There are lots of card/coupon/certificate auctions, and just as many carefully worded scams, as I call them.  Avoid getting taken!  Please read the auction very carefully and ask questions before you bid.

Watch out for:
     Expired cards/coupons/certificates.  Sellers may be selling them as collectible rather than useable!

     Restricted or limited use.                In the past I purchased $100 gift certificate.  When it arrived it was 20 $5
                                                           certificates that were $5 off a $25 purchase and could not be combined.
                                                           LEARN FROM MY EXPERIENCE

     No longer honored                         Many companies stop honoring coupons after a certain number have been
                                                           redeemed.  Make sure the coupons you are purchasing are manufactures coupons,
                                                           and not laser printed copies or xeroxes.

     Partially Used Gift Cards                These can be easily drained after you have left feedback.  Also, NEVER recharge
                                                           partially used cards as the card number and access code may be in the hands of
                                                           someone you don't know!

     Entertainment Book Coupons          In many cases, store owners are asking to see the Entertainment Card that came
                                                            with the book.  Pretty embarrassing if you only have the coupon, as they will not
                                                            accept it.

      Emailed Coupons                           This is usually a scam, as you can just as easily do a Yahoo search for the link.

      Good Only At...                             Some coupons/cards/certificates are only accepted at a single location.  Ask
                                                            before you purchase!

       Old Gift Cards                               Some cards start deducting monthly service fees if the card is not used frequently.

       Calling Cards                                 Calling cards are tricky.  Some are in units and others are in minutes.  Most use
                                                             several units or minutes instantly if you use a pay phone to dial.  Be careful!

        Gymboree                                     Gymbucks are great IF you receive them.  Insure them if you buy them!

Gift Cards:  I recommend confirming the balance on the gift cards immediately upon receipt and taking them to the store to transfer the balance to a new card (or do so online if available), if you do not plan on using the same day. 

Gift Certificates:  Call the store regarding gift certificates and confirm that it is genuine and write down the name of the employee you speak with, just to be on the safe side.

Hopefully this guide will help save you a few more dollars!  Please click YES below if this guide was helpful.  Also, if you would like to add anything to the guide, let me know and I will do so.