For Immediate Release:
March 13, 2010
Year round shopping tips and reminders
Consumer protection week continues with gift card assistance
FREEHOLD – No matter what the occasion, gift cards and gift certificates are the gift of choice for many people. If you will be purchasing a gift card or planning to redeem one, the Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs has some important reminders to help you make the best use of your gift buying dollars.
“Redeem your gift card or gift certificate as soon as possible,” said Patricia Watson, director of the Department of Consumer Affairs. “Gift cards and gift certificates are valid for at least 24 months after purchase, but after 24 months a retailer can charge a fee, not to exceed $2 per month. Also keep in mind that this rule does not apply to bank-issued cards that can be redeemed at an automatic teller machine or at a merchant.”
This is just one of the reminders offered by the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs during national Consumer Protection Week, March 7 - 13. Other gift card reminders are:
- Some gift cards may not be used to purchase items online. Be sure to read the fine print. It can make a big difference in how someone redeems your gift.
- If you find yourself with a gift card or gift certificate for a company or retailer that is no longer in business, remember that a new business owner is not obligated to honor the gift card you purchased from the previous owner. If you find yourself in this situation, contact the Department of Consumer Affairs for assistance.
- If you place a deposit or started a layaway purchase on merchandise, make sure you know the specific terms of your deposit or layaway agreement. An order cancellation or late payment can be difficult. Also, if the business suddenly closes, your investment may be lost.
“Many consumers call to say their favorite restaurant or nail salon is under new ownership, and they can’t use their gift certificate,” said Watson. “Or, they may find that the furniture store where they recently placed an order is now empty. The Consumer Affairs staff may be able to provide assistance. We are ready, willing and able to meet consumers and help them resolve all sorts of consumer-related issues.”
National Consumer Protection Week is a coordinated consumer education campaign that encourages individuals across the country to take full advantage of their consumer rights.
“The message of Consumer Protection Week 2010 is simple: It’s never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry. “Regardless of your age or financial situation, there are useful lessons to learn about spending and managing money wisely. We invite everyone to log onto the county’s Web site at www.visitmonmouth.com for the tools they can use for making smarter decisions in the marketplace. ”
This year’s theme -- Dollars & Sense: Rated “A” for All Ages -- highlights the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life – from grade school to retirement. In recognition of the week, Monmouth County is promoting free resources to help people protect their privacy, manage money and debt, avoid identity theft, understand credit and mortgages, and steer clear of frauds and scams.
Additional information about consumer affairs programs can be found on the county Web site at
www.visitmonmouth.com or by calling 732-431-7900. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
# # #