How to Use a Gift Card Online and In-Store

Gift cards have become a popular form of payment and a convenient gift choice. They offer recipients flexibility, allowing them to select items they desire from a specific retailer or across a wider network. These prepaid cards function as a form of currency, simplifying transactions for both the giver and the recipient. Their widespread acceptance makes them a versatile tool for various purchasing needs.

Preparing Your Gift Card for Use

Before making a purchase, ensure your gift card is ready for use. Checking the balance is a crucial first step, typically done by visiting the retailer’s or issuer’s website, calling a toll-free number on the card, or inquiring at a customer service desk. Knowing the exact amount available helps prevent transaction issues at checkout.

Many gift cards require activation before use. Some activate automatically at purchase by the cashier. Other cards may require manual activation by the recipient, often involving visiting a specific website or calling a toll-free number provided on the card or its packaging. Digital gift cards frequently require recipient activation.

Understanding usage restrictions is an important preparatory step. Gift cards can be “closed-loop,” valid only at a specific retailer, or “open-loop,” like Visa or Mastercard, usable wherever that brand is accepted. Reviewing the card’s terms and conditions or the issuer’s website provides details on where the card can be used, including online or in-store validity and any product exclusions.

Redeeming Your Gift Card

Once your gift card is activated and you know its balance and where it can be used, the redemption process is straightforward. For in-store purchases, present the physical card to the cashier, who will swipe it, scan a barcode, or manually enter the card number. For general-use gift cards, you might select “credit” or “debit” on the payment terminal and, if prompted, enter a PIN. Some digital gift cards can be added to mobile wallets for contactless payment.

For online purchases, enter the gift card details during checkout. This includes the card number, an expiration date (if applicable), and a security code (CVV or PIN). These details are entered into the payment section, often in fields designated for credit or debit card information, unless a specific “gift card” field is indicated.

Many retailers allow for partial payments when a gift card’s balance does not cover the entire purchase. If your purchase exceeds the card’s value, use the card for the available balance and pay the remainder with another form of payment, such as a credit card, debit card, or cash. If the purchase is less than the card’s value, the unused balance remains for future use. Informing the cashier of your intention to split the payment is often helpful.

Handling Common Gift Card Situations

If a gift card is lost or stolen, immediate action can sometimes help recover funds. It is advisable to contact the gift card issuer or retailer as soon as possible. Providing the card number, any purchase receipts, or other identifying information can be crucial for a potential replacement. While recovery depends on issuer policies, some companies may cancel the original card and issue a new one, especially if registered or with proof of purchase.

If a gift card doesn’t work at checkout, common reasons include improper activation, insufficient funds, or the merchant not accepting that specific type of prepaid card. Double-checking the card number and PIN for typos, ensuring the balance covers the transaction (including any pre-authorization holds for certain merchants like gas stations or restaurants), and confirming activation status can help resolve issues. If problems persist, contact the issuer’s customer service.

It is important to review the terms and conditions associated with your gift card, as these contain important details about its use. Federal law mandates that gift cards cannot expire in less than five years from the date of activation. Additionally, dormancy or inactivity fees cannot be charged unless the card has been unused for at least one year, and such fees must be clearly disclosed. These disclosures ensure transparency regarding any potential fees that could reduce the card’s value over time.