§ 14–1319
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Com. Law § 14-1319 (2026)
Title 14. Miscellaneous Consumer Protection Provisions
Subtitle 13. Miscellaneous Provisions
§ 14–1319LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section, “gift certificate” means a device constructed of paper, plastic, or any other material that is:
(i)
Sold or issued by a person for a cash value that can be used to purchase goods or services; or
(ii)
Issued as a store credit for returned goods.
(2)
“Gift certificate” does not include:
(i)
A prepaid telephone calling card;
(ii)
A prepaid technical support card;
(iii)
A prepaid card for Internet services;
(iv)
A coupon for discounted goods or services;
(v)
A gift certificate that is distributed to an individual under an awards, loyalty, or promotional program in which the recipient does not give money or value for the gift certificate; or
(vi)
A gift card that:
(1)
Is processed through a national credit or debit card service; and
(2)
May be used to purchase goods or services from multiple unaffiliated sellers of goods or services.
(b)
A person may not sell or issue a gift certificate that, within 4 years after the date of purchase, is subject to expiration or a fee or charge of any kind.
(c)
Any term or condition concerning expiration or a fee or charge that takes effect more than 4 years after the date of purchase must be printed clearly in at least 10 point type in a visible place on:
(1)
The front or back of the gift certificate;
(2)
A sticker permanently affixed to the gift certificate; or
(3)
An envelope containing the gift certificate.
(d)
Unless the change benefits the consumer, a term or condition disclosed under subsection (c) of this section may not be changed after the date of purchase or issuance.
(e)
A gift certificate that is sold or issued in violation of this section shall be considered valid and may not be subject to expiration or any fee or charge.
(f)
A violation of any provision of this section:
(1)
Is an unfair or deceptive trade practice within the meaning of Title 13 of this article; and
(2)
Is subject to the enforcement and penalty provisions contained in Title 13 of this article, except § 13-411 of this article.