Christmas Is A Coming - What to Do?

First, whatever you do, think twice about buying a "store specific cash card" to give as gifts. Whether it be to Gap, American Eagle, A & E, etc etc there is a better option. It seems this Christmas season the great doubt about the economy, the tremendous layoffs and the shrinking consumer dollar has all fueled fear of many store closings. What to do for those who like to shop and for those who like to spend their own cash, you can get Visa Gift Cards at almost any bank. You won't pay a fee if you already bank where you buy them. You simply give the cash to the bank and they activate a VISA card with that amount on it to be used wherever VISA is accepted. They usually have gift envelopes as well. The person you give the VISA card to will have a full year to use the funds on the card. Always ask about any extra charges should your gift receivers forget their balances and have to call a special number to receive their balance of funds left to spend. For most though, there are no extra charges. As with everything in life, never assume, always ask.