New York City Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Jonathan Mintz reminds New Yorkers about their rights when returning unwanted gifts or cashing in their gift cards:

• All refund or exchange policies must be posted in the store. Surprise terms are illegal.
  
• If there is no policy posted, the store must allow full refunds within 20 days of the purchase.
  
• Any store that imposes limitations on gift cards must post a sign saying that terms and conditions apply and provide those specific terms on the actual gift card.
  
• Retailers cannot charge any retroactive fees for gift cards/certificates, or charge monthly fees on cards that are used within one year of their purchase.

The DCA wants New Yorkers to shop smart when hitting the streets for post-holiday shopping. A full list of holiday shopping tips with helpful information for visitors and residents is available on the DCA Web site www.nyc.gov/consumers. To request a pocket-size informational "gift card" or business flyer with holiday shopping tips, or to file a complaint, call 311 (or 212-NEW-YORK).