I got a warning the other day.

If you are in the habit of giving store specific gift cards as gifts, check first on the 'health' of that store. MANY store chains are closing or seriously downsizing immediately following the holidays. I'm not saying that you shouldn't do it, just check first so that you don't end up giving someone a worthless piece of plastic.

For instance:

Linens & Things is closing

Home Depot is downsizing & closing some stores

Circuit City is downsizing & closing MANY stores

Nextel is downsizing.

The list goes on & on.