N
The Daily Insight Hub

What does electronic use only mean on Visa gift card?

Author

Matthew Harrington

Updated on January 18, 2026

“Electronic use only” appears on all unembossed cards to indicate that the card must be swiped and authorized through an electronic terminal. This is because unembossed cards have no raised letters or digits and, therefore, can’t be used with manual imprint machines.

Can Walmart Visa cards be used online?

The Card may not be used at any merchant, including Internet and mail or telephone order merchants, outside of the United States or the District of Columbia. The Card may not be accepted at merchants that require manual Card imprints.

Why is my Walmart Visa gift card not working?

The most common reasons are that the card hasn’t been activated, the cashier is running the wrong type of transaction, the dollar amount being charged is greater than the card’s balance or the credit card processing machine is bumping up the charge amount to either place a hold on the card or to allow for a gratuity.

What does card only mean?

If your debit card says “Electronic Use Only,” it means any transaction involving the card must receive this kind of on-the-spot authorization.

What is a cardholder on a visa?

The definition of cardholder means someone who owns and benefits from the use of a membership card, particularly a credit card. Someone with a VISA credit card in their wallet is an example of a cardholder.

Does a Walmart Visa only work at Walmart?

Your Walmart Visa gift card can be used where Visa debit cards are accepted within the United States and District of Columbia. Puerto Rico and other United States territories are excluded. You can also redeem them at Sam’s Club, Vudu, and at Walmart and Sam’s Club online stores.

How long does it take for a visa gift card to activate?

What to Expect After You Activate a Gift Card. After you activate the gift card, it should be ready to use. I have seen some cases where a gift card issuer imposes a waiting period after purchase, meaning the gift card may not be usable for up to 24-48 hours even though it has been activated.

How do I activate my Walmart card online?

Here’s how to activate your Walmart Credit Card online:

  1. Log in to your account.
  2. Click on “Activate My Card.”
  3. Enter your personal information.

Can a prepaid Visa be used at Walmart?

Prepaid Visa cards must first be activated online, explains Walmart. After this, the card can then be used to make purchases anywhere that Visa debit cards are accepted. No bank account or credit check is required to obtain a prepaid debit card from Walmart, according to the company.

Where can I use my Walmart Visa debit card?

your online or phone purchase. Use your Walmart Visa Gift Card everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted in the fifty (50) states of the United States and the District of Columbia, excluding Puerto Rico and the other United States territories.

Can you use an international credit card at Walmart?

You cannot use your international credit card on Walmart.com. Walmart does not ship overseas. If your international credit card is issued by Visa, Mastercard, or Discover, you should be able to use it without issue at Walmart stores. Chip and pin cards are accepted at most regional Walmart stores.

Can you use a Walmart gift card at Walmart?

If you don’t have a major credit card, consider purchasing Walmart gift cards inside Walmart stores. To be sure what credit cards are accepted at the Walmart store you’re visiting, consult the “We gladly accept” sign located at the store’s entrance.