Must Read: Federal Reserve and FTC Gift Card Resources

The Federal Reserve and FTC both have information on how consumers can best protect themselves this season when purchasing and using gift cards.  A new gift card law went into effect on August, 22 2010, significantly changing the rules regarding expiration dates, replacement cards, fee disclosure and limits.  Their simple one page articles can help you determine how the new gift card law will make your life as a consumer a bit easier.

FTC Alert - Buying, Giving, and Using Gift Cards

Federal Reserve -  What You Need To Know: New Rules For Gift Cards

The FTC site also includes an 800# to contact in case of problems with a retailer or bank that refuses to honor the gift card according to the new gift card law.