CINCINNATI -- Gift cards are everywhere and most people acknowledge they're convenient. But that convenience could cost you in penalties, hidden fees and expiration dates.

Consumer experts are urging consumers to read the fine print on the cards -- the rules and restrictions -- before handing them out as gifts.

"We put it in the drawer and we forget. It might sit there for six months, but it's always nice when you find it," said Wanda Bevington, a gift card shopper.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Get In The Holiday Spirit Best, Worst Toys Of 2004 Spending Tips Toy-Buying Tips Buying Online Will You Spend More?

Bevington is not alone. The retail council estimates that 12 percent of gift card recipients will never redeem their cards.

For those who do finally use the card, many will find it will be worth less than the original value, WLWT-TV in Cincinnati reported.

Some cards expire after 12 or 24 months, and others lose value over time.

When you're shopping for gift cards, here's what to look for:

• Hidden charges that include a monthly charge or a fee for not using the card.
• An expiration date. Some gift cards are no longer valid after a certain period of time.
• Whether stores replace lost or stolen gift cards whether you have your receipt or not.

Despite the hidden pitfalls associated with many gift cards, many Americans are using them to fill the blanks on their holiday shopping lists.

A study done by BIGResearch for the National Retail Federation estimated that 11.5 percent of holiday budgets will go toward gift cards, and that the average consumer will buy more than $80 worth of the plastic presents.

At the same time, consumer trends watcher Britt Beemer of America's Research Group said he sees the enthusiasm for gift cards cooling somewhat.

He said his firm found that last year at this time, more people were talking about giving gift cards.

Now, about 38 percent of consumers say they plan to purchase the cards, compared with 48.6 percent a year ago.