It’s always a warning we hear at holiday time, but given the economy, it is even more worth considering: Use those holiday gift cards soon.

An estimated $24.9 billion was spent on gift cards this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. You were probably part of that statistic.

While many people like to hold on to gift cards for something special to buy, that’s a bad idea. You’re much more likely to get the full benefits if you use a card as quickly as possible. Here are the reasons why:

1) Stores Go Bankrupt

2) Gift Cards Get Lost

3) Gift Card Fees and Expirations

The story linked above gives the details, but it is worth remembering, as most of us have old cards just lying around in our dressers and desks.