The 2011 Holiday Season is upon us. Thanksgiving is just around the corner and that means Black Friday sales everywhere. And they do mean everywhere! Online, offline, craft fairs, boutique shops, schools, home parties…you name it – everyone is promoting their specials right now. And yes, that includes Gift Cards.
Every store online and offline has some sort of giftcard, gift certificate, or coupon program now. You want specials and discounts and they are providing it. And now you even can get deals on giftcards to save you even more money. Look for free shipping for cards bought online. Look for discount giftcard resellers. Imagine purchasing a giftcard for a discount, then using that giftcard to purchase gifts already on sale. You can multiple your savings! We will point out as many of the giftcard deals we find this season and review them here. We will also bring you tips on how to combine your giftcards with seasonal specials to make your gift giving easier on your wallet this year.
It is now easier than ever to shop for giftcards online. There are giftcards availabel at almost every online retailer and there are many online giftcard shopping portals available as well. And with the new giftcard regulations in effect you can shop with ease knowing your purchase and your reciprients giftcard is more secure than ever.
Giftcards can be purchased online and shipped directly to anyone. Traditional plastic giftcards are available from all your favorite shopping places. Gift cards are also available from restaurants and movie theaters. Along with iTunes giftcards, these make great stocking stuffers. And you can also “be green” with your giving and email a gift card to someone. No plastic cards, no paper packaging, etc. It really is easier than ever.
Consumers can breath a sigh of relief today as the Federal Reserve’s new regulations governing giftcards and other types of prepaid debit cards go into effect.. Three main areas covered under the new regulations are:
*Products – what is covered and what is not
*Restrictions on dormancy, inactivity, or service fees – which fees have been eliminated and which are applicable
*Restrictions on expiration dates – what new limitations apply
All-in-all, the provisions, which are part of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Credit CARD Act), look like they have addressed some of the major concerns most consumers have had about giftcard purchases and usage. Some sources are already predicting an increase in the number of giftcard purchases for the upcoming holiday season solely because of the new rules going into effect. You can read the actual press release from the Federal Reserve (dated March 23, 2010) from their website here.
Here is the 104 page notice from the Federal reserve
or just click here for Highlights of the Final Gift Card Rule
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With all the scare about purchasing giftcards this year, its good to know there is someone you can trust when buying your shopping cards. Amazon.com has been a trusted online merchant for over a decade now and provides a great selection of their own giftcards and gift certificates as well as from a number of other sources. In fact you can order an Amazon.com giftcard, gift certificate, or email an e-certificate to anyone on your list. In, addition you can find trusted retailers like Target, Old Navy, and Bath and Body Works along with American Express and iTunes. Amazon.com makes buying giftcards safe and reliable.
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Through our many affiliations we get daily notifications of merchants that have giftcards available still. Its funny how you might not even think of an idea for someone until you realize you can give them a giftcard that gives them so many options. Here are a few more from today:
Here are some additional savings from American Express®
Free Standard Shipping – $5.95 savings – Promo code AFL420 Valid through : 12.31.09
$5 off purchase of any 2 Gift Cards ż Promo code AFL5 Valid through : 12.31.09
Hope these help!
