Gift Cards Don’t Expire

In this season of Father’s Day, and graduations, the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) is reminding consumers that pre-paid gift cards and gift certificates sold in Connecticut do not expire.

State law prohibits anyone from selling a gift card or certificate with an expiration date. These include gift cards, gift certificates, electronic gift cards, and store cards, but not prepaid phone calling cards. However, DCP cautions consumers that even though the cards and certificates do not expire, they should be used promptly, because stores that issue them may close down without warning.

Anyone who has had a problem redeeming a gift card issued in Connecticut should contact the store or business that issued it. If that proves unsuccessful, the consumer should contact the Federal Trade Commission (1-877-FTC-HELP). They may also contact DCP for cards issued by Connecticut stores, restaurants, or businesses.