Tips for regifting or getting money for your unused gift cards from 7 On Your Side

NEW YORK (WABC) -- It's the easiest gift to give and receive: gift cards! They're the most popular present, and the industry makes a whopping $214 billion selling gift cards.

But a lot of that money goes unused. Here's how to get rid of that gift card glut.

Let's be honest, how many gift cards do you think are sitting in your wallet or junk drawer at home? Well, you're not alone.

According to Enjovia, which helps businesses manage gift cards and vouchers, one in five people in the United States has an unused gift card. About 47% of people surveyed worldwide admit they're letting their gift cards collect dust, and that adds up big time. We're talking $21 billion left in unused gift card balances overall, which breaks down to roughly $187 per person on average just left on the table.

So what can you do if you have gift cards you don't ever see yourself using?

First, try to buy, sell, or trade. There are sites like Prepaid2Cash, CardCash, and GiftCash that will let you sell your gift cards for up to 92% of their value, so at least you're getting something in return.

Regifting is a great option to save you time and money, just remember who gave it to you.

Write the initials of the person who gave you the card so you don't regift it to them, and take a photo of the card front and back so it will be right in your camera roll.

Finally, you can donate them! St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Gift Cards 4 Change accept gift cards for charity.

----------
SHARE YOUR STORY

Do you have an issue with a company that you haven't been able to resolve? If so, 7 On Your Side wants to help you!

Fill out the form below or email your questions, issues, or story ideas by filling out the form below or by emailing 7OnYourSideNina@abc.com. All emails MUST INCLUDE YOUR NAME AND CELLPHONE NUMBER. Without a phone number, 7 On Your Side will not be able to respond.