirely.
  
• UK: Typically, cards last 12–24 months but may vary by retailer.
  
• Australia: As of 2019, gift cards must be valid for at least three years.
  

These global standards reflect a growing trend toward protecting consumer rights.

Conclusion: Protecting the Value of Your Gift Cards

So, do gift cards expire? The short answer is: rarely—but always check. Thanks to strong consumer protection laws, most gift cards remain valid for years. Still, it’s smart to read the fine print, track your balances, and use your cards promptly.

By staying informed, you’ll ensure every cent of your gift card’s value benefits you—or the person you gifted it to.

FAQs About Gift Card Expiration

Q1. Do gift cards expire?
No, not all gift cards expire. Many store-issued cards remain valid indefinitely, while prepaid debit cards may expire after five years.

Q2. Can I get a refund for an expired gift card?
Sometimes. Contact the retailer or card issuer—some may issue a replacement card if the balance is still available.

Q3. Why do some gift cards charge inactivity fees?
To cover administrative costs when a card remains unused for long periods.

Q4. Do gift cards expire faster than each one?
Not usually. E-gift cards follow the same expiration rules as physical cards.

Q5. How can I avoid losing my gift card balance?
Redeem it early, track balances regularly, and store your cards securely.

Q6. Are there apps to help manage multiple gift cards?
Yes! Apps like Cardpool, Raise, and Gyft help manage and track gift card balances easily.