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Johnson County

Research-based Information You Can Trust — Localized for your needs

Johnson County
11811 S. Sunset Drive
Suite 1500
Olathe, KS 66061

Office Hours:

Monday - Friday,
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

(913) 715-7000
(913) 715-7005 fax
jo@listserv.ksu.edu

Map to our office

K-State Research and Extension is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting Johnson County Extension at (913)715-7000. Notify staff of accommodation needs as early as possible.

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Cashing in on Gift Cards

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Do you love the thought of receiving a gift card, or winning one as a prize? But what if it’s for a store that isn’t in your area, or you just can’t find anything you want there.

Consumer Reports estimates that $2.5 billion worth of gift cards went unused in 2010. Rather than wasting this resource, you might consider using an online website to sell an unwanted card, donate it to a charity, or even use it to pay a bill. An internet search of “sell gift cards” or “donate gift cards” will give you millions of options.

There are a few things to remember when selling or donating a gift card.

  • Expect to get 50 to 90% of the face value of the card. “The cards to stores that have the broadest appeal like Target and Home Depot have the best cash-out ratios,” according to www.mymoneyblog.com. Shop around the online sites to get the most you can.
  • Payout is in various forms, including a credit to your credit card or PayPal account, or a check to you.
  • Some card websites are accredited by the Better Business Bureau, while others aren’t. Research a company you are considering at www.bbbonline.org.

You can buy gift cards discounted 10% or more from these websites, as well. When redeeming the gift card, shop during a sale or combine it with a percentage-off coupon at the retail store for even more savings.

Contact Us

Joy Miller

Family and Community Wellness Agent
joy.miller@jocogov.org