Supply and Demand

Right after holidays, there’s a surge in people looking to offload unwanted gift cards, but also increased demand from bargain hunters.

Retailer Promotions

Many retailers run post-holiday sales, increasing the value of their gift cards on the secondary market.

Avoiding Fees

Selling sooner prevents monthly maintenance fees that many cards start charging after 12-18 months of inactivity.

Is there a worst time to sell gift cards?

The summer months (June-July) typically see lower demand and rates, as do the weeks immediately before major holidays when retailers often restrict gift card redemptions for promotions.

How much more can I get by timing my sale right?

Strategic timing can increase your payout by 15-25% compared to selling during low-demand periods. For example, a $100 gift card might fetch $92 in January but only $75 in July.

Should I hold onto gift cards to sell during peak season?

Only if the card has no expiration or fees. For cards that charge monthly fees after a certain period, it’s often better to sell sooner rather than wait for a slightly better rate.

• Mark Your Calendar

Set reminders for the optimal selling windows based on the holiday calendar. The first two weeks after major holidays typically offer the best rates.

• Monitor Market Trends

Check gift card exchange rates regularly as holidays approach. Some platforms offer price tracking and alerts when rates increase.

• Bundle Strategically

Some buyers offer better rates for multiple cards from the same retailer. Consider pooling cards with friends or family to qualify for bulk rates.