Specialized online marketplaces have become the most popular option for selling unwanted gift cards, offering convenience and competitive rates.
Dedicated exchange platforms – Websites specifically focus on gift card transactions. These platforms typically offer two options:
- Direct selling to the platform
- Listing your card for sale to other users
Exchange rates vary significantly based on the retailer’s popularity, with cards from high-demand merchants typically fetching 80-90% of face value, while less popular retailers might only return 60-70%. Before listing a card, you’ll need to check the giftcardmall balance or verify the card’s value through the appropriate retailer’s website. Most platforms require balance verification to protect buyers and maintain marketplace integrity.
General marketplaces – Platforms also support gift card sales, though they typically involve more risk for buyers and sellers. While potentially offering higher returns by eliminating the middleman, these platforms provide fewer protections specific to gift card transactions.
Physical exchange locations
Physical exchange options provide convenient alternatives for those who prefer immediate cash without shipping cards or waiting for online payments.
- Gift card kiosks – Companies operate self-service kiosks in grocery stores and shopping centres where you can instantly sell gift cards. While offering immediate payment, these typically provide lower exchange rates than online options, often returning 60-75% of the card’s value.
- Pawn shops and check-cashing stores – Many local pawn shops and check-cashing businesses purchase gift cards. However, rates vary widely between locations and are less competitive than specialized exchanges. These businesses frequently offer only 50-60% of face value but provide the advantage of immediate cash without shipping or digital payment complications.
Peer-to-peer sales
Direct sales to friends, family members, or local buyers often yield the highest returns when exchanging gift cards for cash.
- Personal networks – Before using formal exchange services, consider whether anyone in your social or professional circles might be interested in purchasing your card. Selling gift cards at stores where people shop regularly for 90-95% of face value makes sense.
- Local classified ads – While potentially offering better rates than commercial exchanges, these transactions carry higher risk and should include appropriate safety precautions for in-person exchanges.
Important considerations
When selling gift cards for cash, several factors can significantly impact your experience and return rate:
- Verify balances before selling – Always check giftcardmall balance or the appropriate retailer’s balance verification system before listing a card for sale. Accurately representing card values helps ensure smooth transactions and maintain account security on exchange platforms.
- Compare multiple options – Exchange rates vary significantly between platforms and fluctuate based on market demand. Checking rates across several services before committing to a sale often yields substantially better returns.
- Consider partial sales – Some platforms allow selling a portion of a gift card’s balance. If you use part of the value yourself, this option preserves some for personal use while converting the remainder to cash.
- Watch for fees – Many exchange services charge processing fees or offer lower rates for specific payment methods. Understanding the complete fee structure helps avoid surprises when finalizing transactions.
- Beware of scams – The gift card resale market attracts numerous scammers. Stick to reputable platforms with buyer/seller protections and avoid deals that seem suspiciously generous, particularly on general classifieds sites.
By understanding the available options and following best practices for gift card exchanges, you convert unwanted cards into cash at reasonable rates, turning potentially wasted value into usable funds for your needs and preferences.