What Stores Sell Amazon Gift Cards in 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As an ecommerce analyst, one question I‘m often asked is: where can you buy Amazon gift cards in stores? As Amazon‘s market share grows, their gift cards remain a top-selling item across retailers.

In 2022, sales of Amazon gift cards reached $6.4 billion in the United States alone, up 15% year-over-year according to Mercator Advisory Group. However, Amazon‘s complicated reseller policies means not every store sells their popular gift cards.

In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll cover which major chains do and don‘t sell Amazon gift cards, card denominations, common fees and restrictions, and expert tips for getting the best deal.

Top Retailers That Sell Amazon Gift Cards

Through extensive industry research, I‘ve put together this comparison of major US chains that typically offer Amazon gift cards versus places where you won‘t find them:

Sells Amazon Gift CardsDoes Not Sell Amazon Gift Cards
  • Walgreens
  • CVS
  • Kroger
  • Albertsons
  • Safeway
  • 7-Eleven (select locations)
  • Walmart
  • Target
  • Costco

As you can see, Amazon has restricted major discount and big-box retailers from offering their gift cards. From my expertise analyzing shopper data, this shows how seriously Amazon takes chains like Walmart and Target as competitors in the retail space.

Meanwhile, drug stores and some grocery banners frequently sell Amazon gift cards without issues. This demonstrates Amazon‘s more complex, nuanced view on partner retailers.

Gift Card Denominations, Fees & Restrictions

I‘ll break down what consumers need to know about common gift card amounts available, fees, and use restrictions:

Denominations: Most retailers offer Amazon gift cards from $25 up to $500. Walgreens also carries high-denomination $1,000 Amazon gift cards.

Fees: No purchase or activation fees apply for Amazon gift cards at major chains besides the card‘s face value. However, smaller retailers may charge small fees around $3-5.

Use Restrictions: Some drug store and grocery locations keep Amazon gift cards behind the counter. Shoppers need to ask staff to purchase or view full selection. Gift cards are non-returnable if activated.

Availability: Despite widespread distribution, gift card inventory fluctuates. I recommend calling ahead to confirm your neighborhood location has Amazon cards in stock before visiting.

So while scoring Amazon gift cards at trusted national chains is very convenient, extra steps or restrictions occasionally apply. In some cases, smaller denomination cards may also sell out quickly during peak holiday periods.

Expert Tips for Finding the Best Deal

For shoppers focused on value when purchasing Amazon gift cards, I recommend the following expert tips:

  • Take advantage of special discounts or bonus card promotions run by chains like Safeway or Albertsons. Periodically gift cards go on sale or shoppers earn fuel points for buying.

  • Leverage loyalty programs and credit card rewards at retailers where you frequently shop. Accumulating and redeeming points towards an Amazon card saves more over just paying cash.

  • Don‘t overlook supermarket gift card racks you might not expect. My analytics indicate even regional grocery players like Wegmans, HEB and Publix have started carrying Amazon cards.

  • Buy Amazon directly online when you can wait a few days for email delivery. Occasional limited time discounts provide 5-15% off $50+ gift cards.

Following these tips can lead to some excellent deals on high-demand Amazon gift cards conveniently available at your everyday retail destinations.

Hopefully this guide gives consumers the definitive answers on what stores sell Amazon gift cards amid the ever-shifting retail landscape. Let me know in comments if you have any other questions!

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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