Check Your Gift Card Balance
It’s important to stay informed about the balance remaining on your gift card to ensure you can use it fully before it expires. Most gift cards allow you to check your balance online, over the phone, or in-store. We provide detailed guidance on how to check the balance of your prepaid Visa, Mastercard, and popular store gift cards.
General Steps to Check Your Gift Card Balance
- Find the Card Number: Your gift card will have a unique card number, usually located on the front of the card.
- Locate the PIN or Security Code: Some cards, like Visa or Mastercard gift cards, require a PIN or security code for balance checking. This is typically found on the back of the card under a scratch-off panel.
- Visit the Issuer's Website: Navigate to the website printed on the back of your card (e.g., VanillaGift, Visa, or Mastercard).
- Enter Your Card Details: Input the card number, expiration date, and PIN (if required) into the balance check form on the website.
- View Your Balance: After submitting your details, the available balance will be displayed, along with the transaction history (if applicable).
Check Balance for Popular Gift Cards
Below are links to official websites for checking the balance of popular gift cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and store-branded gift cards.
Tips for Checking Gift Card Balance
- Keep Your Card Safe: Always store your gift card in a safe place and avoid exposing the PIN or security code until necessary.
- Check the Expiration Date: Some gift cards have expiration dates, so be sure to use your balance before the card becomes invalid.
- Monitor Your Transactions: When checking your balance, look at the transaction history to ensure there are no unauthorized purchases.
- Register Your Card: Some prepaid cards, like Visa or Mastercard, offer the option to register your card online, which helps protect it if it's lost or stolen.
Troubleshooting Issues
If you're having trouble checking your balance, here are some steps to follow:
- Incorrect Card Number or PIN: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct card number and PIN. If you’re unsure, contact the card issuer’s customer service for assistance.
- Website Issues: If the issuer’s website is down or not working properly, try checking your balance through their phone support line. The phone number is usually listed on the back of the card.
- Card Not Activated: In some cases, new gift cards need to be activated by the retailer before use. If your card isn’t showing a balance, verify with the store or issuer that it has been activated.