As of November 1, 2008 new rules pertaining to prepaid purchase cards (a.k.a. gift cards/certificates) are in effect. The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General has passed legislation stating that cards issued or sold after November 1st will not be allowed to have expiry dates or charge fees, with a few exceptions. These exceptions include cards being sold by malls, cards sold for charitable or promotional purposes or for a specific good or service.
The government has stated that businesses can continue to use old card stock but are not allowed to charge a fee or have an expiry date on cards issued after November 1st, other than in the circumstances listed above. This new legislation is being enforced by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority (BCPCA). BPCPA will work with businesses to address any issues. If a business does not comply with the new law, it could be fined up to $50,000.
For more information visit the Prepaid Purchase Cards section of the BPCPA website.