What is the first thing a cashier should do when processing a gift card?

When processing a gift card, the first step a cashier should take is to verify the gift card balance and validity. This is crucial because it ensures that the gift card is active and has an available balance for the customer to use. Verifying the balance also helps to prevent any inconvenience for both the cashier and the customer at the point of sale.

Additionally, confirming the validity of the gift card can help identify any issues, such as if it has expired or been deactivated. This approach not only enhances the customer experience by ensuring smooth transactions but also minimizes potential errors during the checkout process. The other steps, such as asking for a PIN or activating the card, can only be taken after confirming that the gift card is valid and has a sufficient balance.