Simple Ways to Check the Balance and Validity of a Gift Card

Quick answer

• Most gift cards have a toll-free number on the back to check your balance.
• You can often check your balance online via the card issuer’s website.
• Keep your receipt; it often contains the initial balance and activation date.
• Be aware of expiration dates and dormancy fees, which can reduce your balance.
• If a card seems invalid, contact the retailer or gift card issuer directly.
• Treat gift cards like cash; store them safely and use them before they expire.

Who this is for

• Anyone who has received a gift card and wants to know its current value.
• Individuals who have unused gift cards and are unsure if they are still valid.
• Shoppers who want to use a gift card for a purchase but need to confirm its balance.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Goal and Timeline

What do you want to do with the gift card? Are you planning to use it for a specific purchase soon, or do you want to know its exact value for future budgeting? Knowing your goal will help you decide how thoroughly you need to check. For instance, if you plan to spend it all at once today, a quick balance check might suffice. If you’re trying to track its value as part of your savings, you’ll want to be more precise.

Current Cash Flow

While not directly related to the gift card itself, understanding your current financial situation can influence how you prioritize using gift cards. If you’re in a tight spot, using a gift card for essentials might be more pressing than if you have ample discretionary income. This context helps you decide if a gift card is a welcome bonus to your budget or a necessary tool to make ends meet.

Emergency Fund or Safety Buffer

A healthy emergency fund means you’re less reliant on gift cards for unexpected expenses. If your emergency fund is robust, you can treat gift cards purely as bonus spending money. If not, consider using gift cards for necessities to free up your cash for savings.

Debt and Interest Rates

If you have high-interest debt, it might be more financially beneficial to use the gift card to pay down that debt rather than making a purchase. For example, if you have credit card debt with a 20% APR, using a $50 gift card to reduce that balance is effectively earning you a 20% return. Always prioritize paying down high-interest debt before using gift cards for non-essential items.

Credit Impact

Using a gift card does not directly impact your credit score. However, the way you use it can indirectly influence your credit. For example, if you use a gift card to pay off a significant portion of a credit card balance, this could positively affect your credit utilization ratio. Conversely, if you overspend on non-essentials using a gift card and then can’t cover your other bills, it could lead to late payments and damage your credit.

Step-by-step (simple workflow)

1. Locate the gift card: Find the physical gift card you wish to check.

• What “good” looks like: The card is in your possession and legible.
• Common mistake: Misplacing the card. Avoid this by storing gift cards in a dedicated wallet or envelope immediately after receiving them.

2. Examine the card for contact information: Look for a toll-free customer service number, a website address, or a barcode on the back of the card.

• What “good” looks like: You can clearly see a phone number or website.
• Common mistake: The print is too small or worn off. If this happens, you may need to rely on other methods or contact the original retailer.

3. Check for an expiration date or dormancy clause: Some cards have these, though many do not, especially those issued by major retailers.

• What “good” looks like: The card has no expiration date or a very distant one, and no mention of dormancy fees.
• Common mistake: Assuming all cards are good forever. Always check for these clauses, as they can diminish your card’s value over time.

4. Visit the issuer’s website: If a website is provided, navigate to it using a web browser.

• What “good” looks like: You find a “Check Balance” or “Gift Card Services” section.
• Common mistake: Landing on a general retail site instead of the specific gift card portal. Look for sections dedicated to gift cards.

5. Enter card details online: You’ll typically need to enter the gift card number and a PIN or security code, often found on the back.

• What “good” looks like: The website accurately displays your card’s current balance.
• Common mistake: Entering incorrect numbers. Double-check each digit and symbol.

6. Call the toll-free number: If a phone number is present, dial it.

• What “good” looks like: You reach an automated system or a customer service representative who can tell you the balance.
• Common mistake: Getting stuck in a lengthy automated menu. Have your card number and PIN ready to expedite the process.

7. Listen to the automated prompts: Follow the instructions to check your balance. You’ll likely need to input your card number and PIN.

• What “good” looks like: The system clearly states your available balance.
• Common mistake: Not understanding the prompts. Pause and listen carefully before selecting options.

8. Review your original receipt: If you still have it, the initial purchase receipt often shows the activation date and the original balance.

• What “good” looks like: The receipt is clear and matches the card you have.
• Common mistake: Losing the receipt. This is why keeping it is important, especially for tracking.

9. Contact the retailer directly: If online or phone methods fail, or if the card is from a small business, call the store or company that issued the card.

• What “good” looks like: A representative can assist you in verifying the card’s status.
• Common mistake: Calling the wrong department. Ask for the customer service or gift card department.

10. Note the balance and expiry: Once confirmed, jot down the current balance and any expiration date in a safe place, like a budgeting app or a note on your phone.

• What “good” looks like: You have a clear record of the card’s value and when it needs to be used.
• Common mistake: Forgetting about the card again. Proactive tracking prevents cards from going unused.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not checking for expiration dates	The card’s balance may become $0 after a certain date, rendering it useless.	Always look for an expiration date. If one exists, make a plan to use the card before it expires.
Ignoring dormancy fees	The card’s balance can be reduced over time if it remains inactive for a specified period, as per the terms and conditions.	Check the card’s terms for dormancy clauses. Use the card periodically, even for a small purchase, to keep it active.
Losing the gift card	The value on the card is lost permanently, similar to losing cash.	Store gift cards in a safe, designated place. Consider taking a photo of the card and its number, and storing it securely.
Not checking the balance before shopping	You might assume there’s more balance than there is, leading to embarrassment or needing to use another payment method at checkout.	Always check the balance before heading to the store or completing an online purchase.
Assuming all gift cards are interchangeable	Trying to use a store-specific gift card at a different retailer will not work.	Understand that most gift cards are only valid at the specific retailer or group of retailers listed on the card.
Not keeping the original receipt	The receipt can be helpful for tracking the initial balance and purchase date, which might be needed if issues arise with the card.	Keep the receipt with the gift card until its balance is fully used or confirmed.
Not verifying the card’s validity	Attempting to use a card that has already been fully spent or deactivated will lead to a failed transaction.	Use the methods described to confirm the card’s balance and active status before attempting to use it.
Forgetting about small balances	Small remaining balances can be forgotten and never used, effectively losing that money.	Keep a running list of gift cards and their balances. Combine small balances onto one card if possible or use them for small, impulse purchases.
Not understanding the PIN/security code	If you don’t know where or how to find the PIN (often under a scratch-off area), you won’t be able to check the balance online.	Carefully examine the back of the card for a PIN or security code. If it’s scratched off or missing, contact the issuer.
Relying solely on memory	It’s easy to forget about gift cards received months or even years ago, especially if they have smaller balances.	Use a digital tool or physical ledger to track all your gift cards, their balances, and any expiration dates.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If the gift card has an expiration date within the next three months, then prioritize using it for an upcoming purchase because it’s better to use the funds before they expire.
• If the gift card has a dormancy fee, then use it for a small, immediate purchase to keep it active because dormancy fees can slowly deplete its value.
• If the gift card is from a retailer where you frequently shop, then check its balance and consider it as part of your regular budget because it functions like store credit.
• If the gift card balance is less than $5, then use it for a small treat or necessity as soon as possible because it’s unlikely to cover a significant purchase and might be forgotten.
• If you have high-interest debt (like credit cards), then consider using the gift card to pay down that debt because the interest saved is often a better return than any purchase you’d make.
• If the gift card is for a large amount and you don’t have an immediate need, then store it safely with other important documents and set a calendar reminder for six months out to check its balance again because you don’t want to forget about significant funds.
• If the gift card issuer provides an app or online portal, then bookmark it for future reference because it makes checking the balance quick and easy.
• If you cannot find any contact information or the provided methods don’t work, then contact the original retailer or the store where the gift card was purchased because they may be able to assist you.
• If the gift card is from a brand you dislike or rarely use, then consider selling it on a reputable gift card exchange website or gifting it to someone who will use it because it maximizes its value by putting it in the hands of someone who wants it.
• If the gift card is for a specific event (e.g., a birthday), then try to use it around that time to associate the gift with the occasion because it adds a personal touch.
• If the gift card is for a significant amount and you are planning a large purchase, then check the balance multiple times to ensure accuracy before making the purchase because you want to be certain of the available funds.

FAQ

How do I check the balance of a Visa or Mastercard gift card?

Visa and Mastercard gift cards usually have a toll-free number on the back. Call this number and follow the prompts, or visit the website listed on the card. You’ll typically need the card number and the security code.

Can I check a gift card balance in-store?

Yes, most retailers allow you to check your gift card balance at the customer service desk or at a checkout register. Simply hand the card to the cashier or associate.

What if the gift card number doesn’t work online?

If the gift card number or PIN is not recognized online, try calling the customer service number on the back of the card. There might be a processing delay after activation, or the number might have been entered incorrectly.

Are all gift cards valid forever?

No, not all gift cards are valid forever. Some may have expiration dates, while others may be subject to dormancy fees if not used for a certain period. Always check the terms and conditions on the card or its packaging.

What should I do if my gift card balance is lower than I expected?

First, double-check your transaction history if possible. If you still believe there’s an error, contact the gift card issuer or the retailer directly with your original receipt and card details.

Is it safe to enter my gift card information online?

Only enter your gift card information on the official website provided by the gift card issuer or the retailer. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or entering details on unofficial sites.

Can I get cash for an unused gift card?

In most states, you cannot demand cash for a gift card. However, some states have laws requiring retailers to redeem gift cards for cash if the remaining balance is below a certain small amount. You can also sell unwanted gift cards on reputable secondary market websites.

What is a dormancy fee?

A dormancy fee is a charge that may be deducted from a gift card’s balance if the card is not used for a specified period, usually 12 months or more. This is often outlined in the card’s terms and conditions.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Selling unwanted gift cards: Information on reputable platforms for selling gift cards for cash.
• Gift card scams: How to identify and avoid fraudulent gift card offers or requests.
• State-specific gift card laws: Detailed regulations regarding expiration dates and escheatment laws in your particular state.
• Using gift cards for online purchases: Specifics on how to apply gift card balances during e-commerce checkouts.
• Combining multiple gift cards: Strategies for consolidating balances if you have several cards from the same retailer.