Gift cards are the classic one-size-fits-all present. They’ve become a go-to for coworkers, picky teens and more. But these little pieces of plastic offer many more benefits—even after December 31.
“I buy a few cards for gifts,” says longtime AMA member Randy Girard. “But my wife and I mainly use them for our own shopping throughout the year.”
A member since 1973, Girard recently discovered a lesser-known benefit of his AMA membership: earning 5% cash back when you purchase or reload any of AMA’s gift cards.
“Every few months, we buy ten $100 cards for Safeway,” he adds. “You have to get groceries anyway, so you may as well pre-pay for them and get cash back. We’ll earn enough this year to pay for our AMA membership renewal.”
The Girards purchase their cards at AMA’s Sherwood Park location, but you can get them at all AMA centres. AMA’s gift cards can be used at more than 60 different retail partners—for groceries, gas, dining, entertainment and shopping.
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Try these other smart card strategies too!
Wine and dine: Enjoy a night out with prepaid cards at eateries, including Montana’s, The Keg and Smitty’s.
Reload and go: Cards for Hudsons Canada’s Pub and the Ultimate Dining Card are reloadable. Top them up at an AMA centre or online.
Double dip: Retailers like Kernels are also AMA Rewards partners, meaning you get 5% cash back on the card, plus extra savings on in-store purchases. For all offers, visit AMARewards.ca/Save.
Membership matters: Don’t forget an AMA membership card. A gift membership truly keeps on giving all year long!