At one in time, it is of no doubt that one of us have had that task of buying a gift for an individual who is difficult to shop for. Purchasing a gift card here is one of the best solution, if not the best solution to the problem.
Several retailers and credit card issuers let you buy gift cards with credit cards. Some card issuers may restrict this type of transaction, while some stores have their own restrictions or don't offer gift cards at all—smaller stores and private businesses, for example.
Regardless of the reason you want to purchase a gift card with credit card, you can actually buy gift cards with gift cards without any hassle. It is good you keep in mind that there might be some restrictions of which you need to be aware of before you show up at the nearest retailer. For this reason, it is important for you to have a mastery of when you should and shouldn't buy a gift card using credit card.
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What is a Gift Card?
A gift card is a type of prepaid card that contains a specific monetary value, allowing the cardholder to make purchases up to the card's loaded amount at a particular retailer or group of retailers. When someone purchases a gift card, they are essentially preloading a specific dollar amount onto the card, which can then be used by the recipient for retail transactions at the issuing company's store or associated stores.
There are various types of gift cards, including those from specific retailers, popular credit card companies, and major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Some gift cards are redeemable at a single store or a collection of affiliated brands, while others can be used more broadly at any merchant that accepts the specific brand or network associated with the gift card.
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What is a Credit Card?
A credit card is a payment card that allows cardholders to borrow funds from a financial institution (usually a bank) to make purchases or transactions.
These borrowed funds, known as a credit line or credit limit, can be used to pay for goods, services, or to obtain cash advances. Unlike a debit card, which is linked directly to the cardholder's checking or savings account, a credit card provides the user with a line of credit that must be repaid under specific terms and conditions.
Can You Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card?
Yes, in most cases, you are able to buy gift cards with a credit card but there are some things you need to keep in mind first.
How to Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card
Purchasing a gift card is not much different from buying an item at an online or brick-and-mortar retailer. All you need to do choose the gift card that suits you best and then use a credit card as your payment method.
Once you are at a brick-and-mortar retailer, pick the card you want, move to the cashier, and let them know the amount you want on the gift card before letting them know you will be using a credit card to pay.
As for online purchases, simply click on the gift card you want, type in the amount, navigate to the checkout section, and then enter your credit card information.
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Where Can You Buy a Gift Card With a Credit Card?
You are able to buy gift cards at most major retailers and restaurants since the major retailers tend to sell their own gift cards and also that of other retailers. Small businesses and restaurants tend to offer gift cards only for themselves.
You can also purchase a gift card at online retailers or some marketplaces that sell gift cards.
Which Gift Card Can I Buy With a Credit Card?
Normally, you should find it easy to buy any gift card with a credit card. Gift cards fall under two major categories as seen below:
Open Loop:
These are broad in nature types of gift cards and most often come from a financial institution such as Visa or Mastercard. You are able to make use of them for any purpose so long as the retailer accepts payment from the gift card issuer. Like for instance, if you have a Visa gift card card, you will be able to make use of it at any retailer that accepts Visa.
Store-Based:
These are gift cards for specific retailers and can only be used at establishments stated on the card, even though some few might allow you to use it at more than one store branch. Like for example, if your gift card if for a major gaming retailer, you will not be able to use it at your local restaurant.
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What Are The Best Credit Cards For Purchasing Gift Cards?
The best credit cards for purchasing gift cards are those that offer you the chance to earn as many rewards as you can. Afterall, it all depends on your needs and where you spend your money most.
According to my experience purchasing gift cards with credit cards, The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express is generally a great all round card due to the fact that it offers unlimited 6% cash back for purchases from certain U.S streaming subscriptions services and U.S supermarkets.
In case you are a regular shopper at Target, the Target RedCard is an option for those who opt for discounts on gift cards. Though you can only use this credit card at Target, you can receive 5% back on in-person and online purchases at Target, as well as speciality gift cards.
Does Purchasing Gift Cards Count As Cash Advance?
There are some few cases where gift card purchases can be seen as cash advance and in case this happens, you will be charged cash advance fees and incur a higher interest rate with your credit card.
Prepaid or Open ended gift card typically counts as Cash advance so before you make a purchase, it is advisable that you ask your credit card issuer what the rules are.
Final Thoughts: Can You Buy Gift Cards With a Credit Card?
When using a credit card to purchase gift cards, it's always a good practice to be mindful of your spending and to ensure that the purchase aligns with your needs and financial management strategy. Additionally, understanding any associated fees or limitations can help you make an informed decision about using a credit card for gift card transactions.
For the most accurate and current information regarding the use of credit cards for purchasing gift cards, it is recommended to review the specific policies of the retailer or contact their customer service for clarification.