#USA #Boca Raton #Tracy Tilson #Gift Card Day #National Retail Federation

National Use Your Gift Card Day Returns for 2026

As consumers embark on a new year filled with aspirations and energy, the upcoming National Use Your Gift Card Day™ presents a prime opportunity to spend the staggering sum of unused gift cards that Americans often overlook. On Saturday, January 17, individuals are encouraged to dig out their gift cards, often found lingering in wallets, drawers, or email inboxes, and finally put them to good use.

A Fresh Start in the New Year

Founded by Tracy Tilson, National Use Your Gift Card Day serves as a reminder that these cards were intended for enjoyment. “With the hustle and bustle of the holidays behind us, January is the ideal time to reevaluate and utilize the gift cards received during the season,” Tilson emphasizes. Many consumers are unaware that a recent report from Bankrate reveals that 43% of Americans hold at least one unused gift card, averaging a value of $244. This year, during holiday shopping, Americans purchased approximately $29.1 billion in gift cards, setting a new record compared to last year's $28.6 billion.

Gift cards consistently rank among the most coveted gifts not only for their flexibility but also for the freedom they provide in choosing what to purchase. However, these benefits are lost when consumers forget about their cards or fall victim to expiration dates, loss, or retailers going out of business. Furthermore, 20% of gift cards are never redeemed due to expiration, while 17% of people lose track of their cards entirely.

Retailers Rally to Support Smart Spending

Major brands, including Macy's, Ace Hardware, and Applebee's, are all rallying behind National Use Your Gift Card Day to promote strategic ways for consumers to maximize their gift card balances. For instance:

• - Macy's invites shoppers to take advantage of one of the most rewarding savings periods.
• - Ace Hardware reminds consumers to utilize their cards on essential tools and supplies for home improvement projects.
• - Applebee's encourages cardholders to enjoy a meal out with friends using holiday bonus cards.

Such partnerships emphasize the value of making prudent spending choices while significantly enhancing the overall experience of using gift cards.

Three Steps to Unlocking Your Gift Card Treasure

To help consumers make the most of their gift cards and welcome the new year positively, here are three straightforward steps to follow:
1. Find: Search through various locations like drawers, handbags, wallets (both digital and physical), and even email inboxes or under any leftover holiday decorations.
2. Organize: Gather all the found cards in one place, check for any expiration dates, and explore merchants' websites for potential after-holiday promotions, allowing for even greater savings.
3. Redeem: Take the plunge! Use the cards and indulge in something enjoyable and memorable to start 2026 on a satisfying and financially wise note.

Utilizing gift cards not only repays the thoughtfulness of the givers but also ensures you begin the new year without money left languishing, ultimately taking advantage of every opportunity.

For additional information and resources, visit UseYourGiftCard.com or contact [email protected].