Do Gift Cards Expire? US Rules for Starbucks, Amazon and Visa
Most US gift cards can't legally expire for at least five years, and many popular brands promise they'll never expire at all. Prepaid Visa cards are the main exception you need to watch.
The federal CARD Act
The Credit CARD Act of 2009 says store gift cards and general-use prepaid cards must stay valid for at least five years from activation or from the last time money was loaded. Inactivity fees can only be charged after 12 months without use, and only one per month.
Starbucks, Amazon and Visa compared
Each card follows different rules:
- Starbucks Cards don't expire and have no fees.
- Amazon.com gift cards don't expire and have no fees.
- Prepaid Visa card funds generally don't expire, but the physical card has an expiration date and some cards charge monthly fees after inactivity.
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State laws
Many states go further than federal law. California, for example, bans expiration dates on most gift cards and lets you cash out small balances under $10. Check your state's consumer protection office for the rules where you live.
Promotional cards are different
Bonus or promotional cards given free with a purchase aren't covered by the five-year rule and often expire within weeks. The same is true for reward credits unless the terms say otherwise. Use them first. Reward cards from GiftCardsBest partner campaigns are delivered as regular gift cards, but always read the card's own terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can a store refuse an old gift card?
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If it's within the legal validity period, generally no. Keep the receipt and contact the retailer.
Do Visa gift cards expire?
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The funds usually don't, but the card itself does. Ask the issuer for a replacement card.