How to Easily Find Online Gift Cards

May 16
18:49

2024

Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore

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Gift certificates were once the go-to giveaways for stores and establishments during special occasions. These paper vouchers, which acted as cash substitutes, have now evolved into more efficient and versatile gift cards. This article delves into the world of gift cards, their types, and how you can easily find them online.

The Evolution of Gift Cards

Gift certificates,How to Easily Find Online Gift Cards Articles once a staple in retail and dining establishments, have transformed into modern gift cards. These cards, embedded with microchips, function similarly to ATM cards and are often referred to as "stored-value" or "prepaid" payment devices. Unlike debit cards, gift cards cannot be reloaded once their balance is depleted.

Types of Gift Cards

There are two primary types of gift cards: closed-system and open-system cards.

Closed-System Cards

Closed-system cards are specific to certain retailers or food chains. For example, Subway gift cards can only be used at Subway restaurants. Other examples include gift cards from Gap, Target, Wal-Mart, McDonald’s, and Pizza Hut. These cards are limited to the establishments specified on them.

Open-System Cards

Open-system cards, on the other hand, are issued by major credit card companies like American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. These cards can be used at any establishment that accepts credit cards, making them almost as versatile as cash.

The Popularity of Gift Cards

Gift cards have gained immense popularity over the years. According to a report by the National Retail Federation, gift cards have been the most requested holiday gift for 14 consecutive years (source: NRF). In 2020, the gift card market in the United States was valued at approximately $160 billion, and it is projected to reach $221 billion by 2024 (source: Statista).

How to Obtain Free Gift Cards

Many people are interested in obtaining free gift cards. Here are some effective ways to get them:

1. Online Surveys and Rewards Programs

Websites like Swagbucks and MyPoints offer points for completing surveys, watching videos, and shopping online. These points can be redeemed for gift cards from various retailers.

2. Credit Card Rewards

Many credit card companies offer rewards programs where you can earn points for every dollar spent. These points can be converted into gift cards for popular retailers and restaurants.

3. Promotional Giveaways

Keep an eye on promotional giveaways from your favorite brands. For instance, Subway occasionally offers free gift cards as part of their promotional campaigns. Check their official website for any ongoing offers.

4. Cashback Apps

Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cashback on purchases made through their platforms. The cashback can be redeemed for gift cards from a wide range of retailers.

Interesting Stats About Gift Cards

  • Unused Gift Cards: Approximately $3 billion worth of gift cards go unused each year in the United States (source: MarketWatch).
  • Digital Gift Cards: The digital gift card market is growing rapidly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.4% from 2021 to 2028 (source: Grand View Research).

Conclusion

Gift cards have revolutionized the way we give and receive presents. Whether you prefer closed-system cards from specific retailers or the versatility of open-system cards, there are numerous ways to obtain them, including for free. By leveraging online surveys, rewards programs, promotional giveaways, and cashback apps, you can easily find and enjoy the benefits of gift cards.

For more information on the latest trends and statistics in the gift card industry, visit reputable sources like the National Retail Federation and Statista.