Can You Return Gift Cards?
Some retailers allow shoppers to return gift cards, but it depends.
Main image courtesy of Marketing With Meg.
Do you have a stash of unused gift cards gathering dust in your drawer? Maybe you received a gift card to a store you never shop at, or you purchased one on a whim and later regretted it. Whatever the reason, it's a common predicament. But fear not, because the chances of successfully returning that gift card may be higher than you think!
The process of returning a gift card is not always simple. Some stores are generous enough to let you return your gift card with a receipt, while others may only accept them if required by state law.
If you're holding onto an unused gift card, don't let it go to waste! With our latest guide, we've done the research for you by compiling a list of the top 20 stores and their gift card return policies. From the lenient to the strict, we'll explore the ins and outs of returning gift cards.
GiftYa Makes Returning + Exchanging Gift Cards Simple
Finding the right gift for someone can be difficult. But GiftYa eGift cards are perfect for any occasion! GiftYa offers hundreds of virtual gift cards for restaurants, retail stores, spas, and hotels around the country. Within seconds, you can send your loved one a GiftYa by text, link, or email to their favorite restaurant or shop along with a custom message. Once they receive it, they can upload it right to their debit card.
Give the gift card they don’t have to return! If you purchase a GiftYa card for a merchant that the recipient doesn’t frequent often, they can always swap it out for any other merchant in the GiftYa catalog. They can also cash it out and Zelle the money to their bank account if they would rather have the cash.
The result? GiftYa eliminates the hassle of having to head in-store to (attempt to) return the card.
Explore GiftYa digital gift cards
General Tips for Returning a Gift Card
Everything you need to know about returning a gift card for an easy exchange!
There are many tips to know when returning a gift card, such as checking the store’s return policy. Image courtesy of iStock.
When returning a gift card, it’s important to know the proper steps to do so, such as checking into a store’s policy, among other reasons that are important to get some cash back. Check out some of the important factors to look over when choosing a return gift and what the requirements are.
Check the Store's Return Policy
If you want to return a gift card, the first thing you should do is check the store’s return policy.
Not all stores allow gift card returns, and some may only accept returns in certain circumstances. For example, some stores may allow returns if the gift card has not been used or if it was purchased within a certain time frame. Most stores require the original receipt or proof of purchase.
You can usually find the gift card return policy on a store’s website or you can call their customer service line.
Make Sure it Hasn’t Already Been Used
Whether you purchased a gift card for yourself or for someone else, you should make sure it hasn’t been used. Most stores won't accept gift card returns if the card has been partially or fully redeemed. You can usually check online or in-store to see if a card has been used.
Check Your State’s Refund Law
Did you know that some states require merchants to provide cash refunds for used gift cards? Each state differs according to the maximum amount of cash it requires retailers to refund, with some examples being the following:
- California: $9.99
- Colorado: $5.00
- Maine: $4.99
- Massachusetts: $4.99
- Montana: $4.99
- New Jersey: $4.99
- Oregon: $4.99
- Rhode Island: $0.99
- Vermont: $0.99
- Washington: $4.99
In order to successfully redeem your card for cash, you must make sure that the remaining balance isn’t above a certain number. This number will vary from state to state.
Find the Original Receipt
Hopefully, you kept the receipt for the gift card. Having a receipt will ensure a smooth return process.
Prepare to Provide Identification
When returning a gift card, you may be asked to provide identification, such as a driver's license or passport. This ensures that the person returning the gift card is the rightful owner of the card.
Expect Different Refund Options
You might not always receive a full cash refund for the gift card. Depending on the store's return policy, you may receive store credit instead of a cash refund. Some stores may charge a restocking fee or deduct a processing fee from the refund amount too.
Consider Other Options
Even with a receipt and ID, you might not be able to return your gift card. But fret not, you have other options. You can sell the card online through a reputable reseller or use it to purchase gifts for friends and family members.
Can You Return It?
Knowing what kinds of gift cards that you can and can’t return is crucial to get familiar with!
If you have a gift card that you know you won’t use, but want to return, it’s important to first know if it is able to be swapped for cash or even in-store credit. There are many popular franchises that sell gift cards everyday, but if you have one, it’s important to know if you should just use the gift card, or if you’re able to sell it for some easy cash.
Check out some of the most popular places to shop and see if you can return their gift cards!
1. Target
Can you return a Target gift card?
Who doesn’t love shopping at Target? You can purchase almost anything you need here, from home decor to fresh groceries. Some Targets even offer a Starbucks inside.
But unfortunately, shoppers who want to return their Target gift cards cannot return them for a cash refund except where required by law.
2. Panera
Can you return a Panera gift card?
Panera is the perfect spot for grabbing a quick meal with friends. This popular chain is known for its savory sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of mac-and-cheese or a fresh Caesar salad, you can head to Panera for a quick pick-me-up.
If you have a Panera gift card you want to return, you will not be able to get a refund unless you’re in a state where it’s required by law for them to refund you.
3. Insomnia Cookies
Can you return an Insomnia Cookies gift card?
Insomnia Cookies digital gift card.
The next time those late-night cravings hit, you can order some sweet treats from Insomnia Cookies. Insomnia Cookies is open until 3 am and offers delivery service straight to your door. Fresh cookies, brownies, ice cream sandwiches, and cakes await you!
Do you have an Insomnia Cookies gift card you don’t plan on using? Unless required by law, you will not be able to return your Insomnia Cookies gift card. However, you can always surprise a friend or family member with some fresh cookies!
Insomnia Cookies digital gift card.
4. Lyft
Can you return a Lyft gift card?
Whether you need a ride to the airport or you’re heading home after a night out at the bars, Lyft is there to help you get to where you need to be. This popular ride-hailing app makes it easy to schedule a ride on the fly or at a pre-set time. In addition to its ride-hailing services, Lyft offers motorized scooters, a bicycle-sharing program, rental cars, and even food delivery.
But, for whatever reason, you might realize you aren’t going to use your Lyft gift card. So, can you return a Lyft gift card? Unless required by law, you will not be able to return a Lyft gift card.
5. TOMS
Can you return a TOMS gift card?
TOMS is known for its comfortable shoes for men and women. You can find sneakers, dress shoes, boots, slip-ons, and more online or in one of their many stores. When the company started, it donated one pair of shoes for every shoe purchased. Nowadays, it donates a third of its profits to “grassroots good.”
Do you have a TOMS gift card lying around? Unfortunately, your gift card cannot be exchanged for cash, unless required by law.
6. Express
Can you return an Express gift card?
Express is known for its stylish, high-end men’s and women’s apparel. Whether you need a new dress for a job interview or a new pair of shoes for hitting the bars, you can find high-quality clothing and shoes at Express.
If you have an Express gift card you don’t plan to use, you will not be able to return it unless required by law.
7. Giant Food
Can you return a Giant Food gift card?
Giant Food is a popular grocery store that offers everything you need for a delicious meal. Whether you need to stock up on snacks or you want to try out a new recipe, you can find everything you need and more at Giant Food.
Do you have a Giant Food gift card you don’t want to use? You can return the card if you live in a state that has a cash-back policy. However, depending on the state, you may only get a certain amount of cashback.
8. JCPenney
Can you return a JCPenney gift card?
JCPenney is your one-stop shop for clothing, accessories, home decor, beauty supplies, and more!
Do you have a JCPenney gift card that’s been lying around, unused? Unfortunately, JCPenney gift cards are not returnable.
But with so many great items offered, it’s easy to find a fun gift at JCPenney for your loved one. You might even find something for yourself and use your gift card after all!
9. Texas Roadhouse
Can you return a Texas Roadhouse gift card?
Texas Roadhouse digital gift card.
Texas Roadhouse is a popular steakhouse that is known for its hearty steak, rib, chicken, and seafood dishes. Some of their most popular dishes include the Cactus Bloom onion ring plate, USDA Choice Sirloin, and Grilled BBQ Chicken.
Texas Roadhouse is great for any occasion. But if this isn’t your kind of spot and you received a gift card for it, it’s fair to want to know if you can return it. Unfortunately, unless you live in a state where stores are required to allow gift card returns, you may not be able to redeem it for cash.
Texas Roadhouse digital gift card.
10. Sunoco
Can you return a Sunoco gift card?
Sunoco is a popular gas station that has locations all around the country. There’s a pretty high chance that you’ve refueled at a Sunoco at least once. It’s also a great spot for grabbing some snacks and drinks for a long road trip.
If you have an unused Sunoco gift card, you might not be able to redeem it unless required by law. If you are able to redeem it, you may not get the full cash value back.
11. PacSun
Can you return a PacSun gift card?
PacSun is a popular apparel brand among teenagers and young adults. It’s the go-to spot for fun clothing and accessories that follow the latest trends. You can find a wide selection of swimwear, loungewear, activewear, accessories, and more!
If you have an unused PacSun gift card, you might be wondering if you can return it. Why keep it if you aren’t going to use it? Unfortunately, you won’t be able to return your PacSun gift card unless you live in a state that requires it by law. However, you can always use your gift card to purchase some new clothes and accessories as a gift for someone else!
12. Michaels
Can you return a Michaels gift card?
If you’re a big arts and crafts person or you are a professional artist, Michaels has everything you need for your next big project. You can find high-quality canvases, frames, brushes, yarns, sewing machines, home decor, and more at this popular retail chain!
Unfortunately, Michaels does not offer cash refunds for gift cards unless required by law. But with so many great products, you’re sure to find one to purchase with your card as a gift for the arts and crafts lover in your life!
13. H&M
Can you return an H&M gift card?
H&M is known for its fashionable apparel offered at a low price. Women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, home decor, beauty products, and more are offered in-stores and online. If you have an H&M gift card you don’t want to use, you won’t be able to return it unless required by law.
14. Amazon
Can you return an Amazon gift card?Check out the Amazon gift card
Amazon gift cards are a great purchase that you can give to anyone where they can purchase pretty much whatever they want. No matter if it's groceries, cleaning supplies for your home, video games, furniture, or even pet food and toys, Amazon is the place to shop for anything and get it delivered in a timely manner.Unfortunately, Amazon gift cards are not able to be returned, exchanged, or cashed out. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing products to purchase off of the website, making it a great reason to give them a try and buy something you like!Check out the Amazon gift card
15. Bath & Body Works
Can you return a Bath & Body Works gift card?Check out the Bath & Body Works gift card
Many people love Bath & Body Works, simply for their delicious and yummy smelling products. They have everything you need from hand soaps, body lotion, body wash, skincare products, car fresheners, air fresheners, candles, and even shampoo and conditioner that can come in both men and women’s scents. If you have a Bath & Body Works gift card that you wish to return, it’s sad to say, but it is not allowed. However, you can check your balance and purchase some hand soaps or candles for your home to get it smelling good in no time!Check out the Bath & Body Works gift card
16. Gap
Can you return a Gap gift card?Check out the Gap gift card
There are many popular clothing stores that you can shop at when you’re going to the mall or at the outlets. Gap is one of the most popular American clothing lines that sells clothes for men, women, and children, and their denim line is among the most popular around. They offer timeless, clean, and aesthetically pleasing clothing that looks good for casual wear, and even to dress up.Gap is a company that allows customers to return unused gift cards and the amount on the gift card will be put back on the credit or debit card that was used to purchase it. They also allow customers to return the gift card or exchange for a gift to the person who gave it to you.Check out the Gap gift card
17. DoorDash
Can you return a DoorDash gift card?Check out the DoorDash gift card
If there is ever a time where you are craving one of your favorite foods from a restaurant in the area that you love? DoorDash is great for whenever you want food or drinks delivered and you can order from almost anywhere in your area.DoorDash is a great company that delivers food to your doorstep, but if you have a gift card of theirs you wish to sell, it is unreturnable. Anyone with a gift card is urged to treat themselves to something delicious and get their favorite food sent to their doorstep, or even purchase something for a friend with it.Check out the DoorDash gift card
18. Apple
Can you return an Apple gift card?Check out the Apple gift card
There is no doubt that one of the most popular smartphones is made by Apple. From their amazing iPhones that get better and better with every year, and their MacBooks, Apple Watches, iPads, Airtags, and other useful products—they are a tech company that is always evolving and creating products that can make people’s lives easier.If you received an Apple gift card and are looking to return it, it is sadly not returnable, and cannot be cashed out or exchanged. Apple does offer a ton of products, including accessories such as cases and phone chargers that can be an easy purchase and you can get money off with the gift card you have.Check out the Apple gift card
19. Dunkin’
Can you return a Dunkin’ gift card?Check out the Dunkin’ gift card
Whenever you need a little pick-me-up in the morning, such as a large cup of coffee, Dunkin’ is one of the best places to go to. Dunkin’ offers all of your morning essentials when you need a coffee, hot tea, lattes, macchiatos, or even their energy-charged refreshers, plus you can pair your drink with a breakfast sandwich or a signature donut.Dunkin’ is a popular place to go to, but if you’re looking to return your gift card, they are non-returnable or redeemable for a cash out unless required by law. Instead, you can opt to download their app on your smartphone to rack up points for free coffee, donuts, or breakfast sandwiches!Check out the Dunkin’ gift card
20. GiftYa Select
Can you return a GiftYa Select gift card?Check out the GiftYa Select gift card
There is no gift card that is quite like GiftYa Select. This is a unique gift card that is given to customers and it allows them to choose the specific type of gift card that they want. People that send this gift card can choose from over 200,000 merchants, select the amount, customize it with a picture or video, and send it to the recipient via text message or email.Unfortunately, customers who received the GiftYa Select gift card are not able to return the gift card, cash it out, or exchange it. Instead, customers can take a look at all of the merchants that GiftYa offers and select one to use the gift card for a business that offers a service or product that you love!Check out the GiftYa Select gift cardThe Verdict: Can You Return Gift Cards?It depends. If you’re ever unsure if a store accepts gift card exchanges, you can usually find their policy on their website. If they do accept returns, they will likely require a receipt. That’s why it’s essential to always keep when, whether you’re purchasing a gift card for yourself or someone else.
So can you return gift cards?
It depends. If you’re ever unsure if a store accepts gift card exchanges, you can usually find their policy on their website. If they do accept returns, they will likely require a receipt. That’s why it’s essential to always keep when, whether you’re purchasing a gift card for yourself or someone else.
Trae Bodge
Trae Bodge is the shopping expert here at GiftYa. Trae helps people find the best deals and ideas on popular new items to purchase.
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