Summary
New rules in California will allow people to redeem gift cards worth less than $15 for cash starting April 1, 2026. The changes include both physical and electronic gift cards and require retailers to inform customers about their rights to cash out these cards. The goal is to give consumers more control over unused gift cards.
Key Facts
- California will change gift card rules to allow cash redemption for cards worth less than $15.
- The new rule takes effect on April 1, 2026.
- Previously, only gift cards under $10 could be redeemed for cash in California.
- Both physical and electronic gift cards are included in the new law.
- Retailers must clearly inform customers about their right to redeem cards for cash.
- 43% of American adults have unused gift cards, totaling around $23 billion in value.
- The average gift card value is $47.91, according to CapitalOne Shopping Research.
