I Save Up Gift Cards During the Year to Pay for Presents

by Jasmine
(Annapolis, Maryland)

To make Christmas shopping more affordable this year, I have been "stocking up" on gift cards given to me free this year.

I got this idea after transferring a prescription to a local pharmacy that offered a free $25.00 gift card coupon.

I didn't really need anything from the store that day so I kept it and joked to my husband that I would save it for the holidays.

After giving it some thought I realized that would be a great idea!

That day I set a goal to pay for all my Christmas gifts this year with gift cards that I earn through the year.

Pharmacy coupons now make up $125.00 of my Christmas budget, while cards earned from Discover (using our reward points) are allowing me another $225.00 so far.

Target Stores often offer free gift cards when you purchase grocery items, or electronics.

My Coke Rewards points can be redeemed for gift certificates.

Stores change, but I have some for K-Mart, Best Buy, Chilis and Nike.

I have verified that none of the cards have an expiration date, and all can be used in conjunction with coupons.

I can't wait to start shopping.

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