Giving Gift Cards This Holiday Season

 
 

December 19, 2008 11:21 AM

Mcguinty Government Reminds Consumers To Shop Smarter

Gift cards are a convenient and popular gift this holiday season and Ontario has taken important steps to protect consumers by banning expiry dates.

Here's what you should know before you buy:

  • Expiry dates on gift cards issued on or after October 1, 2007 are banned.
  • Fees or deductions from a gift card's value are banned.  
  • Expiry dates on mall gift cards issued as of September 1, 2008 are banned and there are limits on administrative fees.

There are some exceptions - expiry dates and/or administrative fees may still apply to:

  • Loyalty cards used to collect rewards or points or cards subject to federal jurisdiction, such as prepaid phone cards and credit card branded gift cards.  
  • Cards and certificates redeemable for specific services, such as massages, manicures or dinner for two, even if a dollar amount is specified on the card.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Eighty-two per cent of Canada's largest retailers offer gift cards.
  • Canadians spend about $1.26 billion on gift cards during the holiday season.
  • Effective October 1, 2007, Ontario no longer allows expiry dates on gift cards.



Ministry of Consumer Services
ontario.ca/consumerservices


 

"Consumers in Ontario enjoy stronger protections when it comes to gift cards. Smart consumers are good for business and I encourage holiday shoppers to learn more about gift cards - and to remember to use them."

 – Harinder Takhar
Minister of Small Business and Consumer Services

 
 
 
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