Michigan prohibits expiration dates of less than five years and restricts post-sale dormancy fees. The state generally aligns with federal CARD Act protections with some additional consumer protections.
Federal context
Under the federal Credit CARD Act of 2009 and its implementing Regulation E (12 CFR 1005.20), gift certificates and most general-use and store gift cards sold in the United States must remain valid for at least five years from the date of issuance or last load. Federal law also restricts dormancy, inactivity, and service fees: a fee can generally be charged only if the card has been inactive for at least 12 months, the fee is disclosed, and no more than one fee is charged per month. State laws may add stronger consumer protections on top of this federal floor.
For a deeper federal explainer, see our CARD Act overview.
Expiration rules in Michigan
Michigan generally aligns with the federal five-year minimum on gift certificate expiration, with consumer protection enforcement under the Michigan Consumer Protection Act.
Dormancy and service fees in Michigan
Post-sale fees are restricted under Michigan consumer protection rules. Most Michigan merchants avoid these fees.
Cash redemption for small balances
No state-mandated requirement.
Disclosure requirements
Federal Regulation E and Michigan Consumer Protection Act standards apply.
Unclaimed property and escheatment
Michigan's unclaimed property statute may apply with single-merchant exemptions.
Enforcement and penalties
The Michigan Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division enforces state rules.
Recent updates
No material state-level changes in the last 24 months.
Last reviewed: May 24, 2026. Statutes change. Verify the current text of the cited statute before acting on this summary.
Michigan compliance checklist
A short operational checklist for selling gift certificates in Michigan. Adapt with counsel before publishing your final policy.
- Set expiration to five years or none.
- Avoid post-sale fees.
- Disclose terms on the certificate.
Frequently asked questions about Michigan gift card law
Can a Detroit restaurant charge a dormancy fee after one year?
Generally no. Federal and state rules permit dormancy fees only after 12 months of inactivity with extensive disclosure, and Michigan further restricts the practice.
Related legal basics
- Do Gift Certificates Expire? — A practical overview of federal and state rules on gift certificate expiration, written in plain English.