For the holidays, have you received a card, a check or a certificate that will allow you to buy an object, an activity or an experience in exchange for a payment already made? How do you know if it’s not a poisoned gift?
“A prepaid card” is, for example, a cell phone card, a prepaid credit card or a gift card valid in a specific location, such as a bookstore. Several rules govern this type of gift.
A refundable cash balance
The balance on this card is refundable in cash under certain conditions. You must request it from the trade, and the balance must be $5 or less.
This rule is valid for all prepaid cards, except if it is a cell phone card or a prepaid credit card.
No more expiration date!
There is also no need to rush to the store to use your prepaid card, unless it is a cell phone card or a card that gives unlimited access to a service, such as a bus pass.
The reason is simple: all other prepaid cards can no longer have an expiry date. You have been warned!
Don’t hesitate to talk about it
Are you having a problem using your gift card?
Discuss it with the people responsible for the place where it can be used. If you are unable to resolve the problem in this way, you can file a complaint with the Office de la protection du consommateur.
