Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Are expiration dates on gift certificates legal?

I received two $25.00 gift certificates several years ago (6 to be exact), I miss pleaced them and recently located them. Both issued in January of 2000 with an expiration/valid for one year.


Asked on 12/11/06, 10:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Are expiration dates on gift certificates legal?

Attorney Starrett is right that gift certificates issued by -stores- in California don't expire. If, however, you bought a Visa or other bank-issued gift card, the card may be subject to (weak or non-existent) Federal regulations.

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Answered on 12/12/06, 1:42 am
Carl Starrett Law Offices of Carl H. Starrett II

Re: Are expiration dates on gift certificates legal?

Although there are some exceptions to the rule, California law prohibits the sale of gift certicates that contain expiration dates. See Civil Code Section 1749.5 and the sections that follow. A gift certicate issued in 2000 should still be valid.

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Answered on 12/11/06, 10:23 pm


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