American Express (AMEX) is widely known for its credit and charge cards, but it also offers gift cards. The AMEX gift card comes in physical and digital formats, and you...
Gift cards are prepaid cards that contain a certain amount of money. You can use these gift cards to pay for items or services at the store/brand that issued them. Also, there are open-loop gift cards issued by payment processors like Visa and Mastercard which you can use basically anywhere.Â
Since I’ve been learning and writing about gift cards, there’s a question I ponder every now and then. The question is if it is possible to buy gift cards with a gift card. If that question is on my mind, I believe a good number of gift card users would have thought about it too.Â
If you’re reading this, you’re most likely here to get an answer to that same question. The good news is I’ve done my research and I’m here to answer that and other additional questions you may have. Let’s get into it.Â
Can I Use a Gift Card to Buy a Gift Card?
The short answer to this question is it depends. You can use a gift card to buy another gift card, but it largely depends on the store’s policy. Some stores and retailers allow you to use their store-branded gift cards to purchase other gift cards, while others do not. Also, some stores allow you to use open-loop gift cards to buy their store gift cards, while others do not.
To avoid any issues, it’s a good idea to check the store’s policy online or ask a cashier before attempting to use a gift voucher to buy another one.
Gift Cards You Can Use to Buy Other Gift Cards
Open-loop gift cards are more flexible and can be used to buy other gift cards. For example, Visa, Mastercard and American Express gift cards work like debit cards and can be used almost anywhere, including stores that sell gift cards. This means you can use them to buy gift vouchers from various retailers.Â
However, there might be stores that don’t allow customers to use any type of gift card, including open-loop gift cards, to buy their store-branded gift cards. Policies may change over time, so it’s best to make inquiries and confirm before making a purchase.Â
Why You Might Want to Buy Gift Cards with Another Gift Card
Purchasing gift cards with another gift voucher can be a convenient option in some situations. For example, if you receive a gift card from a store you don’t frequently visit, you might prefer to use it to get a gift card from a store you shop at regularly. This way, you can get more out of the gift card you received.
Another reason is to consolidate your gift cards. If you have several small-value gift vouchers you find hard to use, buying a single gift voucher with those can make managing your money simpler. It can also be a great way to keep track of your balance and make your spending more organized.
Additionally, using a gift card to purchase another gift card can be helpful when you want to give the card as a gift. For instance, if you have a Visa or Mastercard gift card, you can use it to purchase a gift card from a specific retailer you know the recipient prefers.
Overall, while not all stores allow this, it can be a practical solution when you want to maximize the value of your gift cards or simplify your spending.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Gift Cards with a Gift CardÂ
1. Can gift cards buy other gift cards?
Yes, some gift cards can be used to purchase others, but it depends on the store’s policy. For example, you may be able to use open-loop gift cards to purchase other store-branded gift cards.Â
2. Can you trade a Walmart gift card for another gift card?
Yes, you can trade an unused Walmart gift card for another gift card at gift card kiosks. These kiosks allow you to exchange a particular gift card for a different one that you might find more useful. Also, you can trade your gift card for money on Nosh and use the funds to purchase your preferred card.
3. Can a Target gift card buy another gift card?
No, a Target gift card cannot be used to purchase another gift voucher. Target’s store policy prohibits using their gift cards for the purchase of other gift cards.
4. Can I use a Walmart gift card to buy another gift card?
No, you cannot use a Walmart gift card to get another gift card. Walmart’s policy does not allow customers to use their gift cards to purchase other gift vouchers.Â
ConclusionÂ
While the possibility of getting gift cards with another gift card depends on store policies, it’s clear that it can be a useful and practical option.Â
Whether you’re looking to consolidate small balances, switch to a more useful gift card, or give the perfect gift, understanding these nuances can help you make the most out of your gift cards. Always check store policies or ask an employee to ensure a smooth transaction.