Unlock the Power of Gift Cards

Your comprehensive resource for everything gift cards - from purchasing and selling to security tips and balance management.

Explore Gift Cards

Why Choose Gift Cards?

Gift cards represent over $200 billion in annual sales in the US alone, offering unparalleled flexibility, convenience, and budgeting control for both givers and recipients.

Perfect for Gifting

Give the gift of choice with cards that let recipients select exactly what they want.

Budget Control

Set spending limits and track expenses more effectively with prepaid gift cards.

Security & Protection

Safer than cash with fraud protection and the ability to freeze or replace lost cards.

Popular Gift Card Retailers

Explore gift cards from top retailers offering diverse shopping experiences and flexible spending options.

Visa

Visa Gift Cards

Universal acceptance worldwide, perfect for any purchase.

Usage: Anywhere Visa is accepted

Denominations: $25 - $500

Availability: Global

Features: Reloadable, customizable

Target

Target

Everything from groceries to electronics at competitive prices.

Usage: In-store and online

Denominations: $10 - $500

Availability: US only

Features: RedCard benefits eligible

Amazon

Millions of products with fast delivery options.

Usage: Amazon.com and subsidiaries

Denominations: $1 - $2,000

Availability: Multiple countries

Features: Instant delivery, no expiration

Walmart

Walmart

Everyday low prices on groceries, electronics, and more.

Usage: In-store, online, and gas stations

Denominations: $5 - $1,000

Availability: US, Canada, Mexico

Features: No fees, never expires

Best Buy

Best Buy

Technology and electronics from top brands.

Usage: In-store and bestbuy.com

Denominations: $15 - $500

Availability: US and Canada

Features: No expiration, Geek Squad eligible

Nike

Nike

Athletic wear, shoes, and sports equipment.

Usage: Nike stores and nike.com

Denominations: $25 - $500

Availability: Global (varies by region)

Features: Nike membership benefits

Sephora

Sephora

Beauty products, makeup, and skincare from premium brands.

Usage: In-store and sephora.com

Denominations: $10 - $500

Availability: US, Canada, and select countries

Features: Beauty Insider points eligible

Mastercard

Mastercard

Prepaid cards accepted wherever Mastercard is honored.

Usage: Worldwide acceptance

Denominations: $25 - $500

Availability: Global

Features: Chip technology, online registration

Buy & Sell Gift Cards

Discover how to purchase gift cards at discounted rates or convert unused cards into cash through trusted platforms.

Buying Gift Cards

Benefits of Buying

  • Save 10-25% off retail value on discounted gift cards
  • Instant e-delivery for immediate use
  • Fraud protection and money-back guarantees
  • Wide selection from hundreds of retailers

Trusted Platforms

Gift Card Granny

Pros: Price comparison, verified sellers, mobile app

Cons: Limited inventory on popular cards

Raise

Pros: Large marketplace, buyer protection, instant delivery

Cons: Higher fees for premium features

Cardpool

Pros: Bulk discounts, corporate programs

Cons: Fewer small denomination options

Selling Gift Cards

How It Works

  • 1 Enter gift card details (brand, amount, card number)
  • 2 Receive instant quote (typically 80-95% of value)
  • 3 Card verification and balance confirmation
  • 4 Get paid via PayPal, ACH, or check (1-3 business days)

Security Measures

  • SSL encryption for all transactions
  • Identity verification for high-value cards
  • Real-time balance verification
  • Fraud detection algorithms
Important Note

Payout rates vary by retailer popularity and demand. Popular brands like Amazon typically offer 90-95% while specialty retailers may be 75-85%.

Check Gift Card Balance

Stay informed about your gift card balances with our comprehensive guide and direct links to major retailers.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Locate Card Information

Find the 16-digit card number (usually on the front) and security code or PIN (often on the back or under a scratch-off panel).

2

Visit Official Website

Always use the retailer's official website or customer service phone number. Avoid third-party balance check sites.

3

Enter Required Details

Input the card number and security code as prompted. Some sites may require additional verification.

4

Review Balance & History

Check your current balance and recent transaction history if available. Note any expiration dates or fees.

Security Warning

Never enter gift card details on suspicious websites or respond to phishing emails requesting card information. Legitimate retailers will never ask for gift card numbers via email.

Direct Balance Check Links

Target

Check your Target GiftCard balance

Walmart

Check your Walmart Gift Card balance

Amazon

Check your Amazon Gift Card balance

Visa Gift Cards

Check your Visa Gift Card balance

Mastercard Gift Cards

Check your Mastercard Gift Card balance
Pro Tip

Register your gift cards online when possible to protect against loss or theft and receive balance alerts via email or SMS.

Gift Card Best Practices

Maximize value and protect yourself with expert tips on gift card security, usage strategies, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Security Best Practices

  • Register Cards Online

    Create accounts with retailers to protect against loss and track transactions.

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication

    Add extra security layers to online accounts when available.

  • Keep Receipts & Records

    Save purchase receipts and card activation confirmations for disputes.

  • Never Share Card Details

    Avoid sharing card numbers via email, text, or unsecured platforms.

  • Monitor Balances Regularly

    Check balances monthly to detect unauthorized usage early.

  • Use Secure Networks

    Only access gift card accounts on trusted Wi-Fi networks.

Maximize Value

  • Combine Multiple Cards

    Use multiple gift cards in single transactions for larger purchases.

  • Shop During Sales

    Maximize purchasing power by using cards during promotional periods.

  • Understand Dormancy Fees

    Some cards charge monthly fees after 12+ months of inactivity.

  • Check Expiration Policies

    US law requires 5-year minimum validity, but fees may apply earlier.

  • Use Partial Balances

    Don't let small balances go unused - combine with cash for purchases.

  • Join Loyalty Programs

    Earn points or rewards when using gift cards with store programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my gift card is lost or stolen?

If registered, most retailers can replace lost cards with proof of purchase. Unregistered cards typically cannot be replaced, making registration crucial for protection.

Can gift cards expire?

Federal law requires gift cards to be valid for at least 5 years from purchase or last reload. However, dormancy fees may apply after 12 months of inactivity in some states.

Are there fees associated with gift cards?

Most retailers don't charge purchase fees, but activation fees ($0.00-$5.95) are common for general-purpose cards like Visa and Mastercard. Monthly maintenance fees may apply after extended inactivity.

Can I return items purchased with gift cards?

Yes, but refunds typically go back to the original gift card or a new card. Some retailers may offer cash refunds for amounts under $10 as required by state laws.

What's the difference between physical and e-gift cards?

E-gift cards are delivered electronically and can be used immediately online. Physical cards can be used in-store and online but may take longer to receive and activate.

How do I avoid gift card scams?

Only buy from authorized retailers, never pay taxes or fees with gift cards, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Legitimate businesses never demand gift card payments.

Stay Updated

Get the latest gift card deals, security tips, and retailer updates delivered to your inbox.

No spam, unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.