Ways to cash in your unwanted gift cards

NEW YORK

Websites where consumers can sell and trade unwanted gift cards, or purchase them at a discounted rate have become more popular, and that's probably why crooks want a piece of the action.

Scams can include sending buyers expired gift cards, stolen gift cards, or fake gift cards with zero store value. So, stick to those with an established reputation or seek out online reviews of the website where you plan to do your gift card commerce.

Be mindful that there may be fees attached for your transactions. and know whether the website acts simply as a facilitator between consumers, or offers you more protections.

And just because you don't plan to use a gift card in the next week or next month, doesn't mean you have to unload it.

Federal law says gift cards are good for at least five years, if they have an expiration date at all.

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