Google has sent out an email to all its Wallet users informing them that support for NFC redemption of gift and loyalty cards will end on August 21, 2013. So, if you have a balance remaining on your gift cards (stored within Wallet), you will need to spend it using the tap-to-pay functionality before the cut off date.

The search engine giant assured users that all other Google Wallet features will remain intact, including NFC tap-to-pay. The email also claims that “other options for gift and loyalty card redemption within Google Wallet” will be shared with us “soon.”

Google’s email can be read below:

Thanks you for being a Google Wallet user.

You’re receiving this email because you’ve added gift and/or loyalty card to your Google Wallet app, and there’s a change coming soon that will affect you.

On August 21, 2013, we are ending the current NFC redemption of gift and loyalty cards added to Google Wallet. If you’ve already redeemed your gift cards, you don’t have to do anything. If you have a balance remaining and you’d like to spend it using the tap and pay functionality, you must do so by August 21st. If you still have the physical gift cards, they will continue to work even after August 21st.

Please note that this does not impact NFC credit and debit card payments, and you’ll still be able to tap your phone to make purchases.

We’re working with retailers on other options for gift and loyalty card redemption within Google Wallet, and are excited to share them with you soon.

If you have any questions, feel free to email or call us.

Sincerely,
The Google Wallet Team.

If you’re a Google Wallet user with a remaining balance on gift cards, be sure to spend it before August 21, 2013.