So whether you're on the giving end or the receiving, chances are there will be a gift card in your future.

According to the 2006 American Express Gift Card survey, 66 percent of shoppers plan to give a gift card tduring the holidays, compared with 57 percent last year. (Apparel-givers are holding steady at 68 percent.)

Another holiday survey in 2006 by Deloitte & Touche showed that consumers are buying more gift cards over the Holiday Season, 4.6 cards per person compared with 3.9 last year.

Fees Going Away

Sears had a five-year expiration date on its plastic gift card and Costco had a two-year date on its electronic gift cards; neither has an expiration date now.   Macy's and Bloomingdale's have two-year expiration dates, except in those states where such terms are not allowed. All of the other retailers have eliminated expiration dates.

Buy Online - Use Online

Of the seven electronic gift cards Bankrate surveyed, only the J.C. Penney card can be used to purchase merchandise in stores. All the others -- Wal-Mart, Costco, Target, Macy's, Bloomingdale's and Kohl's -- can be used only online or for catalog purchases.

The Target e-GiftCard can be used at Amazon.com as well. Delivery is via e-mail and all deliver within 24 hours. Only Target's e-GiftCard has an expiration date: 15 years from date of issuance, subject to state laws. None of these retailers charges other fees for their cards or for their use.

As the world of gift cards continues to grow, it will also continue to change, responding to consumer wishes and demands.

Article Source: Bankrate.com 2006 Gift Card Survey