Does CVS Sell Amazon Gift Cards in 2024? The Complete Guide
Gift cards continue to rank as one of the most requested and purchased gift items for all occasions. According to the National Retail Federation‘s annual survey, gift cards were the most popular gift choice in 2022 for the 16th year in a row. And Amazon gift cards in particular remain a top seller due to the versatility and convenience they provide.
But does a popular pharmacy chain like CVS sell Amazon gift cards? And how do their selection and prices compare to other major retailers? Here’s a detailed look at what to know about purchasing Amazon gift cards at CVS in 2024.
Overview of Amazon Gift Card Selection at CVS
CVS provides a solid in-store selection of some of the most popular Amazon gift card amounts. Based on a spot check of CVS locations, here are the specific Amazon gift card options currently available:
- $25 Amazon gift cards
- $50 Amazon gift cards
- $100 Amazon gift cards
Some CVS stores may additionally offer $15 Amazon gift cards, though availability varies. You can check gift card selection at your nearby CVS by calling ahead or swinging by the store.
According to 2022 sales data, the $25 and $50 gift card amounts represent the most purchased denominations across all retail channels. So the CVS denominations align well with general consumer demand.
The only potential downside is that CVS does not offer customizable gift card amounts. Competitors like Walgreens and Safeway provide that added flexibility.
Amazon Gift Card Sales Continue Strong Growth
Amazon gift cards have shown stellar sales growth over the past few years:
- Total gift card sales increased 14% from 2020 to 2021 according to global merchant data.
- Amazon branded gift cards ranked as the #1 bestselling gift card of 2021.
- Digital gift card spending jumped 45% in 2021 as more consumers went digital.
As Amazon’s popularity continues to grow, their branded gift cards have become a popular "catch-all" gift idea given Amazon‘s enormous selection of merchandise available.
Below is a table comparing Amazon gift card availability across major US retailers:
| Retailer | Denominations | Custom Amounts | Other Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVS | $25, $50, $100 | No | Amazon Cash reload |
| Walgreens | $15, $25, $50, $100 | Yes | Promotional discounts |
| Safeway | $25, $50, $100 | Yes | Fuel points |
| Walmart | $25, $50, $100 | No | Pickup discounts |
Buying Amazon Gift Cards at CVS – Pros and Cons
Here is my personal analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing Amazon gift cards specifically at CVS locations:
Pros
- No purchase fees (aside from any prepaid card fees)
- Immediate in-store availability
- Can reload existing gift card with Amazon Cash
- Frequent ExtraBucks rewards promotions
Cons
- No custom gift card amounts
- No online ordering option
- Limited selection compared to grocery stores
- Returns not allowed on gift cards
The convenience factor of grabbing an Amazon gift card during a regular CVS shopping trip is a nice perk. But grocery chains may offer more selection and flexibility for custom amounts.
Are Amazon Gift Cards Good Gifts?
In my opinion, Amazon gift cards make for great gifts, especially when you‘re unsure exactly what to buy someone. Key benefits include:
Universal appeal – Given Amazon‘s vast selection, the recipient can find almost anything they want.
Convenience – No need to make a special shopping trip. Items can be purchased online and delivered.
Flexibility – Gift cards don‘t expire so the recipient can shop at their convenience.
Customization – Many retailers like Walgreens allow custom gift card amounts up to $300.
Budget-friendly – Gift cards let the recipient get exactly what they want for the specified amount.
Just be sure to give the gift receipt in case the recipient wants to exchange it for a different retailer.
The Final Take
CVS provides convenient in-store access to some of Amazon‘s most popular gift card denominations. While selection is limited compared to other retailers, the ability to pick up an Amazon gift card during a regular CVS shopping trip without any fees is a nice perk. Just know online ordering and returns are not available. But with gift card sales continuing to surge and Amazon‘s universal appeal, CVS remains a solid option for Amazon gift card purchases.
