How to Create Gift Certificates

Gift certificates are given for various reasons. It could be to award the recipient with something, such as free or discounted services or products. Gift certificates are presented on paper and consist of a certified proclamation. They're often created by companies for their customers. You can use any of the popular Microsoft Office programs (Word, Publisher and Outlook) to make a gift certificate quickly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper Picture (optional) Printer

1. Select a suitable certificate template from Microsoft Office online. From the main template page, select Gift Certificates.

2. Choose a certificate that will work for your situation. Click on each option to see a larger view of the certificate.

3. Read over the information about your selection to verify that it is compatible with the version of MS Office you will be using.

4. Download the template. Accept the Microsoft Service Agreement to initiate the download.

5. Personalize the gift certificate. Click on any area of the template to alter it. Highlight the text and change the font size, style or color, if desired. Delete any sections or details not wanted.

6. Insert a logo or alternate image for your business. Add a graphic by selecting Picture from the Insert menu. Resize, recolor or change the image's appearance.

7. Fill in the name and any other information. You can type in some, or all of the details on the certificate. Another option is to fill it in by hand. If you do this, make sure to delete any text written by default on the certificate.

8. Print a test copy of the certificate. Check for any errors and make edits. Print the certificates as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• To narrow the templates offered in Microsoft Office, select Gift, then choose the specific program you will be using from the drop down list under Filter by Product. There are options for Word, Publisher and Outlook. Use high-quality paper or colored paper to make your gift certificates stand out. Save a copy of your gift certificate for easy future access.

Resources

• Microsoft Office Online: Certificate Templates