Not a deal, but a very important tip to pass along during this holiday shopping season.  Consumer Reports says you, and your giftee, could be left holding the bag when you use gift cards.

These days, many chains are have filed bankruptcy – including Circuit City, Sharper Image, and Linens n Things.  Some of the ailing businesses are no longer accepting gift card redemptions, or are telling card holders to get in line and make a claim in bankruptcy court.   Consumers are wise to check and make sure they are getting gift cards from a financially healthy place.  Search Google news with the query  "name of business" AND bankruptcy and that should help arm you with good information before you shop.  Also check the store’s website for their gift card policies.

Mark writes:

I saw this article and rethought my christmas shopping.  I was going to buy everyone gift cards.  Lucky, I didn’t buy a Circuit City gift card.  I might still buy starbuck cards because everyone loves to drink coffee.  I rather gift money for gifts because it’s easier for me because I worry that they won’t like the gift I got them. 

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