WhiteS2k

The Shopping - are you done? thread brought up the subject of giving Gift Certificates (otherwise known as Gift Cards around here). I wonder why not just give cash? Why restrict the receipient to spend the money at only one location with a Gift Card when cash can be spent on anything anywhere?

If someone is going to give me spending money, I'd prefer cash instead of a Gift Card. Opinions?

Lainey

My .02. A gift card shows a little more thought was put into the gift. I know which restaurants my son likes and I know where he and his wife get their hair cut, so I make the trips to get the certificates.

There is nothing wrong with cash. The gift card, to me, is a bit more personal, I like to receive them, though cold hard cash is never refused.

boltonblue

I prefer cash. gifts cards have nasty little restrictions in them and some decay over time.
i.e. they are charged a fee every month until there is nothing left.

Kyras

I didn't give any gift cards this year but my kids both had something specific in mind so I sent them checks that covered the purchase prices.

dlq04

Personally I think gift cards are a pain.

Jumpy Guy

With 33% of gift cards never cashed in, they are a retailers dream.

PJRider

Cash is King!

Lainey

People, please send me the gift cards you don't want, or the ones you think you might forget to use.

If you buy a gift card for a place the recipients will frequent, it will get used. I've always used every gift card or gift certificate I've received.

I know some folks who toss them in a drawer and forget about them, but they have a lot more $$ than we do.

dlq04

Exactly. I just found one in a coat pocket by accident when I was making room for winter coats in the closet. I won't tell you how long it was there!

gomarlins3

I have done both. Depends on who the person is and what exactly they want. I have also used pre-paid debit cards as well.