How long can I redeem the voucher?

"An open-ended voucher must be redeemed within three years. Otherwise the entitlement expires and the retailer no longer has to accept the voucher. If the retailer goes bankrupt within the three years, there is also no entitlement. Neither to goods nor to a replacement."

Can I simply have the value of the gift voucher paid out?

"No, a gift voucher can generally only be exchanged for goods. If you can't do anything with it, it's best to give it to someone else: gift vouchers are not personal, even if they have a name on them."

What about the residual value of gift vouchers?

"Have you received a voucher worth 20 euros, but only spend 18 euros? Many stores will pay out the remaining 2 euros - but you are not legally entitled to this."

What if the specified service is no longer available?

"If, for example, the voucher applies to a product that the company no longer stocks when you want to redeem the voucher, the retailer is obliged to pay out the exact value of the promised service to the customer in cash."

What information should be on a gift voucher?

"The place of redemption, i.e. the name and signature of the store. Then the value of the voucher in euros as well as any restrictions on certain goods or services and the date of issue. The issuer can also specify a limited period of validity."

What rules apply when it comes to services?

"In some cases, the issuer of the voucher can insist that only the recipient - and not a third party - uses the service. For example, if a parachute jump was given as a gift, for which certain medical conditions are necessary."

What should I look out for with online gift vouchers?

"It's very important to always read the small print, which contains information on the right of withdrawal, when you have to redeem the voucher and exchange conditions."