One in Four Gift Cards Never Used, Survey Shows

Dec. 3, 2012 - PRLog -- According to a survey conducted by Consumer Reports, one in every four gift cards purchased is never used.

A recent National Public Radio (NPR) segment also focused on other issues associated with gift cards, such as hidden fees.

“Many consumers are not aware of the pitfalls when they buy someone a gift card,” said Ron Zayas, founder of Gift Checks Online. “They may be convenient, but they don’t always maintain their full value.”

Gift Checks Online (GCO) is a company that provides a more convenient and better option to gift cards in the form of a personalized Gift Check. A Gift Check is a personalized greeting card and a real check in one package for $4.99, which includes shipping. Several event and holiday designs are available. Gift Checks purchased by 3pm are processed and mailed the same day.

According to Bankrate.com’s Janna Herron, who was interviewed by NPR on November 28, some gift cards charge “inactivity fees” if they are not used in 12 months. These fees can be as high as $2 a month. To restore the card to full value, the recipient must then “reload” the card out of his or her own money.

“Unlike gift cards, Gift Checks never lose their full value,” Zayas explained. “Each purchase comes with a money-back guarantee. Plus, since you can choose a design and write a message to the recipient, they feel much more like a personal gift, and not something just pulled off a rack at a retailer.”

The Gift Checks Online website is located at www.giftchecksonline.com.

About Gift Checks Online

Gift Checks Online (www.giftchecksonline.com) is the originator of the Gift Check, which combines the convenience of a check with the personal sentiment of a greeting card. Gift checks are a unique new way to remember special occasions for family and friends, such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and holidays, or just to remind someone you love that they are special. For more information, call us at 855-MY1-GIFT.