When you purchase a gift card in Ohio, you can be assured that the gift card will retain its full value for some time. The sale of gift cards expiring within two years of sale is prohibited by law.

“Gift card” means a certificate, electronic card, or other medium issued by a merchant in exchange for the right to redeem the certificate, electronic card, or other medium for goods, food, services, credit, or money of at least an equal value.

Gift Card Facts

No person shall sell a gift card to a consumer containing an expiration date of less than two (2) years, after the date the card is issued.

·         No service fees or administrative charges can reduce the value of the gift card during the first to (2) years.

·         A gift card with no expiration date means it is valid until redeemed or until the merchant replaces it with a new gift card.

·         Gift card does not include a prepaid calling card used to make telephone calls.

When the Gift Card Law Does Not Apply

·         A gift card sold by a nonprofit or charitable organization for fundraising purposes.

·         A gift card distributed by the issuer to a consumer as an award, loyalty or promotional program without any money or anything of value being given in exchange for the card.

·         A gift card that is usable in multiple, unaffiliated businesses or for services.

• A gift card issued to any employee in recognition of services performed or a gift card that an employer gives to an employee if use of the card is limited to the employer’s business establishment.

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