A Shopping gift card is like a prepaid card that can be used as an alternative to cash for purchases at specific stores or other businesses. These gift cards are often given as gifts or rewards because they offer flexibility for the recipient to choose their own items while limiting the options to a particular set of retailers. They can be a convenient and versatile present for various occasions.

Activation requirements for shopping gift cards vary by retailer. While some cards may require activation at the time of purchase, others are pre-activated and ready to use immediately upon purchase.

Always check with the specific retailer for their activation policy regarding gift cards.

A few of the commonly used shopping gift cards include Amazon, eBay, and Target.

Shopping gift cards operate as stored value cards that can be used as a form of payment at participating retail stores. You load money onto the card, and either you or the recipient can use it to make purchases up to the available balance at the designated stores.

For shopping gift cards bought directly from retailers, there are usually no extra fees like activation or dormancy charges. These gift cards are meant for easy use, allowing the recipient to redeem the full value without deductions.