They’re an extremely popular choice during the holiday season, but the province is reminding you to be careful when purchasing gift cards.
The province has specific rules around the sale and use of gift cards. That includes dictating that most gift cards cannot have an expiry date, unless it was used for a charitable purpose or it was given for free.
The price of a gift card also shouldn’t have any additional fees attached. The only allowable fee is to replace a lost or stolen card, or to customize a card. Sales tax also shouldn’t be charged when buying a card, as the sales tax will be added when the card is used to make a purchase.
The province also warns that cards shouldn’t be damaged or have torn packaging. Shoppers are encouraged to report it to the store if you see it.
In a media release issued Monday, the province also encourages you to use cards sooner than later — if a businesses closes, it notes, you may be out of luck.
The province has more information about gift card use and rules on its web site.