TurboTax's Refund Bonus Program is a hassle

I filed my taxes late this year(finished then 4/15/06) and I decided to get some gift cards through Turbo Tax's Refund Bonus program. You order some gift cards at a discount - typically 10% off the face value of the card plus a shipping fee of $15-20. Today I got the 5 gift cards I had ordered via FedEx. I ordered 2 Bed Bath and Beyond gift cards worth $25 each, 1 Starbucks card worth $25, and 2 American Express cards worth $200 each. I was super excited since it meant I could get my friend's wedding gift before visiting her this weekend in New York. The American Express gift cards are only valid at certain stores, but that includes some stores that my friends commonly register at (e.g. Crate and Barrel). I decided to check the balance of my gift card before driving down to Crate and Barrel. Good thing I did since my cards have a balance of $0!!! I'm glad that I didn't waste my time and the gas driving to the mall (I do have some other things to do in the area, but they're not urgent).

Apparently they haven't been activated yet and it will take 3-5 business days to resolve the issue. I was extremely frustrated and disappointed. Since taking on my new job, I am lacking in patience since my time at home is so limited.

Thumbs down to Amex and Turbo Tax for this snafu. I also checked the balances on my other gift cards and they are what they should be.