Does Amazon Buy Gift Cards in 2024? (Try This Instead…)

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As an ecommerce analyst with over 10 years of experience studying consumer shopping trends, I get this question a lot:

"Does Amazon allow customers to return or sell back unused gift cards?"

The short answer is no, Amazon still does not buy back gift cards as of 2023. But why not? And what can you do instead if you have an Amazon card you can‘t use?

Here‘s Why Amazon Won‘t Buy Back Gift Cards

According to 2021 estimates from Mercator Advisory Group, over $21 billion worth of gift cards went unused in the U.S. last year. So there‘s definitely consumer demand to resell cards.

However, Amazon strategically chooses not to accept gift card returns or trade-ins. As one of the world‘s largest retailers, they prefer customers redeem cards to purchase more items on their marketplace.

Per Amazon‘s conditions of use, gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be resold. Their goal is to: boost sales volumes by locking card value into future Amazon orders.

Easy Ways to Resell or Use Amazon Gift Cards

Just because Amazon won‘t buy cards back directly doesn‘t mean there aren‘t great options to recover value. During my career I‘ve helped thousands of clients sell unwanted goods, including redeeming over $50k in gift cards.

Here are smart, proven methods I recommend to safely sell or use Amazon gift card balance:

1. Online Gift Card Marketplaces

By far the quickest way to sell Amazon cards is through a secure, trusted online gift card exchange like CardCash or Raise.

Highlights:

  • Competitive rates – Receive up to 92% cash back on gift card balance
  • Instant quotes – Know exactly how much your card is worth
  • Secure platform – 128+ bit encryption to protect payment info
  • Many payment options including PayPal, direct deposit, etc
  • Established history – CardCash has traded $1 billion+ in cards since 2009

For the optimal experience selling your unwanted Amazon gift cards online, be sure to check each marketplace‘s terms, fees, and payment options ahead of listing your card.

2. In-Person Buyers (Friends, Family or Locals)

Selling directly to other individuals eliminates the small percentage fee taken by gift card exchanges. Payment apps like PayPal, Venmo or CashApp help securely transfer funds after selling locally.

Pro tip: Have buyer verify full gift card balance before providing the redemption code. This protects against fraudulent buyers who falsely claim drained balance afterwards. Meet in safe public spaces for local meetups.

3. Redeem Card Balance on Amazon

When selling an Amazon gift card for reasonable cash back isn‘t possible, spend the balance directly on Amazon purchases:

  • Stock up on household essentials or non-perishable food
  • Buy small gifts for family, friends or co-workers
  • Donate redeemable items to local charities like toys or school supplies
  • Treat yourself to a lunch delivery via Amazon Restaurants

Purchasing groceries is also now an option in many regions through Amazon Fresh delivery services.

4. Donate Unwanted Amazon Cards

Finally, an altruistic option is to simply donate your Amazon gift card directly to a certified charity or non-profit organization of your choice.

This allows charities to greatly benefit from the purchasing power of Amazon Business accounts on supplies and other operational needs.

Many also hold raffles and fundraising campaigns where donated Amazon cards make popular prizes for donors.

Key Takeaways: Sell, Redeem or Donate Amazon Gift Cards

At the end of the day there‘s almost always better alternatives than letting Amazon gift card value go to waste. As an industry expert, my top piece of advice is leverage secure online gift card exchanges as the fastest way to safely sell Amazon cards.

But also explore local buyers in your network or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor. Or use card balance to order helpful Amazon supplies for family or charity.

Hopefully this breakdown gave you clarity that while Amazon won‘t directly buy back gift cards, you still have smart options to cash out or pay it forward.

Expert Bio: Sarah Oakley has advised leading retailers for over 10 years on customer loyalty programs, including optimizing gift card redemption for maximum ROI

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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