It happens to everyone. We get a gift and we just don’t like it or need it. Sometimes we’re with the person and have to accept it and feign enthusiasm uncomfortably. It’s painful, we know. But when you get a gift you don’t want, don’t let it clutter your life. Try to put it to good use by making someone else happy or by exchanging it for something you do like.
How to handle unwanted gifts
- Sometimes you just don’t like or want the gift, and that’s ok.
- In almost every case, the gifter struggles with what to get you and just wants you to know they are thinking of you.
- If you returned it or regifted it, and the original gifter asks how you are enjoying it, just lie. It’s ok.
- Sell your gift cards! Check out Raise.com to sell yours. And also, check out what’s for sale.
And here’s a tip for future years: tell your friends and families what you want or don’t want. Set limits and boundaries to ensure you don’t get stuck with unwanted gifts in the future.
Because the holidays are in a big part for kids and toys, and because those toys can be of terrible quality, we know they make break. Sometimes immediately. What happens when you buy your kid a toy and it breaks Christmas morning?
How to handle broken Gifts
- Return to the retailer
- The person at the counter doesn’t care about you. Don’t invent an elaborate story. Just walk up and tell them you’d like to return it.
- Return to the manufacturer
- This information is usually hidden deep inside websites, but it’s there. Sometimes, the manufacturers prefer you contact them before going to the retailer because it’s more cost-effective.
- File a claim with your credit card
- Many credit cards offer insurance for damaged items. It doesn’t matter if it’s your fault!
- The filing process can be a bit tedious, and that’s by design. Stick with it, though, and you will likely get a statement credit for that item.
Top 3 takeaways:
- It’s ok to not like all your gifts. Don’t hold onto something you don’t want.
- When a gift breaks, don’t give in. Get a refund or exchange.
- It is the thought that counts, so consider doing fewer physical gifts for your loved ones and find interesting ways to show them you care.
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Show references:
#043 | Know and use your credit card benefits
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