What to Do with Unused Gift Cards

When you're not sure what to get someone, a gift card can seem like the perfect solution. But if you’re like many gift card recipients, these cards often end up forgotten in a drawer. In fact, nearly half of Americans—43 percent, to be exact—have unused gift cards, worth an average of about $244 per person in unspent money, according to a recent Bankrate survey.

Whether it’s a gift card to a store you don’t shop at or just a pile of extras collecting dust, here are some simple ways to put those unused gift cards to good use.

Regift unused gift cards

First, consider regifting them for special occasions such as holidays, birthdays, or milestone occasions. You could also give one to someone just because; it might be exactly what they need to brighten their day.

Before regifting a gift card, make sure to check the balance and any expiration dates. And, of course, avoid giving it back to the person who originally gifted it to you.

Sell unused gift cards online

If you’re not planning to use your gift cards or give them to someone else, selling them on a gift card resale website is a great way to recover some of their value and get money for unused gift cards.

Here are a few trusted websites where you can sell or trade your gift cards:

• CardCash buys gift cards for set amounts, rather than letting you choose a price. For example, you might get up to $342 for a $400 Walmart gift card—or you could trade it for a discounted gift card, such as $350.55 to Amazon. Payments are made via direct deposit, check, or PayPal. You can also mail your eligible physical gift cards. The site is easy to use and gives instant offers.
• GiftCash is similar to CardCash in that it sets a payout amount for your gift cards. It suggests you can sell unused gift cards for cash payouts of up to 92 percent of the card’s value. For example, a $400 Target gift card might net you $332. Payments are straightforward, making it a solid option for turning unused cards into cash.
• Gameflip is an online gaming marketplace that lets you set your own price for gaming gift cards as well as a curated list of non-gaming gift cards. To sell your unused cards quickly, Gameflip recommends setting the price between 70 and 95 percent of the card value. After your card sells and is delivered, you’ll get the proceeds in your Gameflip wallet, minus a 10 percent fee. Digital gift cards might incur an additional 2 percent fee. You can transfer funds to your bank through options such as Bitcoin Wallet, Payoneer, or Skrill.
• GCX, owned by Raise Marketplace, suggests competitive prices to help you sell your unused US gift cards quickly. Once your card sells, you’re paid via PayPal or direct deposit, minus a 15 percent fee.

Donate unused gift cards to charity

Another option is to donate your unused gift cards to those in need. Many local food banks accept unused gift cards, and nonprofit organizations such as Gift Card Bank collect unused gift cards to help those struggling financially. Its recipients can have a traditional shopping experience to pay for essentials—such as groceries, gas, diapers, and infant formula—based on their unique needs. It's a meaningful way to make a difference with the gift cards you no longer need.

Be cautious when selling gift cards online

Be aware that not all websites that buy gift cards are trustworthy. For example, using peer-to-peer selling platforms such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace may seem easy, but they can carry significant risks when you sell gift cards online. These sites are often associated with high rates of fraud, so they’re usually not the safest choice.

A little research can go a long way in avoiding gift card scams. Here are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself.

• Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints about the website you’re considering.
• Perform a quick Google search with the website’s name and the word “scam” to identify any warnings or red flags.
• Make sure the website has a working customer service number. If it’s disconnected or always goes to voicemail, be cautious.
• The Retail Gift Card Association offers a list of tips for consumers to follow.

Instead of letting unwanted gift cards collect dust, there are plenty of ways to make good use of them. From selling them online to donating them to charity or giving them to a friend, there are simple ways to ensure they don’t go to waste.