According to new regulations introduced by the government of British Columbia, prepaid purchase cards (which include gift cards and gift certificates) issued or sold after November 1, 2008 are not allowed to have expiry dates or fees except in certain circumstances.

Consumer Protection BC supports this change as it increases protection for consumers while still taking into account the needs of businesses. The regulations are good news for consumers, especially in time for Christmas.  Consumers and businesses should be aware of the following important information;

Permitted Expiry Dates

Expiry dates are allowed in the following circumstances:

• For cards issued or sold for charitable or promotional purposes.
• For cards issued or sold for a specific good or service.

Fees

Fees are permitted for:

• Personalizing a card, for example with the consumer’s picture.
• Replacing a lost or stolen card.
• Cards that may be used at multiple unaffiliated sellers, which are commonly known as mall cards.

Disclosure

Businesses must disclose the following information when the card is purchased in a manner that is likely to bring it to the attention of the purchaser:

• All restrictions, limitations, terms and conditions on the use, redemption or replacement of cards, including any permitted fees or expiry dates.>
• How a consumer can obtain more information, including any remaining balance.

Please note that government has indicated that cards with credit card branding or logos as well as phone cards are exempt from this regulation.

This gift card legislation is enforced by Consumer Protection BC.  Consumers are encouraged to contact the business directly to resolve any issues.  If the problem can’t be resolved, please contact the Consumer Protection BC Inquiry Centre

Additional Resources:

• Please read the new regulations.
• Check out a visual representation of the gift card regulations.
• Please view the changes to gift card legislation in BC made in the spring of 2008 (sections 1 through 4 refer to prepaid purchase cards).

This page contains an overview of gift card legislation in BC. Consumer Protrection BC encourages consumers and businesses to read the law in full.