by Elloit Klier

Gift cards are an ideal gift for any occasion. They allow the recipient to get exactly what they want or need - when they want or need it the most. During a recession especially, they can literally be lifesavers. Following are some ideas on which ones to give during a recession.

Gas Gift Cards: Gas for the car, like heat and lights, are a constant necessity. Eventually, the taking is going to have to be refilled. And it can be a budget buster if you're just scraping by, even if your car gets great gas mileage.

Gas cards are one gift that most every recipient can use. And, they come in handy when times are tight. If you know someone who is struggling to pay the bills, give them a gas gift card. They'll thank you for it when they pull up to the pump.

Restaurant Gift Cards: When money is tight, the first thing that usually gets cut out of the budget is extras like eating out. Restaurant gift cards can bring a little joy back into a struggling family's daily life at just the time it'll be most appreciated. How?

Consider this: Dad is working as much overtime as he can get. Mom has taken on a part-time job in addition to her full-time job. But, it barely makes it worthwhile once childcare expenses are paid. There's never enough for extras.

Allowing a family a meal out at a nice restaurant is an ideal gift for families struggling to make ends meet. It gives everyone a much-needed night of fun out.

Home Improvement Gift Cards: The kitchen faucet is leaking, the bathroom toilet is broken and the front windows need to be winterized. But, it's just not in the budget.

Home improvement gift cards are ideal gifts during a recession because they allow strapped homeowners to purchase the little things that can make a big difference - not only in the quality of life immediately, but save in long-term costs as well.

Protect Your Gift: Beware of Gift Card Fraud

Remember to always purchase cards from a reputable discount gift card seller who is not simply a third-party listing agent. If you're unsure, check their status with the Better Business Bureau.

Article courtesy of Elliot Klier, Director of Marketing, ABCGiftCards.com: Want to buy, sell or trade your gift cards? At ABC Gift Cards you can buy cheap gift cards, sell your unused gift cards, or trade your unwanted gift cards for other merchant cards. We are the largest, online secondary discounted gift cards marketplace accredited by the Better Business Bureau for outstanding customer service.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elliot_Klier