How Do eGift Cards Work

eGift cards are digital versions of plastic gift cards. With an eGift card, there is no physical card to worry about or carry around in a wallet or bag. If you're unfamiliar with how eGifts work or want to know more information about sending one and using one, you've come to the right place. Here are the top 5 things you need to know about how eGift cards work. 

1. What is an eGift card?

eGift cards are a popular gift option in today's modern world because the gift card information is sent digitally in an email or text. The gift card information comes in the form of a code. eGift cards are also known as digital, electronic, virtual, or mobile gift cards. 

2. How is an eGift card sent?

eGift cards are sent and delivered in an email, app, or text. The gift is sent instantly or within 24 hours depending on the retailer or provider. Since there is no physical card to carry, the gift information is always available in an email, text, or an app.

3. Where can I buy an eGift card?

You can buy eGift cards online. From restaurants to retailers to gift card providers, all you have to do is visit their gift card page to see if they offer digital gift cards. 

4. How do I send an eGift card?

Digital gift cards make the perfect contactless gift. You can send a gift in minutes while you're watching tv at home or riding the bus to work. Here’s how to send an eGift card in 6 easy steps.

• Select the eGift card option on the provider's gift card page.
• Choose the gift card amount.
• Choose how many gift cards you want to send in the quantity section.
• Enter the recipient details which may include their name, email address, or phone number.
• Type a personal message to send along with your gift.
• Add the eGift card to your cart and proceed to checkout.
  

5. How do I use an eGift card?

Most eGift cards can be used online as well as in-store but it's always a good idea to check with the retailer to confirm your redemption options. Here’s how to use an eGift card.

Online

‍Enter the gift card code on the payment options screen during checking out or, upload the eGift card amount directly into your account.

In-Store

‍Show the eGift card code on your smartphone or tablet when you're ready to pay at the register. You can print the gift code information and present it to the cashier in-store. 

What's the difference between an eGift from giftya and an eGift card?

Good question. When you send an eGift on giftya, the recipient can connect it to their Visa or Mastercard. What's fantastic about connecting the eGift to a Visa or Mastercard is, the gift cannot be lost. Once the gift is connected, there is no code to enter into a website or to show a cashier. All they have to do is use the card they connected the gift to and like magic, they be will credited the amount. 

For example, say you send a friend a $5 giftya to a coffee shop. Your friend connects the $5 giftya to her Visa credit card. When she visits the coffee shop, she pays for her latte (as usual) using her Visa credit card. When she receives her credit card statement, she will see the $5 credit to the coffee shop.

So, rethink that birthday or graduation present this year and send a unique eGift. They are a simple, fast, eco-friendly gift solution and come in a variety of denominations, can be sent via email or text, and can be used online and in-store.

Written by Mary Koczan