A gift card is a prepaid card that contains a specific amount of money, which can be used as a form of payment at designated stores or businesses. They are typically given as a gift, allowing the recipient to choose their own items within the monetary limit on the card.

Here’s a basic breakdown of a gift card’s features:

1. Preloaded Value: The card comes with a predetermined balance, which could range from small amounts like $10 to higher amounts like $500 or more.
2. Usage: It can be used for purchasing products or services from specific retailers, online platforms, or restaurants. Some cards are store-specific, while others are more flexible, such as Visa or Mastercard gift cards, which can be used at multiple locations.
3. Physical or Digital: Gift cards can be physical (a plastic card) or digital (a code sent via email or mobile).
4. Expiration and Fees: Some gift cards have expiration dates or inactivity fees if not used within a certain period, though laws in some areas regulate this.
5. Customization: Many gift cards can be personalized with a message, design, or theme, making them a popular choice for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.

Let me know if you’re looking for more specific information about gift cards!