WASHINGTON — How would you like to check that last-minute gift off your list without battling the shopping crowds or spending any money?
That perfect gift could already be in your home. Regifting is taking a not-so-perfect gift that you’ve received, and giving it to someone else.
Once upon a time, regifting was considered a huge no-no. Even if you’d never use the gift, you were supposed to cherish it. But times have changed.
An American Express survey shows 75 percent of people think regifting is acceptable these days, and last year the average person regifted four items.
But before you start pulling out things you don’t want and putting name tags on them, there are rules to follow when regifting, according to CNN.
- Regift in different social circles. If it’s something you got from a co-worker, don’t give it away in the work exchange. Likewise, if you got it from a friend, make sure not to give it to someone in that same social group, or you could get caught.
- Triple-check before you give it away. Sometimes, gift-givers will tuck a card or note inside the present. Make sure to check and recheck that there’s nothing personal attached to or inside the gift packaging.
- Don’t regift just to get rid of something. If you are going to regift, choose something you think suits the person you are giving it to or is something they would really want.
- Don’t regift old and used items — except if the present is an antique or family heirloom.
- Don’t regift handmade or sentimental presents. Chances are, the person who gave it to you will ask to see it at some point, and it will be hard to explain why you no longer have it.
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