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The Gift Card That Keeps On Giving

 

Gift cards — they're like the wildcard of your wallet. Some people might see them as an excuse to splurge on something they'd never buy with their hard-earned cash. But here in the land of frugal living, we know better. Since January, I've earned almost $600 in cash and gift cards just by taking surveys. While the cash is earmarked for bills, the gift cards? Well, they’re my secret weapon for stretching my budget even further. Let me share some tips on how to make a gift card the gift that keeps on giving.


1. Buy Gifts for Others

The most obvious choice is to use a gift card on yourself, but what if it’s for a store that doesn’t thrill you? Don’t toss it — that’s free money! Instead, use it to get a jump on your holiday or birthday shopping. Look for something the gift card can cover entirely or at least reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Even if you earned the gift card, consider using it to buy something special for someone else before treating yourself.


2. Regift It

We’ve all been there — you receive a gift card that doesn’t quite hit the mark. What to do? Regift it! Just make sure the person you’re giving it to didn’t give it to you last year. If a survey panel only offers gift cards to places that aren’t useful to you, think creatively. An e-gift card can easily be sent to a niece across the country for her birthday or Christmas. 


3. Use It Wisely

Not every survey panel offers cash options like PayPal or Visa Prepaid cards, so choosing the right gift card is key. Go for practicality. Opt for retailers that offer groceries, household goods, or pet supplies — think Walmart, Target, or Amazon. These stores allow you to buy necessities like milk, toilet paper, and shampoo without dipping into your household budget. And if you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can even use a gift card to cover your membership fee!


4. Splurge Carefully

If your budget is in good shape and you want to treat yourself, splurge carefully. Consider adding convenience to your life with a food delivery service. Or, expand your entertainment options by using a gift card to pay for a streaming service like Netflix. Planning a trip? Cash out for an Uber or Lyft gift card so you can have someone else handle the ride to the airport. And always remember, whether you’re shopping or dining out, wait for sales, use coupons, and take advantage of rewards programs to maximize your gift card’s value.


With a little creativity and planning, gift cards can be a valuable tool in your budgeting arsenal. So next time you find yourself with a gift card in hand, remember — it’s not just a license to spend; it’s a chance to give your budget a break!

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