There are a few different ways you can check the balance on your gift card. The easiest way is to look on the gift card itself – most will have a toll-free number printed on the back that you can call to check the balance. You may also be able to check online if you have the gift card number. Here are some tips for checking gift card balances:
Check the Gift Card
The first place to check is on the physical gift card itself. Turn the card over and look for a toll-free customer service number to call. When you call, you can provide the gift card number and PIN (if required) to get the current balance. Some retailers also print the gift card balance right on the card, so always start by looking at the gift card.
Check Online
Many major retailers allow you to check your balance online. Go to the merchant’s website and look for a Gift Card or eGift Card section. You’ll need to provide the gift card number and access code or PIN. From there, you can see the available balance. Here are some retailers that allow online balance checks:
| Retailer | Website |
|---|---|
| Amazon | www.amazon.com/gc/balance |
| Starbucks | www.starbucks.com/card/check-balance |
| Walmart | www.walmart.com/account/giftcards |
| Target | www.target.com/redcard/balance |
Check at the Store
If the retailer has a physical location, you can also check the balance at the store. Take the gift card to the customer service desk or cash register. The store associate can scan the card or enter the number to look up the balance for you. This works well if you received a plastic gift card (rather than an eGift card) and don’t know the balance offhand.
Check Your Credit Card Statement
If you used a credit card to purchase the gift card, you may be able to find the initial value on your credit card statement. Look back through your monthly statements to find the retailer name and transaction amount. This can give you an idea of what the original balance was. Keep in mind it doesn’t show what has been spent down already.
Tips for Keeping Track of Your Balance
Here are some helpful tips for monitoring your gift card balance:
Save Your Receipts
When you purchase a gift card in a store, save the receipt. It will show the gift card’s initial loaded value. Hang onto the receipts for future reference.
Note the Initial Balance
As soon as you receive a new gift card, write down the full dollar amount somewhere safe like your wallet or phone notepad. That way you’ll always know what you started with.
Register the Card
Take a minute to register gift cards on the retailer’s website. This usually allows you to easily log in and check the balance online at any time.
Sign Up for Alerts
Many retailers let you sign up for low balance email or text alerts. You’ll get a notification when the balance drops below a threshold, such as $10.
Use One Card at a Time
To avoid confusion, try to use up one gift card before moving onto the next. Don’t juggle multiple cards with small balances.
What to Do with a Zero Balance
Once you’ve spent down the balance on a gift card, here’s what to do next:
Hang On to Major Retailer Cards
Gift cards from major national retailers can be reloaded online or in stores. Keep these even with a zero balance in case you want to add funds later.
Re-gift Small Balances
If the card has a small balance below $5 or $10, consider regifting it to someone else. Tell them how much is left on the card.
Trade In to Redeem Balance
Some websites let you trade in gift cards with less than $5 on them for cash. You typically get a percentage of the remaining balance.
Recycle the Card
Once empty, gift cards are just plastic. Many stores now have gift card recycling bins to dispose of used cards responsibly.
Troubleshooting Balance Issues
If you can’t seem to get an accurate balance or are having issues checking, try these troubleshooting tips:
Call the Toll-Free Number
The customer service number on the back of the card is always the best place to start. Explain the issue and ask the agent to confirm the balance.
Check Transaction History
If the gift card company provides access to your transaction history online, look for recent purchases. Make sure the balance reflects these.
Look for Expiration Dates
Some gift cards expire over time or charge inactivity fees. This can lower the balance without you using the card.
Watch for Fraudulent Use
Unfortunately, sometimes gift cards can become compromised by scammers. Review your purchase history for any unknown transactions.
Request a New Card
If you think the card number may have been stolen, ask the retailer to issue a new card and transfer over the balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common gift card balance questions:
Why does my gift card balance change unexpectedly?
If the balance seems lower than it should be, the issue could be expiration policies, inactivity fees, or fraudulent use. Always check for fine print exclusions on the card.
Can I get a refund on unused gift card funds?
Most retailers do not allow you to redeem gift card balances for cash. Some states require gift card cash redemption but have various restrictions.
What happens if I lose my gift card?
Report lost or stolen gift cards immediately to the retailer. You may be able to get a replacement card with the remaining balance transferred over.
Are there any fees associated with checking my balance?
Fortunately, there are typically no fees to check your gift card balance by phone, online, or in stores. Avoid any third-party balance check sites that charge a fee.
Can I consolidate multiple cards into one?
Some retailers allow you to combine two or more gift cards into a single card for easier tracking. Check with customer service to see if they offer this option.
Conclusion
Keeping track of gift card balances is easy with the right tools. Start by looking on the physical card for a phone number to call or checking online if the retailer allows it. When in doubt, bringing the card to the store guest service desk can provide a printout with the current balance. Setting up alerts, saving receipts, and registering cards can prevent future balance confusion. With a few simple tracking methods, you can stay on top of gift card balances and get the most out of your gift card funds.
