Gift vouchers are becoming popular because whoever gets them can buy whatever they want, thus avoiding the hassle of exchanging gifts. However, upon purchasing these vouchers, one must be careful as to the terms and conditions that come with them.

Some have no strings attached and can be used any time, but there are others which come with an expiry date that must be adhered to by the user. Traders are not obliged to accept expired vouchers. Hence, vouchers should not be left for too long in a wallet or under a fridge magnet.

Consumers should also be careful with the way a voucher could be used, especially if high-value vouchers are purchased. Some have to be used at one go, while other vouchers can be split up, like for instance if a product of a lesser value is chosen, another voucher is issued with the price difference.

One must also keep in mind that gift vouchers are not cash. They represent goods at face value. Therefore, traders are not obliged to give change if goods of a lesser value are chosen, unless the voucher specifically says so.

Care should be taken not to lose gift vouchers, because if this happens there is not much one can do. The only exception would be if the gift voucher is in the consumer's name and is marked 'not transferable'. This means the trader is likely to have a record of the voucher and may be prepared to cancel the original and issue another.

As gift vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash, even unwanted gifts cannot be returned and money expected back. It is a common misconception that people have a right to return goods. But legally, that right does not exist. Regardless of whether the good is purchased or received as a gift, if it is not faulty, legally, no refund policy or exchange applies.

Ms Vella is senior information officer, Consumer and Competition Division