What Types of Gift Cards Does Amazon Accept?
Uncover which gift cards are accepted on Amazon and how to apply them to your purchases. Get clear guidance on payment options.
Using gift cards on Amazon provides a convenient way to pay for purchases. Understanding which types of gift cards are accepted can streamline your shopping experience on the platform. This guide will clarify which gift cards you can use and how to apply them to your Amazon account.
Amazon Branded Gift Cards
Amazon’s own branded gift cards are fully accepted for purchases across the Amazon.com website. These gift cards are widely available and can be purchased directly from Amazon’s official website, as physical cards, e-gift cards, and print-at-home versions. You can also find them at numerous retail stores, including major pharmacies, grocery stores, and electronics retailers.
Redeeming an Amazon gift card adds its value to your Amazon account balance. To do this, locate the claim code on the back of a physical card, often found under a scratch-off strip, or within the email for an e-gift card. You then navigate to the “Redeem a Gift Card” section on Amazon’s website or app, enter the code, and select “Apply to your balance.” The amount is added to your gift card balance for future purchases. You can check your Amazon gift card balance within your account settings.
Other Types of Gift Cards
Beyond Amazon’s own cards, general-purpose gift cards issued by major credit card networks, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are generally accepted on Amazon. These cards function similarly to standard credit or debit cards. To use one, add it as a new credit or debit card in your Amazon payment settings, entering the card number, expiration date, and security code. It is advisable to register these general-purpose gift cards with the issuer online. Ensure the purchase total, including taxes and shipping, does not exceed the card’s balance, as Amazon may not allow splitting payments with another card for a single order.
In contrast, gift cards issued by other specific retailers or brands, like Target, Starbucks, or Best Buy, are not accepted on Amazon. These store-specific gift cards are only redeemable at their issuing merchant’s physical locations or online stores. For instance, a gift card from a clothing store cannot be used to buy items on Amazon. This distinction is important, as Amazon processes payments based on the network (Visa, Mastercard) rather than the specific merchant named on the card, unless it is an Amazon-branded card.