Can I Use a Gift Card on Amazon?

Gift cards offer flexible payment options for online shopping. On platforms like Amazon, understanding which types of gift cards can be used for purchases can simplify the shopping experience.

Types of Gift Cards Amazon Accepts

Amazon directly accepts its own branded gift cards, which are the most straightforward option for purchases. These cards are designed for use within the Amazon ecosystem and are redeemed by adding their value to your Amazon account balance. Once applied, the funds become part of your available balance, ready for future transactions.

General-purpose gift cards, such as those issued by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, can also be used on Amazon. These cards function similarly to standard credit or debit cards, allowing them to be entered as a payment method during checkout. It is often necessary to register these cards with the issuing bank, linking them to a name and billing address, to ensure successful online transactions. In contrast, gift cards issued by other retailers, like Target or Walmart, cannot be used directly on Amazon.

Applying Amazon Gift Cards to Your Account

Redeeming an Amazon-branded gift card to your account is a simple process that makes the balance available for purchases. Locate the claim code on your physical or digital gift card; this is usually a 14- or 15-character code. Log into your Amazon account on the website or mobile app.

On the Amazon website, navigate to the “Account & Lists” menu, then select “Account” and proceed to the “Gift Cards” section. You will find an option to “Redeem a Gift Card” or “Apply a Gift Card to Your Balance.” Enter the claim code into the designated field and confirm. For mobile app users, tap the profile icon, then go to “Account” and select “Manage gift card balance” under the “Payments” section, where you can choose “Redeem Gift Card” and enter the code. Once redeemed, the gift card’s value is added to your Amazon account balance, which will automatically be applied to your next eligible purchase.

Using General Purpose Gift Cards for Purchases

Using a general-purpose gift card from networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express on Amazon involves treating it as a standard credit or debit card during checkout. Add the card as a new payment method by entering the card number, expiration date, and the security code (CVV). It is important that the card is registered with the issuing bank, typically with your name and billing address, to prevent transaction declines.

A significant consideration when using these cards is Amazon’s policy regarding split payments. Amazon does not allow combining a general-purpose gift card with another payment method for a single purchase. The gift card’s balance must be sufficient to cover the entire order, including taxes and shipping, or the transaction may be declined.

To avoid issues, check the gift card’s balance before attempting a purchase. Alternatively, some users opt to use their general-purpose gift card to purchase an Amazon e-gift card, transferring the balance into their Amazon account for more flexible use.