Gift cards are a popular present, but they don’t always hit the mark. Maybe you received a card for a store you rarely visit, a restaurant that’s not your taste, or a service you don’t need. Instead of letting those gift cards gather dust in a drawer, you can turn them into something useful, valuable, or even meaningful. Here are five smart options for dealing with unwanted gift cards, helping you make the most of them while avoiding waste.
1. Sell Your Gift Cards for Cash
One of the most straightforward ways to handle an unwanted gift card is to sell it for cash. Several online platforms specialize in buying and selling gift cards, offering you a way to convert that unused balance into money you can spend anywhere. Websites like CardCash, Raise, and GiftCardGranny allow you to sell gift cards at a discounted rate, typically receiving 70-90% of the card’s value, depending on the retailer and demand.
To sell a gift card, you’ll usually need to provide the card’s number and PIN (if applicable) or mail the physical card to the platform. Some sites offer instant digital payments, while others may send a check or deposit funds via PayPal. Before selling, compare offers across multiple platforms to get the best deal, and check the site’s reputation to ensure a secure transaction. This option is ideal if you want quick cash to use for something you actually need or want.
2. Trade for a Gift Card You’ll Use
If cash isn’t your goal, consider trading your unwanted gift card for one you’re more likely to use. Many of the same platforms that buy gift cards, such as CardCash and Raise, also offer trading options. You can exchange your card for one from a different retailer, like Amazon, Target, or a grocery store chain, which offers more flexibility for everyday purchases.
Some platforms even allow direct swaps with other users, letting you trade a $50 card for a coffee shop you don’t visit for a $50 card to a bookstore you love. Be sure to check the exchange rates, as you may receive slightly less value than the original card. Trading is a great way to transform an unwanted card into something that aligns with your lifestyle, whether it’s for dining, entertainment, or online shopping.
3. Use It to Buy Gifts for Others
An unwanted gift card can become a thoughtful gift for someone else. If the card is for a retailer or restaurant that doesn’t suit you but matches someone else’s tastes, consider using it to purchase a gift for a friend, family member, or colleague. For example, a gift card to a clothing store you don’t shop at could be used to buy a birthday present for a fashion-forward friend. A restaurant gift card could treat a loved one to a meal they’d enjoy.
Alternatively, you can use the gift card to buy items to donate. Many retailers sell essentials like toiletries, clothing, or non-perishable food that can be donated to local shelters, food banks, or community organizations. This approach not only puts the card to good use but also spreads kindness, turning an unwanted gift into a meaningful gesture.
4. Regift or Donate to Charity
Regifting gets a bad rap, but when done thoughtfully, it’s a practical way to repurpose an unwanted gift card. If you know someone who loves the retailer or service tied to the card, pass it along as a gift for a special occasion. Just make sure the card hasn’t been used and is still valid, and present it in a way that feels intentional, like pairing it with a small handwritten note.
Donating the gift card to a charity is another excellent option. Many nonprofits accept gift cards to purchase supplies, fund events, or provide resources for those they serve. For example, a gift card to a grocery store can help a food bank stock its shelves, while a card to a department store can assist a shelter in providing clothing or bedding. Contact local charities or check their websites to see if they accept gift card donations. Some organizations, like GiftCardGiver, specialize in collecting unused gift cards for charitable causes. This option is perfect for those who want to give back to their community.
5. Use It for Experiences or Subscriptions
Instead of letting the gift card go to waste, think creatively about how you can use it to fund experiences or subscriptions that enhance your life. For example, a gift card to a movie theater chain could cover a fun date night or a family outing. A card for a retailer like Amazon could be used to subscribe to a streaming service, audiobook platform, or even a digital magazine that aligns with your interests.
If the gift card is for a specific store, explore their online offerings. Many retailers sell more than just physical products, some offer digital downloads, gift subscriptions, or even experiences like workshops or classes. For instance, a gift card to a craft store could be used to sign up for an online art class, or a card to a bookstore could cover an e-book or audiobook. By thinking outside the box, you can turn an unwanted card into an opportunity to try something new or indulge in a small luxury.
Tips for Managing Unwanted Gift Cards
➠ To make the most of these options, keep a few practical tips in mind:
- Check the Balance and Expiration Date: Before selling, trading, or using a gift card, verify its balance and ensure it hasn’t expired. Most retailers allow you to check balances online or by calling customer service. Some cards may also have dormancy fees that reduce the balance over time, so act sooner rather than later.
- Combine Cards for Greater Value: If you have multiple small-value gift cards, consider combining them on platforms like Amazon, which allows you to apply multiple gift cards to a single account. This can make it easier to use the funds for a larger purchase.
- Protect Against Fraud: When selling or trading online, use reputable platforms and avoid sharing sensitive information with unverified buyers. For physical cards, treat them like cash and store them securely.
- Plan Ahead for Gifting: If you’re regifting or donating, present the card thoughtfully to avoid it feeling like an afterthought. A small card or gift bag can make a big difference.
Conclusion
Unwanted gift cards don’t have to be a burden. By selling them for cash, trading for a card you’ll use, buying gifts for others, donating to charity, or using them for experiences, you can transform something you don’t need into something valuable or meaningful. Each option offers a way to maximize the card’s potential while aligning with your goals, whether that’s financial flexibility, spreading kindness, or enjoying new experiences. The next time you receive a gift card that doesn’t spark joy, try one of these smart strategies to make it work for you.