We all struggle with this age old question. Actually, its not that old. But, a question we struggle with nonetheless. I love receiving gift cards, but I am always unsure on whether I like giving them. Economically, they make sense. You allow someone to pick what they want, thus eliminating the possibility that they get something that they don’t want.
Is it thoughtful? I think so. You are being thoughtful enough to not get them something lame. Unfortunately there is always the possibility that you get a gift card to a store you don’t shop at. Man! This is getting complicated. Okay. Gift cards are better than lame gift cards, more thoughtful than cash, but not as tacky. How’s that?
My point: Don’t have one…today

Peter Dunn a.k.a. Pete the Planner® is an award-winning financial mind and a former comedian. He’s a USA TODAY columnist, author of ten books, and is the host of the popular radio show and podcast, The Pete the Planner Show. Pete is considered one of the foremost experts on financial wellness in the world, but he’s just as likely to talk your ear off about bass fishing.