Yes. For most types of gift cards, it is illegal for gift cards to expire or have an expiry date in California. This applies to businesses based in California or anyone selling gift cards to California residents. There are some exceptions where an expiry date can exist:
- Gift cards issued from loyalty, award, or promotional programs where no money or other thing of value is given in exchange – eg: if a customer makes 10 purchases and as a result is issued a $10 voucher, it can have an expiry date
- Gift cards used at multiple, unrelated sellers
- Cards issued in lieu of refunds for returned merchandise
- Gift cards sold in bulk below face value to an employer with a volume discount or those sold or donated to nonprofits below face value (as long as they expire within 30 days of sale)
- Gift cards for perishable food products.
For these exceptions, the expiration date must be printed in 10-point capital letters on the front. For digital gift cards, it must be clearly stated wherever the gift card is visible in emails or web pages.
Read more about all relevant California gift card laws here.
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