I have never been a big fan of giving gift cards to loved ones. I always have felt them to be a bit impersonal. I understand that it gives the receiver freedom to get what they want. That being said, I like going to find that perfect gift for someone, even if it is something they have already asked for.
Some gift cards have to be used within a certain amount of time. THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE! You spend the money for the gift card, why would anyone say it is invalid after a certain amount of time? My $100 bill does not lose its value after a year. Maybe I should give out cash if I am giving out gift cards. Then there really is no limitation other than the amount. They can shop wherever they want.
Then there are the gift cards that charge a percentage or an "upkeep fee." Ridiculous.
Here is the other big problem. If a company goes bankrupt, your gift card is WORTHLESS! Take a look at this article and how you can no longer use your sharper image gift cards. Sharper Image Gift Cards Useless
