What Apps Turn Gift Cards Into Cash?
Turn your unused gift cards into cash. Discover effective ways to liquidate unwanted balances using mobile apps, streamlining the process for quick payment.
Unwanted gift cards often accumulate, representing dormant value that could be more useful as cash. Mobile applications have emerged as practical tools for individuals to convert these unused gift cards into liquid funds. These platforms facilitate a streamlined process, allowing users to monetize gift cards they do not intend to use. The convenience offered by these apps makes accessing the value of gift cards a straightforward endeavor.
Preparing Your Gift Card for Sale
Before engaging with any conversion application, prepare your gift card by gathering all necessary details. This involves locating the card number, typically a 16-digit sequence, and any associated Personal Identification Number (PIN). The PIN, if present, is usually found under a scratch-off panel on the back of a physical card, and is essential for online transactions and verification.
Confirming the accurate balance on the gift card is also a necessary step. Most gift card issuers provide a toll-free number on the back of the card for balance inquiries, or direct users to their official website where the balance can be checked by entering the card number and security code. Note any expiration dates, as some gift cards may have validity limitations that could affect their resale value. These details are important for accurate listing and verification.
Identifying Apps for Gift Card Conversion
Several types of applications and platforms exist for converting gift cards into cash, each with distinct operational models. Some platforms function as direct buyers, purchasing your gift card outright and then reselling it to consumers. Examples include CardCash, GCBuying, and GiftCash, which offer immediate quotes. Other platforms operate as peer-to-peer marketplaces, allowing you to list your gift card for sale to other individuals and set your desired selling price. Raise and Gameflip are examples of peer-to-peer marketplaces.
When selecting an application, evaluate certain criteria for a favorable experience. Consider the range of accepted retailers, as some platforms specialize in specific brands while others support a wider array. Payout options are another consideration, with common methods including direct bank transfers, PayPal, or even cryptocurrency. Review user feedback and the platform’s reputation to assess reliability and customer service, and check the offered conversion rates. Some platforms, such as GCBuying, offer rate calculators to show the value you can expect for your gift card.
The Process of Selling Your Gift Card
Once a suitable application has been selected and your gift card details are ready, the selling process begins with creating an account on the chosen platform. This involves providing basic personal information and setting up secure login credentials. After account creation, navigate to a section for selling gift cards, where you will input the previously gathered details.
This step requires entering the gift card’s merchant, its exact balance, the card number, and any associated PIN or security code. The application will then generate an offer for your gift card, representing a percentage of its face value. If the offer is acceptable, confirm the sale. Depending on the platform and gift card type (physical or digital), you may need to physically mail the card, provide a digital code, or upload images for verification. This transfers the gift card details to complete the sale.
Receiving Your Payment
After the gift card sale is finalized, the next step involves receiving your payment. Available payment methods vary by platform but commonly include direct bank transfers (ACH), electronic payments via services like PayPal or Cash App, or sometimes a physical check. Some platforms may also offer cryptocurrency as a payout option.
The time to receive funds can differ significantly. While some services advertise instant payouts, particularly for digital methods like Cash App, others may involve processing times ranging from one to two business days. Certain transactions might take longer, with some platforms indicating a processing window of 5 to 10 business days, and occasionally up to 30 days, depending on the gift card type or retailer. Review the platform’s specific payment terms for expected processing durations and any potential verification steps that might delay payment.