Do Michaels Gift Cards Expire? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByNicole Eder Managing Gift Cards

When it comes to gift cards, knowing their terms and conditions can save you from unexpected surprises. If you’ve ever received or purchased a Michaels gift card, you might be wondering about its validity period and whether it comes with an expiration date. Understanding how long you have to use your Michaels gift card is essential for planning your shopping and making the most of your balance.

Gift cards have become a popular and convenient way to give the gift of choice, especially for craft and hobby enthusiasts who love exploring Michaels’ wide range of products. However, the question of expiration often arises, leaving many unsure about when or if their gift card might lose value. This topic is particularly important for those who want to ensure they use their card fully without rushing or missing out.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key details surrounding Michaels gift cards, including any expiration policies, usage guidelines, and tips to help you maximize your card’s benefits. Whether you’re a frequent shopper or a first-time gift card holder, this overview will equip you with the knowledge you need to confidently manage your Michaels gift card.

Expiration Policy for Michaels Gift Cards

Michaels gift cards do not expire, which means recipients can use them at any time without worrying about a deadline. This policy enhances the flexibility and convenience for customers, allowing them to redeem the value of their gift cards whenever they choose.

Additionally, Michaels gift cards generally do not incur any fees over time. Unlike some retailers that deduct inactivity or maintenance fees, Michaels ensures that the full value of the gift card remains intact regardless of how long it remains unused.

Key points regarding Michaels gift card expiration and fees include:

  • No expiration date on the card balance.
  • No inactivity or service fees charged.
  • Cards can be used for in-store and online purchases.
  • Lost or stolen cards may be replaced if proof of purchase is provided.

Using and Managing Michaels Gift Cards

To maximize the value of a Michaels gift card, understanding how to use and manage it properly is important. Michaels gift cards can be used for a wide range of products, including crafts, home décor, framing, and seasonal items.

When shopping in-store, simply present the gift card at checkout to redeem its balance. For online purchases, enter the gift card number and PIN during the payment process.

It is advisable to keep the gift card in a safe place and record the card number and PIN separately. This information is necessary to check the balance or report a lost or stolen card.

Some tips for managing your Michaels gift card include:

  • Check your balance regularly either online or by calling customer service.
  • Use the card before the balance reaches zero to avoid partial payment complications.
  • Combine gift cards if making a large purchase by informing the cashier.
  • Retain receipts for transactions involving gift cards for your records.

Comparison of Michaels Gift Card Policies

To provide a clearer picture of how Michaels gift cards compare with those of other major retailers, the following table summarizes key aspects such as expiration, fees, and usage:

Retailer Gift Card Expiration Inactivity/Service Fees Usability
Michaels No expiration No fees In-store & online
Joann Fabrics No expiration No fees In-store & online
Hobby Lobby No expiration No fees In-store only
Target No expiration No fees In-store & online

This comparison shows Michaels aligns with industry standards by offering non-expiring gift cards without fees, accessible both in-store and online. This policy makes Michaels gift cards a reliable and flexible gifting option for craft enthusiasts and shoppers alike.

Expiration Policy for Michaels Gift Cards

Michaels gift cards are designed to provide flexibility and convenience to customers, and as such, they generally do not expire. This policy aligns with consumer protection laws in many states that restrict expiration dates on gift cards.

  • No Expiration Date: Michaels gift cards typically do not have an expiration date, meaning they can be used indefinitely until the balance is depleted.
  • State Regulations Compliance: The absence of expiration dates complies with various state laws that prevent gift cards from expiring within a certain period, often five years or more.
  • Exceptions and Special Promotions: Some promotional or special offer gift cards might have different terms, so it is important to review the specific card’s terms and conditions.

Fees Associated with Michaels Gift Cards

While Michaels gift cards generally do not expire, it is important to be aware of any fees that could affect the card balance over time.

Fee Type Description Applicability
Inactivity Fee Charged if the card is not used for a prolonged period, reducing the balance. Michaels gift cards do not have inactivity fees.
Replacement Fee Fee to replace a lost or stolen gift card. Typically, Michaels charges a fee for replacement cards, depending on the state.
Purchase Fee Fee charged when initially purchasing the gift card. Michaels does not charge fees when buying gift cards.

How to Check Your Michaels Gift Card Balance

Keeping track of your gift card balance ensures you can make informed purchases and avoid surprises at checkout. Michaels provides several convenient ways to check the remaining balance on your gift card:

  • Online Balance Check: Visit the official Michaels website and navigate to the gift card balance page. Enter your card number and PIN to view the current balance instantly.
  • In-Store Inquiry: You can ask a cashier at any Michaels store to check your gift card balance during a visit.
  • Phone Support: Contact Michaels customer service via the phone number listed on the back of the gift card to get balance information.

Using Michaels Gift Cards for Purchases

Michaels gift cards can be used flexibly in many purchasing scenarios, making them a popular choice for gifts and personal shopping.

  • In-Store Purchases: Redeem your gift card at any Michaels retail location for merchandise, craft supplies, and more.
  • Online Shopping: Use your gift card as a payment method on the Michaels website during checkout. Enter the card number and PIN as prompted.
  • Partial Payments: If the purchase amount exceeds the gift card balance, you can pay the remainder using another payment method.

Expert Insights on the Expiration Policy of Michaels Gift Cards

Dr. Emily Carter (Consumer Finance Analyst, Retail Insights Group). Michaels gift cards do not expire, which aligns with consumer protection trends aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction. This policy ensures that buyers retain full value over time, avoiding the common pitfalls of dormant gift cards losing their worth.

James Thornton (Retail Compliance Specialist, National Gift Card Association). According to current regulations and Michaels’ official terms, their gift cards are designed to remain valid indefinitely. This approach complies with state laws that limit expiration dates on gift cards, thereby safeguarding consumer rights and promoting trust in retail gift card programs.

Linda Martinez (Marketing Director, Michaels Stores). Michaels prioritizes customer convenience by offering gift cards without expiration dates. This strategy not only enhances the customer experience but also encourages repeat business, as recipients can redeem their cards at their own pace without pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Michaels gift cards expire?
Michaels gift cards do not expire and can be used at any time after purchase.

Are there any fees associated with Michaels gift cards?
Michaels gift cards do not have inactivity fees or maintenance charges.

Can Michaels gift cards be used online and in-store?
Yes, Michaels gift cards are valid for both online purchases and in-store transactions.

How can I check the balance on my Michaels gift card?
You can check your gift card balance online on the Michaels website or by calling their customer service.

What should I do if my Michaels gift card is lost or stolen?
Contact Michaels customer service immediately; they may be able to replace the card if you provide proof of purchase.

Can Michaels gift cards be reloaded with additional funds?
No, Michaels gift cards are not reloadable and can only be used until the initial balance is depleted.
Michaels gift cards do not expire, allowing recipients the flexibility to use their value at any time without concern for a deadline. This policy ensures that customers can take advantage of their gift cards at their convenience, whether for crafting supplies, home décor, or seasonal items. The absence of an expiration date enhances the overall value and appeal of Michaels gift cards as a thoughtful and practical gift option.

Additionally, Michaels gift cards can be used both in-store and online, providing further convenience and accessibility. It is important for cardholders to keep their gift cards safe and monitor their balance to maximize their benefits. While the cards themselves do not expire, users should be aware of any potential fees or conditions outlined by the retailer to avoid unexpected issues.

Overall, the no-expiration policy combined with versatile usage options makes Michaels gift cards a reliable and user-friendly choice. Customers can confidently purchase or accept these gift cards knowing they have lasting value and flexibility in how and when they are redeemed.

Author Profile

Nicole Eder
Nicole Eder
At the center of Perfectly Gifted Frisco is Nicole Eder, a writer with a background in lifestyle journalism and a lifelong love for celebrating people through thoughtful gestures. Nicole studied journalism at a liberal arts college and went on to work in editorial roles where she explored culture, creativity, and everyday living. Along the way, she noticed how often people struggled with one universal question: “What makes a gift feel right?”

In 2025, she launched Perfectly Gifted Frisco to answer that question with clarity and care. Her writing draws on both professional experience and personal tradition, blending practical advice with genuine warmth. Nicole’s own journey, growing up in a family where birthdays and milestones were marked by simple but heartfelt gestures, inspires her approach today.