So I just went through a stack of old gift cards hoping to uncover a font of forgotten plastic wealth. Of the roughly 10 cards I checked the balances on, four came back winners, totaling about $70 in untapped purchasing power. That’s right Loews. I didn’t forget about that $32.99 I still had on a card from Christmas of 2002!

Most of the gift cards made it easy to check the balance; either call a number or go online. But the one for Powell’s bookstore steered me wrong. Here’s the wording on the back of the card:

For balance inquiry, call 1-800-xxx-xxxx, visit powells.com or inquire at any store register.

So, I figured I’d just check it out online. However, here’s their website message regarding checking balances:

To check the balance of your Powell’s Card, give us a call toll free at 866-xxx-xxxx.

WTF? Why’d you say I could find out online if I really needed to call? Shaking fist at Powell’s!