A comprehensive guide to verifying the available balance on your gift cards through various methods. Know exactly what you have to spend before you shop.
There are several reliable methods to check your gift card balance. This guide explains each approach so you can choose what works best for you.
To check your balance online, you'll need:
These details are typically found on the back of your gift card. The PIN may be hidden under a scratch-off surface.
Go to the official website of the retailer who issued your gift card. Most retailers have a dedicated "Gift Cards" or "Check Balance" section.
Look for links labeled "Check Gift Card Balance," "Manage Gift Card," or similar. These are often found in the site's footer or in account/customer service sections.
Enter your gift card number and PIN/security code if required. Double-check the numbers to ensure accuracy.
Click the submit button to verify your card. Your current balance should appear on screen, sometimes alongside transaction history.
When checking your balance online, always ensure you're on the official retailer website by verifying the URL. Legitimate sites use secure HTTPS connections. Never share your gift card details on unsecured websites or with unknown parties.
Many retailers offer mobile apps that allow you to scan your gift card's barcode or QR code to check its balance. This method is convenient when you have the physical card with you.
Visit your device's app store and download the official mobile app for the retailer whose gift card you want to check.
Open the app and look for "Gift Cards," "Wallet," or "Payment Methods" in the menu. Some apps may have a direct "Check Balance" option.
Look for a "Scan Gift Card" or similar option, which will activate your device's camera.
Position your card so that the barcode or QR code is clearly visible to your device's camera. Hold steady until the scan completes.
After a successful scan, the app will display your current gift card balance and sometimes transaction history.
For best scanning results:
Note: Scanning features require a device with a camera and may not be available for all retailers. If scanning doesn't work, try the online method instead.
Call the customer service number printed on the back of your gift card. Follow the automated prompts or speak with a representative to check your balance. Have your card number and PIN ready.
Visit any physical store location of the retailer and ask a cashier or customer service representative to check your gift card balance. You'll need to present the physical card.
If you've recently used your gift card, your current balance may be printed at the bottom of your receipt. Keep your receipts for easy reference.
Make it a habit to check your gift card balances regularly, especially before shopping at that retailer, to avoid the surprise of insufficient funds at checkout.
Take photos of both sides of your gift cards (with security codes covered) and store them securely. Note the balance after each use for your records.
While many gift cards don't expire, some may have fees that reduce the balance over time if unused. Check the terms printed on your card or the retailer's website.
Many retailers allow you to add gift cards to digital wallet apps, making it easier to track balances and use your cards without carrying physical plastic.
Yes, when using official retailer websites. Major retailers use secure encryption to protect your information. For additional security, always verify you're on the official website (check the URL begins with "https://") and never share your gift card details on unsecured or suspicious websites.
Typically, you'll need the gift card number and PIN (if your card has one). The card number is usually a 16-19 digit number found on the front or back of your gift card. The PIN is often hidden under a scratch-off surface on the back of the card. Some retailers may require additional verification information.
Several factors can affect your gift card balance. Recent purchases may take time to process fully in the retailer's system. Some gift cards have activation fees or dormancy fees that reduce the balance over time if the card isn't used. Additionally, if you've made a partial purchase with the card, the remaining balance might not update immediately across all systems.
In many cases, yes. While the physical card may have an expiration date, the funds on the card often don't expire due to consumer protection laws in many states. If your card shows as expired, you might still be able to use the balance or request a replacement card from the retailer. Laws regarding gift card expiration vary by location, but many regions now prohibit gift cards from expiring or significantly limit the ability of retailers to set short expiration periods.
If you're having trouble checking your balance online, try these alternatives: 1) Call the customer service number on the back of your card, 2) Visit the retailer's physical store location and ask a representative for assistance, 3) Try a different web browser or clear your cache if you're experiencing technical issues, or 4) Contact the retailer's customer support via email or chat for help.