How Long Your Card Stays Valid
While your card still has a balance, the validity period depends on the type of card and where it was issued:
- Gift cards purchased in or shipped to the UK: valid for 24 months from the activation date.
- Gift cards purchased in or shipped to the Republic of Ireland: valid for 5 years from the activation date.
- Refund cards (UK or Republic of Ireland): valid for 12 months from the activation date.
If the card reaches a zero balance and stays at £0 or €0, it will automatically expire after 30 days. This happens without notice, so it's always a good idea to top up within that window if you intend to keep using your card.
What Happens When Your Card Expires
Once the validity period ends, any remaining balance will be removed, and the card can no longer be used.
Can the expiry date be extended?
- No - the validity period can’t be extended if it has expired.
- Once a gift card or refund card reaches the end of its validity period, any remaining balance is removed and the card can’t be reactivated.
We know this might not be the answer you were hoping for; we simply want to be upfront so you have clear, confident expectations.
Topping Up Your Gift Card
If your gift card is still within its validity period — or within 30 days after the balance reaches zero — you’re welcome to top it up in any Ann Summers store:
- You can top up up to a maximum value of £500 in UK stores.
- You can top up up to a maximum value of €500 in Irish stores.
- Topping up your card does not extend or change the original validity period.