Attorney General Peter W. Heed issued a reminder today to consumers and businesses that effective January 1, 2004 there is a significant change in the gift certificate/gift card law in the State of New Hampshire.

According to Heed, businesses may no longer charge a dormancy fee or administrative fee for gift cards that are not used by a certain time. “Many gift cards have small print on the back of the card advising consumers that if they don’t use the card, usually within 6 to 12 months, there will be up to a $2.50 charge per month taken from the value of the card for non-use.”

“We are pleased that consumers will now be able to keep the full value of the gift cards which they purchase,” Heed said. “It was inherently unfair that consumers were loosing money for non-use and we are grateful that the New Hampshire Legislature passed this law.”

Heed urges any consumers or businesses with questions to please contact the Consumer Protection Bureau at 271-3641. A copy of the law can be accessed at the State of New Hampshire website

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