7 Places You Can Use AMEX Gift Card

American Express (AMEX) Gift Cards is an open loop gift card known for its versatility, with only Visa Gift Cards coming close. According to the American Express Merchant Reference Guide, AMEX gift cards can be used at merchants across various categories.

The AMEX gift card comes in physical and digital formats, and you can use it for online and in-person shopping. Depending on your budget, these gift cards can be loaded with values ranging from $25 to $3000. 

As open-loop cards, AMEX gift cards can be used almost anywhere that accepts American Express. In this guide, I will cover seven proven places where you can use your AMEX gift card.

7 Places Where AMEX Gift Card is Accepted

AMEX gift cards are accepted at different merchants and places, both online and physically. I’ve grouped these different places into categories. Here are seven places you can redeem your AMEX gift card for purchases or cash:

1. AMEX website 
2. Supermarkets
3. Hotels
4. Clothing stores
5. Restaurants and cafes
6. Network service providers
7. Gift card trading platforms

Now, let’s talk about these places one after the other. 

1. AMEX Website

AMEX gift cards are compatible with a broad range of businesses that operate within the American Express network. These include travel agencies, online shopping platforms, entertainment hubs, and more. You can use your gift card just like a regular AMEX card when making purchases or bookings directly through American Express partners.

In addition to physical locations, many online services that accept AMEX will also process payments made with AMEX gift cards. This makes the card a useful tool for buying other gift cards, booking experiences, or even managing personal expenses digitally.

2. Supermarkets 

AMEX gift cards are widely accepted at major grocery chains and retail stores across the country. From daily grocery runs to bulk shopping at outlets like Walmart, Target, and Costco, the card makes checkout quick and straightforward. It’s particularly handy for households that rely on flexible budgeting methods.

Beyond groceries, stores like Best Buy also accept AMEX gift cards, which makes it possible to buy electronics, home appliances, and tech accessories. This expands the card’s usefulness well beyond basic food items.

3. Hotels

Hotels that take American Express will generally accept AMEX gift cards for bookings or at check-in. The card is a reliable payment method for accommodation, either for an online room reservation or payment at the front desk.

Many hotels also allow you to use your AMEX gift card for additional charges like room service, parking, or in-hotel dining. It offers peace of mind if you’re traveling without a traditional credit card.

4. Clothing Stores

Retailers like Zara, H&M, Macy’s, and Nordstrom process American Express cards as well as AMEX gift cards without issue, both in-store and online. 

Since fashion purchases are often spread across different brands and stores, the open-loop feature of the card is a big advantage. You’re not tied to one outlet, which gives you more control over your style and spending.

5. Restaurants and Cafes

AMEX gift cards can be used at a wide range of food outlets, everything from fast-food spots like McDonald’s to specialty cafes like Starbucks. Payment is processed the same way as a regular AMEX card, which makes it ideal for grabbing coffee, lunch, or dinner.

Additionally, you can also use your gift card on food delivery apps like Uber Eats, as long as the platform accepts American Express. This is especially useful for at-home dining or sending meals to friends and family.  

6. Network Service Providers

Some telecom providers, such as Verizon, accept American Express for bill payments and data purchases. This makes AMEX gift cards a practical option for covering phone-related expenses without needing a traditional bank card.

Depending on the provider, you may also be able to use the card for add-ons like international calling, device upgrades, or home Wi-Fi plans. It’s a discreet way to manage monthly charges or prepaid services. Check with your specific provider to confirm that they accept AMEX.

7. Gift Card Trading Platforms

If you’d rather turn your AMEX gift card into cash, platforms like Nosh make it simple. You can sell the card and receive funds instantly, usually at a favorable rate. This is especially helpful if you need cash for something your gift card can’t directly cover.

Nosh allows withdrawals in local currencies such as Naira or Cedis, depending on your location. This is particularly useful in regions like Nigeria or Ghana where direct AMEX spending options are limited.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using AMEX Gift Cards

1. Can I use an AMEX gift card for online purchases?

Yes, you can use your AMEX gift card for online shopping, just like a regular credit card. Be sure to enter the card number, expiration date, and security code at checkout. Some websites may require you to register the card with a billing address beforehand.

2. Do AMEX gift cards work internationally?

No, AMEX gift cards are only valid for use within the United States and its territories. They cannot be used for international transactions or on websites that process payments outside the U.S.

3. Can I use my AMEX gift card at the gas station?

Yes, but some gas stations place a temporary hold for a higher amount at the pump. To avoid issues, it’s better to prepay inside with the cashier for a specific amount if you’re unsure of your balance.

4. What happens if the purchase amount is more than my AMEX gift card balance?

If your purchase exceeds the balance, ask the cashier to split the transaction. You can pay part of the total with your AMEX gift card and cover the rest with another payment method. Not all merchants allow split payments online.

5. Can I use my AMEX gift card to pay bills or subscriptions?

Some service providers, like Verizon, accept AMEX cards for one-time bill payments. However, most recurring subscriptions (like Netflix or Spotify) may not accept prepaid cards due to auto-renewal policies.

6. Can I withdraw cash using an AMEX gift card?

No. You can’t withdraw cash from ATMs or banks using an AMEX gift card. However, you can exchange the card for local currency on gift card trading platforms like Nosh.

7. How can I check the balance on my AMEX gift card?

You can check your card balance by visiting balance.amexgiftcard.com and entering your card number, expiration date, and security code.

Conclusion 

The AMEX gift card offers unmatched flexibility as an open-loop card. it’s accepted across various locations like supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, and gift card trading platforms.

Got an AMEX gift card you’d rather turn into cash? Nosh makes it simple. You’ll get fast payouts, fair rates, and a smooth, stress-free process from start to finish. Just sign up on Nosh, sell your card, and enjoy the convenience of cash in your account.