Because gift cards can be used like cash, you might wonder if you can buy them with credit cards. You may be in luck: Retailers usually allow it. But watch out for the possibility of declined transactions, and avoid cash advances when possible.
Yes, you can use a credit card to buy gift cards at most retailers. Occasionally, this won’t be allowed for a variety of possible reasons — for example, store-specific policies or a flagged transaction from your card issuer.
Buying gift cards with your credit card is usually coded as a purchase rather than a cash advance, though there may be exceptions.
While you’ll usually have no trouble using your credit card to buy gift cards, once in a while you may run into a few hiccups. Here are a few common instances to watch out for:
Some stores will ask that you show a matching ID when using a credit card to buy gift cards. By matching a name and face to the credit card, stores make it more difficult for people to use stolen cards for these transactions.
You could run into any number of responses at the checkout counter:
The easiest way around these roadblocks? Try a different store. If you’re feeling lucky, you could try the transaction again with another clerk at the same store.
In this case, the transaction will be halted, and you’ll need to verify on your mobile device that you initiated the purchase. If the notification comes quickly enough, you may be able to proceed with the transaction at the counter. Otherwise, you’ll need to cancel the purchase and try again after you’ve verified it with your issuer.
One way to get around this limitation is by carrying a backup card. This card might not offer the rewards you were hoping for, but it may save you from having to try the transaction again.
A store might not accept credit cards for gift-card purchases. However, you’ll likely have no issue if you pay for gift cards with cash, check or debit card.
The answer is usually not. Buying a gift card with a credit card is usually considered a purchase. However, this transaction could be coded as a cash advance in certain instances, such as when:
If you’re worried about cash advances, call your card issuer and try these strategies:
Earn rewards on gift card purchases with your credit card. One of the best strategies is to use a grocery credit card at an eligible grocery store. Specific store cards may also offer excellent rewards.
And if you love the variety of new bonus categories, rotating-cashback cards may give you a few optimal months each year to buy gift cards. None of these card types work for you? Consider a trusty flat-rate cashback card that offers solid rewards on all purchases, including gift cards.
The Citi® Double Cash Card is a market-leading choice.
Before applying for a credit card or using one for a gift-card purchase, read the fine print. Check if the credit card offers bonus rewards on gift cards as some providers specifically block bonus rewards on these purchases.
Issuers typically consider gift cards to be legitimate purchases, but tread lightly if you’re dipping your toes into manufactured spending. This means buying things with your credit card that can be quickly converted to cash — such as gift cards.
Those engaging in manufactured spending may buy gift cards regularly in significant quantities. It’s this volume that typically raises flags with card issuers and leads to account shutdowns.
Ultimately, if you’re buying gift cards for manufactured spending, your issuer may eventually catch on and close your account. But if you buy gift cards here and there — particularly if you plan on giving them as presents or using them yourself — you’re probably fine.
Though policies may vary by store and card issuer, you can usually use a credit card to buy gift cards. Avoid having your gift-card purchases classified as cash advances, and be careful with manufactured spending.
Why are cash advances not recommended?
For each cash advance, you’ll pay a fee — typically $10 or 5% of the transaction. You’ll also usually pay a higher interest rate.
What fees come with buying gift cards?
Closed-loop gift cards usually don’t come with extra fees. But if you buy a prepaid gift card, such as a Visa Gift Card, you’ll usually pay a fee of around $3 to $5.
Credit cards like Firstcard, Capital One Quicksilver, Blue Cash Everyday and Fizz don’t require a social security number to open.
The best credit cards for young adults are cards with low or no credit score requirements, low or no interest and rewards to go around.
Plus, how many credit cards should you have?
Americans are forecast to spend $983.3 million on Thanksgiving turkeys in 2024.
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Secured cards like the Cleo Credit Builder can have limits as high as $25,000, but you’ll need a deposit to match.
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