Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions you have about Gift Cards You Can Trust! 

The most important thing to know is that the CERTIFIED gift cards on this site have all been independently tested by Shelley Hunter, gift card expert and consumer advocate for over 15 years.

Certified Gift Card Badge

Merchants interested in becoming certified gift cards can visit GiftCardReform.com for more information.

What is GiftCardsYouCanTrust.com?

GiftCardsYouCanTrust.com is a platform dedicated to providing reliable and secure gift card options. We offer independent certification of gift cards to ensure they are easy to use, fraud-free, and guaranteed. Merchants should sign up for a review on GiftCardReform.com.

How are gift cards certified?

We purchase physical gift cards directly from the issuing merchant (e.g., store, restaurant, etc.) and test the end-to-end experience. Our rigorous testing includes purchasing gift cards, assessing security features, and evaluating consumer support in case of issues. We also redeem gift cards to ensure ease of use and flexibility.

What types of gift cards are reviewed?

We review physical gift cards from various merchants to comprehensively assess their performance and reliability. We primarily focus on national and large regional gift cards—those redeemable in multiple locations or popularly redeemed online. Currently, we do not test digital gift cards, as many national merchants use the same providers, resulting in similar experiences across the board.

How can I trust the reviews on this site?

Our reviews are conducted independently and without bias. Shelley Hunter, a leading expert in the gift card industry with over 15 years of experience, leads the review process to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What should I do if a gift card doesn't work?

If you encounter an issue with a gift card, refer to our detailed review for guidance on the problem-resolution process specific to that card. We outline the steps consumers can take and the support they can expect from the merchant.

Are there fees associated with this site?

No, there are no fees for consumers to access our reviews and information. Merchants pay for an independent review but are not allowed editorial control. They can only submit changes if we accidentally report inaccuracies. We aim to provide free, valuable insights to help you make informed gift card purchases.

How often are the gift card reviews updated?

We may occasionally update reviews to reflect significant changes in a gift card program, but generally, the reviews are repeated annually.

Can I suggest a gift card for review?

Yes! We welcome suggestions from consumers. If there is a specific gift card you would like us to review, please contact us through our website.

How do I know which gift cards are best?

The best gift card to buy is the one you believe the recipient will most enjoy. Beyond that, our reviews highlight each gift card's best features and potential improvements. Please review the detailed posts for the gift cards you are considering to make your decision.

Can I sign up to be a reviewer?

We appreciate your interest in joining our team of independent reviewers. Currently, Shelley personally trains a small group of reviewers to ensure the highest-quality output and attention to the details that matter most.

Why work with Shelley

If you're a merchant, Shelley brings a fresh perspective to your business and will help you create a consumer-first gift card experience. Visit GiftCardReform.com to sign up.

If you're a reporter on a deadline, send up a flare. With hundreds of interviews under her belt, Shelley can provide gift card insights quickly. Or you can join her media list to "stay in the loop" on gift card news, tips, and trends.

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