How to Use an E-Gift Card Online and In-Store

An e-gift card is a digital equivalent of a traditional gift card, providing a convenient way to convey monetary value for future purchases. These digital instruments are commonly delivered via email or text messages, offering a streamlined way to give and receive credit for goods and services. Their digital nature simplifies distribution and accessibility, making them a flexible option.

Accessing Your E-Gift Card

Upon receiving an e-gift card, locate its details. E-gift cards are often delivered to an email inbox; check primary, spam, or junk folders. Merchants may also send them via SMS or make them available in their mobile apps or on their websites. Identify the e-gift card number, any required Personal Identification Number (PIN), and security codes for redemption.

Retain the original delivery message (email or text) or capture a screenshot of the e-gift card details for future reference. This ensures the card’s information remains readily available. If delivery is missed or details are deleted, most merchants offer a retrieval process through customer service or an online portal, requiring the original recipient’s email address or phone number.

Using Your E-Gift Card Online

Redeeming an e-gift card online occurs during the digital checkout process. After selecting items and proceeding to payment, locate a field for gift cards or promotional codes. This field prompts for the e-gift card number and any associated PIN. Entering these details accurately applies the card’s balance to the transaction.

After entering the card information, the system applies the available balance, reducing the total purchase amount. If the e-gift card’s balance is insufficient to cover the entire cost, the remaining balance needs to be paid using an alternative method, such as a credit or debit card. The online platform guides the user through combining payment methods to complete the transaction.

Using Your E-Gift Card In-Store

For in-store redemption, present the e-gift card information in a scannable or readable format at the point of sale. Many merchants allow customers to display a barcode or the e-gift card number from their mobile device for scanning. Alternatively, print the e-gift card email or details for a physical copy. Some retail applications and mobile wallet services, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, may store and present e-gift card information digitally if supported by the merchant’s system.

At the checkout counter, the cashier will scan the barcode from your mobile device or printed copy, or manually enter the e-gift card number and PIN. If the e-gift card is integrated into a mobile wallet, the process might involve a digital “swipe” or tap on a compatible reader. The transaction concludes with the e-gift card’s balance applied, and any remaining balance settled through another accepted payment method.

Managing Your E-Gift Card

Manage your e-gift card by monitoring its balance and understanding its terms. Most merchants provide a section on their website or a balance checker where you can input your e-gift card number and PIN to view the balance. Alternatively, contact customer service with the card details for a balance inquiry.

Review the terms and conditions for each e-gift card. These outline details like expiration dates, usage restrictions, or if the card is non-reloadable. While federal regulations protect consumers from gift cards expiring too quickly, some terms may still apply. If an e-gift card appears non-functional during a transaction, double-check the entered details for accuracy and contact customer service with the full card information for resolution.