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Gift cards are becoming increasingly popular gifts for all kinds of occasions.
If you’re at a loss for what to do with that stack of gift cards you got for the holidays or you earned online, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to use them, including exchanging gift cards for cash.
Check out your local gift card exchange kiosk to see what options are available to you. You might be able to get ahold of some new cards or cash for your gift cards.
No matter what you choose, do your research first to get the most out of your gift cards.
To help you do that, in this post, we’ll explain how to use gift card exchange kiosks to get money.
What Is A Gift Card Exchange Kiosk?
A gift card exchange kiosk is a machine that allows you to trade in your unwanted gift cards for cash or other gift cards.
These kiosks are usually found in shopping malls or grocery stores and offer a convenient way to get rid of unwanted gift cards.
Many people have gift cards that they will never use, and a gift card exchange kiosk allows them to exchange these cards and receive something they can actually use.
In addition, a gift card exchange kiosk can be a great way to get a discount on your next purchase. By trading in your unwanted gift cards, you can receive a discount on the items you want.
It is, in most cases, a self-serve kiosk. There are several locations where you may exchange gift cards, and I’ll provide some alternatives.
When you decide to sell some of your unused gift cards, you get a part of the remaining monetary value on the card in cash. The redeemable proportion varies depending on the service.
In general, you could expect 60-85 percent money back. You might even receive 90% or more of the gift card’s value back if you’re lucky.
So, if you are looking for a convenient way to get rid of unwanted gift cards, a gift card exchange kiosk is the perfect solution.
How to Use a Gift Card Exchange Kiosk?
Have you ever received a gift card you knew you would never use? Perhaps it was for a store that you don’t shop at, or maybe it had a balance that was too low to be of any use.
If so, you may be interested in learning about gift card exchange kiosks. These kiosks allow you to trade in your unwanted gift cards for cash.
The process is quick and easy, and it can be a great way to get rid of those unwanted gift cards.
To use a gift card exchange kiosk, insert your gift card into the kiosk.
Depending on the configuration, the first action at the gift card exchange kiosk will most likely be inputting the gift card information into the systems. For quick recall, your gift card number is either printed or embossed on the card.
The kiosk will then provide you with an offer for the card. If you accept the offer, you will receive a receipt that you can redeem with the cashier for cash. It’s that simple.
If you don’t like the amount of money offered, you may reject the offer and get your card back.
So next time you receive an unwanted gift card, don’t let it go to waste. Instead, take it to a gift card exchange kiosk and get some cash.
Offline Gift Card Exchange Kiosks Near Me
If you are looking for an offline gift card exchange kiosk near you, there are a few options that you can consider.
One option is to check your local grocery store or shopping mall. Many of these stores have coin-counting machines that allow you to exchange gift cards for cash.
Here are some locations where you may exchange a gift card for cash. Check with your local store to see if it participates in the program; this might differ by location.
1. Coinstar
Coinstar is a coin or gift card for cash kiosk company that operates over 20,000 kiosks in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
You can find Coinstar near you on their website. To exchange your gift card for cash, take your gift card to a Coinstar kiosk and insert it into the slot.
The kiosk will then provide you with a voucher that you can take to a nearby cashier to redeem for cash.
There is usually a small fee associated with this service, but it is typically around 10-15%.
Coinstar also offers the option to exchange your gift card for an eGift card from various popular retailers, which can be used just like a regular gift card.
2. CVS
CVS is a pharmacy and convenience store chain that operates more than 9,800 stores in the United States.
To exchange your gift card for cash at CVS, take your gift card to a participating CVS store and ask the cashier to process it as a “cash back” transaction.
There is usually a limit of $500 per day for this service, and you will be charged a fee for the transaction.
3. Walmart
Walmart is a discount store chain that operates more than 11,700 stores in 27 countries.
To exchange your gift card for cash at Walmart, take your gift card to a participating Walmart store and ask the customer service desk for a cashback transaction.
4. Target
At most Target shops, you may trade your gift cards for a new card at a gift card exchange kiosk. Check with your local Target store to see if they have one.
5. Safeway
Safeway is a grocery store chain with more than 1,700 stores in the United States and Canada.
To exchange your gift card for cash at Safeway, take your gift card to a participating Safeway store and ask the customer service desk for a cashback transaction.
6. Kroger
The Kroger family of stores offers a gift card exchange program at many of their locations.
Bring in your unwanted gift cards and trade them for a Kroger gift card that can be used at any store in the Kroger family.
7. Wallgreens
Walgreens is a drug store chain with more than 8,000 stores in the United States.
To exchange your gift card for cash at Walgreens, take your gift card to a participating Walgreens store and exchange your card.
8. Best Buy
Best Buy is a consumer electronics store chain with more than 1,050 stores in the United States.
To exchange your gift card for cash at Best Buy, take your gift card to a Best Buy store and ask for a cashback/exchange transaction.
These are all major retailers where you can find a gift card exchange kiosk near you. Most of these stores have a Coinstar gift card exchange kiosk, which makes it easy to get cash for your unwanted gift cards.
Online Gift Card Exchange Places
I recommend trying some online gift card exchange sites if you have an unused present card you want to sell for cash.
Depending on your gift card, this alternative may be more practical and lucrative than visiting a physical kiosk.
1. Raise
You may sell your unused gift cards on the Raise platform for a specific price in exchange for money.
To list your card, enter the brand name, gift card value, and selling price.
The company suggests you choose a selling price at or below the gift card’s original value to increase the chances of making a sale.
Once somebody buys your card, the money will show up in your account within two days. You may then request a payout through PayPal or receive a check in the mail.
2. GiftCardBin
GiftCardBin buys unwanted gift cards and sells them at a discount so customers can save money on their purchases.
To sell your gift card, enter the brand name and gift card value on the GiftCardBin website.
You will then be shown a list of offers from various buyers.
Choose the best offer and enter your contact and payment information to complete the sale.
3. Giftcard Zen
Giftcard Zen is a website where you can exchange your gift cards for cash.
It is a safe and convenient way to get rid of unwanted gift cards. The website offers a variety of gift cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
You can also exchange gift cards for other gift cards, such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target. The website is easy to use, and you can receive your cash within 24 hours.
4. Gift card Granny
Have you ever had a gift card that you couldn’t use? Maybe it’s for a store you never visit or a restaurant you don’t like. Or perhaps it’s just for a place that’s too far away to be convenient.
Whatever the reason, there’s no need to let that gift card go to waste. At Gift Card Granny, you can sell gift cards for cash.
Just enter the brand and balance of your gift card, and they’ll make you an offer.
They’ll send you the money via PayPal or check if you accept. It’s easy, and it’s a great way to get rid of those unwanted gift cards.
5. CardCash
CardCash is a website where you can sell gift cards for cash.
Enter the brand and gift card value on the CardCash website to sell your gift card.
You will then be shown a list of offers from various buyers.
Choose the best offer and enter your contact and payment information to complete the sale.
6. GC Spread
Sell gift cards for cash at GC Spread. It’s a win-win!
You sell your gift card for cash, and others get their hands on some much-needed gift cards.
They help you get the most out of your gift cards and are always looking for new gift cards.
So if you’ve got a gift card that you’re not using, or if you know someone who might be interested in exchanging their gift cards for cash, check out GC Spread.
Other Things to Do with Unwanted Gift Cards
1. Transfer Money to Paypal
You can transfer your money in visa gift cards to your Paypal account by following these steps:
– Login to your Paypal account
– Click on “Wallet”
– Click on “Link a card or bank”
– Enter your gift card information
– Follow the instructions to link your card
2. Donate Your Gift Card
If you have a gift card you will never use, consider donating it to a worthy cause.
Many organizations accept donated gift cards, such as:
- The Salvation Army
- Goodwill
- Habitat for Humanity
- The Red Cross
3. Give it as a Gift
Consider giving your unwanted gift card to a friend or family member who could use it.
This is a great way to show someone you care and can really help them out.
4. Use It to Save on Your Everyday Expenses
If you have a gift card for a store you frequent, consider using it to save money on your everyday expenses.
For example, if you have a gift card for Target, you could use it to save money on groceries, clothing, or even gas.
5. Swap It for Something Else
If you have a gift card that you don’t want, consider swapping it for something else.
Many websites and apps allow you to swap gift cards, such as:
- CardSwap
- GiftCardBin
- CardCash
- GC Spread
6. Turn them into Bitcoin
You can turn your gift cards into Bitcoin if you have a Bitcoin wallet.
Many websites allow you to do this, such as:
7. Pay Taxes with them
You can pay your taxes with gift cards. The IRS allows you to pay your taxes with gift cards.
However, there is a processing fee for the payment.
So if you’re looking to save money on your taxes, you can use a gift card to pay the fee.
8. Buy Items to Flip for Money
If you’re looking to make some quick cash, you can buy items with your gift card and then flip them for a profit.
Many websites and apps allow you to do this, such as:
- Letgo
- Craigslist
- Facebook Marketplace
- Mercari
These are just a few of the many ways you can get rid of your unwanted gift cards. So if you’ve got a gift card you don’t want, don’t let it go to waste. Put it to good use and exchange it for cash today or for some everyday use.
Final Thoughts on Gift Card Exchange Kiosks
Selling your gift cards for cash is a great way to get rid of unwanted gift cards.
Just be sure to research and choose the best option for you. And always remember to take safety precautions when selling your gift cards online.
A gift card exchange kiosk is a great option for getting the most out of your money.
Not only do they give you the chance to get cash for your unwanted gift cards, but they also allow you to buy gift cards at a discount.
So if you’re looking for a way to save money or exchange unwanted gift cards, check out a gift card exchange kiosk near you.
FAQs
How do I find a gift card exchange kiosk near me?
The best way to find a gift card exchange kiosk near you is to use a directory service, such as GC Spread.
You can also check the websites of major retailers, such as Target and Walmart.
How does a gift card exchange kiosk work?
A gift card exchange kiosk is a machine that allows you to sell your unwanted gift cards for cash.
You can also use the kiosk to buy gift cards at a discount.
Can you Exchange Gift Cards for Cash at Coinstar?
Yes, besides coins, you can exchange your gift cards at Coinstar for cash. They will take a fee of around 12% for the transaction.
How do I know if a gift card exchange kiosk is safe?
When selling your gift cards for cash, be sure to take safety precautions.
Only sell your gift cards to a reputable exchange kiosk.
Also, be sure to check the reviews of the kiosk before using it.
What gift cards can I sell at a gift card exchange kiosk?
Most gift card exchange kiosks accept major brand gift cards.
However, some kiosks only accept certain types of gift cards.
So be sure to check with the kiosk before selling your gift card.
How much money will I get for my gift card?
The amount of cash you’ll receive for your gift card depends on the card’s brand and the card’s value.
Most gift card exchange kiosks offer a percentage of the card’s value.
For example, if you have a $100 gift card, you may receive $80 for it.
However, some kiosks may offer a flat rate, such as $60 for a $100 gift card.
How do I get paid for my gift card?
Most gift card exchange kiosks pay you in cash.
However, some kiosks may offer other payment options, such as PayPal or check.
So be sure to check with the kiosk before selling your gift card.
What if my gift card is lost or stolen?
You may be out of luck if your gift card is lost or stolen.
Most gift card exchange kiosks require you to have a physical card to sell.
So if your card is lost or stolen, you may not be able to sell it.
Can I return a gift card I bought at a gift card exchange kiosk?
Most gift card exchange kiosks do not allow returns.
So be sure to check with the kiosk before buying a gift card.
Can I use a gift card I bought at a gift card exchange kiosk to purchase items online?
You can use a gift card you bought at a gift card exchange kiosk to purchase items online.
However, you may need to register the card with the website or app before using it.
How do I know if a gift card is expired?
If a gift card is expired, it will likely have an expiration date on the card.
You can also check with the customer service of the company that issued the card.
They should be able to tell you if the card is expired.
Sumeet is a Certified Financial Education Instructor℠ (CFEI®) and the founder of Dollarsrise. He has been writing about earning extra cash online from his personal experiences for the last four years and his work has been quoted in top finance websites like Yahoo! Finance, GOBankingRates, CNBC, and more. Follow this website to learn easy and real-life hacks to raise your pile of dollars.
