If I didn’t activate my gift card, does the expiration still apply?

Yes. In most cases, the validity period of a gift card begins from the date of purchase, not the date of activation. This means that even if you haven’t activated or used the card, the countdown toward its expiry may already be running.

However, expiry rules can vary depending on the retailer and country regulations. Some cards may only become active once they are registered or first used, while others automatically start their validity period as soon as they are issued.

To avoid losing value, it’s important to check the terms and conditions printed on the card or provided by the retailer. If you’re unsure, contacting the issuing merchant directly is the best way to confirm when the expiry period begins.