COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
- Public health restrictions: Alberta entered Step 2 on March 1.
- Book your vaccine: Albertans 5+ can get it now. Get third dose when eligible.
COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
Rules and regulations surrounding the use of gift cards in Alberta.
Gift cards purchased in Alberta are not subject to expiry dates and fees that lower their value over time. This includes cards purchased in Alberta on the internet.
Alberta’s Gift Card Regulation is part of the Consumer Protection Act. Under the Consumer Protection Act, businesses convicted of violating the Gift Card Regulation could face fines up to $300,000, two years in prison, or both.
Ask about all of the conditions that apply to the card before buying it.
For more information, see the Gift cards tipsheet.
The regulation applies to prepaid purchase cards that can be used like cash to pay for goods and services.
Prepaid purchase cards include:
Gift cards that do not have a cash value are not covered by the regulation. This includes:
Anyone who sells or accepts gift cards for payment must follow the requirements of the regulation.
If you are sold a gift card with an expiry date or one that includes additional fees not listed above, contact the business. This will give them an opportunity to comply with the regulation.
If this does not work, contact Service Alberta’s Consumer Contact Centre:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-427-4088
Toll free: 1-877-427-4088 (in Alberta)
Was this page helpful?
You will not receive a reply. Do not enter any personal information such as telephone numbers, addresses, or emails.
Your submissions are monitored by our web team and are used to help improve the experience on Alberta.ca. If you require a response, please go to our Contact page.