Can I Use Other Gift Cards on Amazon?

Gift cards are a popular payment method for online shopping, and many consumers wonder if they can use various types on Amazon. This article explains which kinds of gift cards Amazon accepts and outlines the processes for using them.

Understanding Accepted Gift Card Types

Amazon primarily accepts its own branded gift cards. Users can redeem these Amazon.com Gift Cards directly into their Amazon account balance. This stored value is applied to eligible purchases on the platform and automatically used for future orders until depleted.

Beyond Amazon’s proprietary cards, the platform widely accepts gift cards issued by major credit card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. These credit card-branded gift cards operate much like regular debit or credit cards. To use them on Amazon, add them as a standard credit or debit card payment method. Ensure the gift card has sufficient balance to cover the purchase, including sales tax, as exceeding the card’s value can lead to a declined transaction. Some cards may require prior registration with the issuer, often involving associating a billing address for online use.

Steps for Using Your Gift Cards on Amazon

Using an Amazon.com Gift Card involves a straightforward redemption process. Locate the claim code found on the physical card or in the digital gift card email. Log into your Amazon account, navigate to the “Gift Cards” section, and select “Redeem a Gift Card” or “Apply a Gift Card to Your Account.” Entering the claim code and selecting “Apply to your balance” adds the gift card’s value to your Amazon account, making it available for immediate use. This balance then automatically applies to your orders during checkout.

Credit card-branded gift cards are treated like standard payment cards. During Amazon checkout, choose to “Add a credit or debit card.” Enter the gift card’s 16-digit card number, expiration date, and security code (CVV). If the gift card’s balance does not cover the entire purchase, Amazon allows combining it with another payment method, such as a personal credit or debit card, to complete the transaction. This helps utilize the full value of the gift card.

Gift Card Types Not Accepted

Amazon does not accept gift cards from other specific retailers, often called closed-loop gift cards. These cards, such as those from department stores or restaurant chains, are restricted for use only at the issuing merchant’s locations or online platforms. Their payment systems are not integrated with Amazon’s, making direct acceptance impossible. While third-party retailer gift cards are sold on Amazon, they are distinct from using a retailer’s own gift card as payment directly on Amazon.

The platform also has limitations on using Amazon gift card balances to purchase other gift cards. This policy aims to prevent practices like gift card flipping or potential money laundering schemes. Certain prepaid cards that are not part of a major credit card network may also be declined, as they lack the universal acceptance mechanisms of Visa, Mastercard, or American Express branded cards.