I keep trying to remember to load for $499, but I load for $500 out of habit, then drain $499. I usually drain that last $1 next time I buy anything at SCO (Another gift card, some groceries, I don't care) by using the "Split Payment" button. I also have good luck draining the last dollar at grocery stores and elsewhere. Just run it, most grocery stores "auto drain" it, meaning the systems sees it can only charge $1 to the card and does so automatically. Then you have to swipe another. Some places it doesn't auto-drain, the card just gets declined. Then you have to ask "Can you split the transaction please, I've got a buck left on this silly gift card and want to use it". They cashier will oblige.