I have a love/hate relationship with gift cards. On the one hand, they are easy gifts to buy for friends and family. On the other hand, I hate using them. You're stuck with whatever store the gift ...

Know the rules, then use them fast: Balances last 5 years; inactivity fees after 12 months; some states cash out small leftovers (e.g., CA $10) Buy low, sell smart: Warehouse clubs = easy 20% off; ...

If you received a gift card for Christmas to a place you normally don't visit, you may want to sell it. Just know you won't get the full value. And if there is a seller offering to pay face value or ...