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The Daily Insight Hub

Can you get your money back if you buy a gift card?

Author

Daniel Santos

Updated on February 11, 2026

Generally speaking, gift cards are considered non-refundable. When you purchase a card, you use it once and stick to what you bought. In practice, buyers are given a lot more leeway and they can refund most products under the right circumstances. Gift card return policies vary from retailer to retailer.

Can a gift card be unredeemed?

Some states have laws governing unclaimed property that regulate gift card breakage. However, as a result of consumer advocacy efforts, in many cases gift cards have no expiration date and, when unredeemed, represent an indefinite obligation of the retailer (see sidebar “Consumers Fight Gift Card Restrictions”).

Can the person who bought you a gift card see your purchases?

A) Yes, they do keep track of purchases. Almost all prepaid gift cards require some form of registration where they collect different data about you: name, address, zip code, phone number, etc.

Can you buy something with a gift card and return it for cash at Walmart?

Originally Answered: Can you exchange a gift card for cash at Walmart? NO…. a gift card is to purchase merchandise only. Cant be used for alcohol, tobacco products, services or exchanged for cash.

What happens when you return an item bought with a gift card?

Usually if you buy something paid with credit card or any card the store will credit it to the same card you paid in the beginning if you return the item ! With the gift card most likely you will get credit as a gift card from the store you buy and return the item . You will not get refund in cash .

How can I save money on gift cards?

Buy cheap on eBay and then find the best places to sell your gift cards for a profit. Or you might buy all the unused gift cards owned by family and friends for 50% of face value and sell them for a profit online. Even if you don’t have any interest in the profit opportunities, the potential to save money is clear.

Can a gift card be used at a grocery store?

Yes, you can earn rewards on gift card purchases with your credit card. One of the best strategies is to use a grocery credit card at an eligible grocery store. Certain store cards may also offer excellent rewards.

How much money can you make selling a gift card?

The seller buys a $50 gift card for $40. The seller sells the $50 gift card (that he bought for $40) for an amount of $45. A buyer purchases the card and earns $5 in saving (he bought a $50 gift card for only $45), while the seller makes $5 in profit (he sold a gift card he bought for $40 for $45.)

Can you give a savings bond as a gift?

To buy an electronic savings bond as a gift: You must have a TreasuryDirect account. The recipient must have a TreasuryDirect account. You must know the recipient’s: Full name. Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number. TreasuryDirect account number. You can give gift bonds to adults or children.