How To Add Gift Cards to Apple Wallet: Step-by-Step Guide

I love little things that make your life easier, e.g., a wallet. Having your cash, cards, and other small important documents in one place makes things convenient. Now, imagine not having to carry a physical wallet around, even better, right? For Apple users, this is where Apple Wallet comes in.

Apple Wallet is a digital wallet that allows you to store various cards, such as credit and debit cards, boarding passes, tickets, and even gift cards, all in one place on your iPhone or Apple Watch. It makes payments and access to your cards simple and convenient.

In this guide, I will walk you through how to add gift cards to your Apple Wallet, so you can easily manage and use them when needed. But before going into that, let’s talk about Apple Wallet compatibility check. 

How To Check Gift Card and Device Compatibility with Apple Wallet 

Before you add a gift voucher to your Wallet app, it’s important to check if both your device and the card are compatible with it. Here’s how you can check:

1. Device compatibility: Start by making sure your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch supports Apple Wallet. To check, visit Apple’s official website and look for your device model in the supported devices list. Additionally, ensure your device is running on a compatible iOS version.
2. iOS version: Next, verify that your iPhone is using the latest iOS version. Go to your device’s settings, tap “General,” and then tap “About.” Under “Software Version,” you’ll see which iOS version your device is running. If it is the latest version, you’re good to go. If not, you need to update your software.
3. Gift card compatibility: Now, check if your card can be added to the Wallet. Look at the card or its packaging for any mention of Apple Wallet compatibility. If there’s no information on that, you can use a third-party app or website that checks for compatibility. As of now, Apple allows gift cards from major card providers like Visa, MasterCard and American Express to be added to Wallet directly. 

How to Add a Gift Card to Apple Wallet

Adding a gift card to your Wallet app is simple and convenient. Once you are sure your gift card and device are compatible, follow the steps below:

1. Open the Apple Wallet app on your iPhone or iPad. It’s pre-installed on most iOS devices.
2. Tap the “+” icon at the top right corner of the screen. 
3. Select the option to add a gift card from the options displayed. 
4. Scan your gift card or enter its details.
5. After capturing or entering the card details, the Wallet app will verify the information and add the gift card to your collection.  

Note: Some gift card providers may have specific instructions or apps for adding their cards to Apple Wallet.

For example, you can add gift cards directly from a brand’s app, like Starbucks, to Apple Wallet by selecting the “Add to Wallet” option in the Starbucks app. Also, each gift card needs to be added individually.

Managing and Using Gift Cards in Apple Wallet

After adding your gift cards to your Wallet app, managing and using them is easy. You can quickly find any card by browsing through the categories or simply typing the card’s name in the search bar.

To view past transactions or card details, tap on the specific gift card in your Wallet. You’ll see transaction history, card digits, and notification settings under “Card Details.”

When it’s time to redeem or use a gift card for payment, open your Wallet and select the card. At checkout, let the cashier scan the barcode or, if needed, manually enter the card’s number to complete the transaction. For online purchases, select Apple Pay from the checkout options. 

Benefits of Adding Gift Cards to Apple Wallet

Using Apple Wallet to store your gift cards offers several advantages:

1. Security: It uses strong encryption to keep your gift cards safe. The app leverages robust security features to protect all your cards, ensuring they are secure against theft or unauthorized use.
2. Versatility: The wallet supports a wide variety of digital passes, from payment cards and boarding passes to even car keys. This versatility makes it a tool for managing not just gift cards, but many other types of digital cards.
3. Convenient access: With Apple Wallet, all your digital passes are in one place. You don’t need multiple apps to manage different cards or tickets. Just open the app, and you’ll have everything at your fingertips.
4. No charges: Unlike some other apps that charge subscription fees for certain features, Apple Wallet is free to use. You get all the benefits of a digital wallet without any hidden costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adding Gift Cards to Apple Wallet

1. Can I put gift cards in my Apple Wallet?

Yes, you can add compatible gift cards to your Wallet for easy access and use.

2. Can I add any gift card to Apple Wallet?

Not all gift cards are supported. You can add only gift vouchers that are compatible with Apple Wallet. 

3. Can I add Apple gift card to Apple Wallet?

No, you cannot directly add an Apple gift card to your Wallet, however, you can redeem the Apple gift card on your Apple account. 

4. How do I redeem a gift card from Apple Wallet?

Open the Wallet app, select the gift card you want to redeem, and let the store attendant scan the barcode, or manually enter the card details.

5. How can I remove a gift card from Apple Wallet?

Open your Wallet, tap the gift card you want to remove and select the option to remove the card. 

Conclusion 

Apple Wallet offers a convenient way to store and manage your gift cards alongside other digital passes like credit cards, tickets, and boarding passes. By adding your gift cards to your Wallet, you can easily access and use them when needed, whether in-store or online. With its strong security, versatility, and simple interface, Apple Wallet makes handling your cards more efficient. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can add compatible gift cards to your Wallet, and enjoy seamless, secure payments in one place.