What to Do With Unwanted Gift Cards

FcaHere are eight of them.

1. Sell them for cash

Rest assured, you're not the only person who has ever gotten a gift card from your least favorite store or a restaurant that just isn't your thing.

Sites such as Cardpool and Raise.com will help you sell your unwanted or even partially used gift cards for up to 92% of their value.

Or, list your card on eBay. The bigger the discount you're willing to give, the faster it's likely to sell.

This 2 Minute Move Could Knock $500/Year off Your Car Insurance in 2024

Saving money on car insurance with BestMoney is a simple way to reduce your expenses. You’ll often get the same, or even better, insurance for less than what you’re paying right now.

There’s no reason not to at least try this free service. Check out BestMoney today, and take a turn in the right direction.

Get Started

2. Trade them in

The sites that help you sell gift cards often will offer you an even better deal if you're willing to do a straight-up swap for a different card in their system.

Another option is to take your cast-off cards to Target. No matter how picky you are, you can probably find something you like at Tar-zhay, right?

Participating Target stores have kiosks where gift cards from dozens of other chains can be traded for a Target card.

3. Donate your gift cards

Charities often accept donated gift cards, even if part of the balance has been used. And, you might even get a tax deduction.

Many Goodwill locations welcome the gift cards you don't want. Or, go online to CharityChoice, a site that will help you turn your card into a cash donation to any of hundreds of charities.

You also might consider CardFunder, where you can start a group collection drive so your unloved gift cards can be combined with others to make a major donation for a needy cause.

Maximize Your Savings

Discover the best option for your financial future. Whether you’re looking for higher returns or easy access to your cash, compare the benefits of CDs and savings accounts to find the right fit for your goals.

Learn More

4. Use them to buy items to donate

Instead of giving a card directly to a charity, use it to buy gifts that a group can put to good use. This way, you can enjoy the fun of going shopping and feel the satisfaction of helping others.

Let's say you've received a gift card to a sporting goods store but haven't put on a pair of gym shorts since high school phys ed.

Find charities for kids in your area that would be thrilled to get a few new baseball bats or basketballs. Then, use the gift card to buy the items, and drop them off. Maybe you'll see a few young smiles when you do.

5. Regift them

When a gift makes the rounds on Seinfeld, Elaine points a finger at Tim Whatley (played by Bryan Cranston) and shouts "You're a regifter!" as if he had just committed a major crime.

But seriously, regifting isn't so bad — in fact, it's practical and efficient. A gift card that doesn't float your boat may be perfect for someone you know.

Just make certain you've found the right recipient. Otherwise, you could very well wind up with the card again through a neverending circle of regifting.

6. Use them to buy presents

If regifting the card seems too impersonal, then take it to the store and use it to buy something a giftee on your list is sure to like.

But don't leave the register without a gift receipt. If your family member or friend feels about the gift the way you do about the gift card, you'll want to make it easy for the recipient to exchange the present.

7. Get cash back

Gift cards that aren't for a specific business but instead are issued by one of the major credit card brands might be turned into cash right at your favorite store — but be warned that a few steps are required.

First, you need to assign the card a PIN number. Next you use the card to make a debit purchase. Then, you return the item, and ask for cash.

In a few states, you can request cash in exchange for a small balance left on a card. California requires merchants to return amounts under $10, if you ask. Other states allow you to receive $5 or less.

8. Give them to a charity auction

Does your kid's school ever ask parents to help gather donations for a fundraising auction?

Next time it happens, you'll be armed and ready to participate. Just donate the card for people to bid on — and hope that the auction attendees are more excited about the card than you were.