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Buying gift cards online using your checking account is a convenient choice if you lack a debit or credit card. You can buy gift cards from CardCash by making payments through ACH.
Alternatively, linking your checking account to PayPal allows you to use it for purchases on sites such as Gift Card Granny, Raise, and eBay. If these methods don’t suit you, you can still buy gift cards using a personal check at stores like Target or Walgreens.
Read on for more information about buying gift cards online with your checking account.
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If you want to buy gift cards online using your checking account info, there’s only one place that lets you do this directly: CardCash, an online store selling gift cards at reduced prices. But, here’s the catch: to make payments through your checking account with CardCash, you’ll need to go through an application process called ACH payments.
CardCash
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To skip this application step, you have another option. You can link your checking account to your PayPal account. Then, you can purchase gift cards from websites like Gift Card Granny or Raise. These sites also offer discounted gift cards similar to what you’d find on CardCash.
ACH Payments on CardCash
CardCash offers the option to buy gift cards online using your checking account. To use this payment method, you need to create an account and apply for ACH payment access. This involves making three transactions using a different payment method and intending to buy something worth over $1,000.
When applying, you’ll need to send your driver’s license copy, the email linked to your checking account, and a request for ACH access to compliance@cardcash.com. CardCash will review your application. If approved, you can buy gift cards directly from your checking account.
Another option is to link your PayPal account to CardCash, connecting it to your checking account for gift card purchases. CardCash offers discounted physical and digital gift cards, up to 35% off their face value. You can also sell your gift cards at a discount or trade them for cards from other stores using CardCash.
Buying gift cards with PayPal
The process is straightforward if you’re looking to purchase gift cards using PayPal. First, ensure you have a PayPal account. If not, sign up on their website by choosing between a business or personal account, providing your name, email, and creating a password. Next, follow the steps provided to add your checking account as a payment method.
For existing PayPal users without a linked checking account, access your PayPal Wallet. Within the Wallet, you can link a bank account or debit/credit card. Follow the prompts to add your preferred payment method.
10 Online sites that let you buy gift cards with your checking account
After connecting your bank account to your PayPal, you can purchase gift cards online from these sites. When making a purchase at various online stores, simply select PayPal at the checkout. The listed sites are arranged based on their overall advantages in terms of discounts and the availability of gift cards.
- Gift Card Granny
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: Up to 50% off
- Raise (Mobile App Only)
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: Up to 30% off; earn up to 15% Raise cash on full-priced gift card purchases
- eGifter
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: Generally around 2% to 20% off; also offers a rewards program to save on future purchases
- Giftcards.com
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: Generally 5% to 15% off
- Target
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: 5% off specialty and third-party gift cards with a Target RedCard
- PayPal
- Gift Card Types: Digital
- Discounts: Varies; up to 20%
- Newegg
- Gift Card Types: Physical or digital
- Discounts: Varies by availability
- eBay
- Gift Card Types: Physical
- Discounts: Varies by seller and availability
- Game Card Delivery
- Gift Card Types: Digital
- Discounts: None available
Buying gift cards with personal checks
If you can’t find the specific gift card you’re looking for among the options listed above, you can indirectly use your checking account to pay for it. This involves using a paper check at a physical store.
It’s important to note that different stores may have varying policies regarding this payment method, so it’s advisable to call ahead and confirm if they accept checks.
The retailers listed below generally allow customers to purchase gift cards using personal checks:
- Big Lots
- Costco
- Giant Eagle
- Meijer
- Office Depot/OfficeMax
- Publix
- Staples
- Target
- Walgreens
- Walmart
Remember, while these stores typically accept personal checks for gift card purchases, verifying their policies beforehand is wise to ensure a smooth transaction.
How to check gift card balance
Checking the balance of a gift card is important, and it’s good to know that the money you don’t spend right away usually stays on the card without an expiration date. It’s like having your own wallet for online shopping—you can use the card for what you need and keep the leftover balance for later purchases.
To check how much is left on your card, log into your account on the shopping website and look for the gift card section. There should be an option to check your gift card balance—just click on that. Many popular shopping sites such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Target have gift cards that don’t expire. Plus, some of these sites might even let you add more money to your card using a credit card, bank account, or checking account.
Difference between gift cards and eGift cards
Gift cards and eGift cards are both forms of prepaid currency, but they differ in their physical nature and delivery methods.
Printed gift cards
Printed gift cards, often made of plastic or cardboard, are physical cards that can be handed to someone in person or sent through the mail. These tangible cards can be used in both physical stores and online. However, the use of printed gift cards may be subject to specific instructions, and the time it takes for the card to reach the recipient depends on shipping, which can be relatively slow. Once received, the recipient can utilize the card as instructed, deducting the amount of their purchases.
eGift cards (electronic cards)
eGift cards, on the other hand, are digital and are sent via email. These cards can also be used in physical stores or online immediately upon receipt. They may or may not include a personalized message and are delivered promptly after the online purchase. Electronic gift cards offer a more instantaneous and convenient option than printed ones.
Denominations and convenience
Both types of gift cards come in various denominations, ranging from small to large amounts. Purchasing them is convenient, as it involves visiting the store’s website, selecting the desired card, and using it to pay for purchases during checkout. The remaining balance on the card is typically retained for future use.
Environmental impact
In terms of environmental impact, eGift cards are more sustainable, as physical cards contribute to plastic and cardboard waste when discarded. Choosing electronic options aligns with eco-friendly practices, as these cards can be used without generating physical waste.
Preference and accessibility
The choice between printed and electronic gift cards often depends on personal preferences and accessibility. While tech-savvy individuals may prefer the immediacy and environmental benefits of eGift cards, others, particularly seniors or those less comfortable with online shopping, may appreciate the tangible nature of printed gift cards.
Excitement and remembrance
Receiving a physical gift card is often considered more exciting than its electronic counterpart. Traditional cards may be more memorable and visually appealing, contributing to a more tangible and memorable gift experience.
Ultimately, the decision between gift cards and eGift cards hinges on individual preferences, environmental considerations, and comfort level with digital transactions.
How to buy a gift card with a bank account?
To buy a gift card using your bank account without online banking, visit a bank branch and ask for a gift card application form. Fill it out with your personal details, contact info, recipient’s details, and choose your payment method.
This form allows the bank to deduct the gift amount from your account. Once completed, the bank will process the payment and issue the gift card accordingly.
Are gift cards safe to use?
Gift cards are generally considered safer than cash for several reasons. When you buy a gift card online, you can usually track it through email records. These records contain crucial details like the purchase time, date, gift card number, and credit or debit card used.
If the gift card gets lost or stolen, having proof of purchase can help customer service track it or issue a replacement. This level of tracking and replacement isn’t possible with cash.
Registering the gift card online can speed up this process further, but not all retailers offer this option. Some, like Disney and Subway, do provide this feature. If you have a gift card from a financial services company like Visa or MasterCard, you can dispute charges similar to a credit card.
However, protections and features can vary between different gift cards, so it’s crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions. Doing so will help you understand any fees, such as card acceptance or inactivity fees, and clarify the protections offered.
How to use a checking account to buy a Visa gift card
A Visa gift card is an ideal present for someone who’s hard to shop for because it allows them to choose whatever they like from places that accept Visa. Getting one with your checking account is a fast, straightforward process. Many different stores and sellers sell these cards, giving you plenty of options to buy them.
Here’s a step-by-step process to buy a Visa gift card using your checking account:
- Visit Visa’s Website: Start by going to Visa’s website and find the “Find a Card” link on the left side of the page.
- Select Gift Cards: Click on “Prepaid & Gift Cards” and then choose the “Visa Gift Card” option.
- Navigate to Buying a Gift Card: Look for the tab labeled “Buying a Gift Card” in the center of the page, then click on “Find a Location.”
- Enter Your Location: Type your zip code into the box labeled “Near” and hit the search button.
- Choose a Retailer: A list will appear showing locations where you can buy a Visa Gift Card. Pick a convenient location from the list.
- Make the Purchase: Go to the chosen location and buy the Visa Gift Card using your checking account by paying with a check or debit card. The amount will be withdrawn from your checking account.
Extra Tip: Alternatively, you can purchase Visa Gift Cards online. On the map page, click the “Online” tab to see a list of vendors that offer online purchases. Keep in mind, some vendors might require membership for online orders, and online purchases usually only accept debit or credit cards.
How to redeem a Visa gift card
A Visa gift card gives you the freedom to pick out your own present, ensuring you get something you truly like for occasions like holidays or birthdays. They’re versatile, usable almost anywhere for various purchases. However, some folks still have queries about how to use them and the specific regulations that apply to these cards.
The process to redeem a Visa gift card is pretty straightforward:
- Check the Balance: Look at the back of the card or contact the number on the card to know the balance. Alternatively, you can visit the Visa website or ask a store clerk to check it for you. But be aware that calling may incur a fee.
- Sign the Card: This step ensures that you’re the only one who can use it, according to Visa’s guidelines.
- Identify the Card Type: Determine whether it’s a general Visa gift card, valid wherever Visa is accepted, or if it’s tied to a specific store. If it’s store-specific, you’ll be limited to using it only there.
- Make a Purchase: When you’re ready to buy something, hand the card to the cashier. They’ll process the card for the purchase amount. Remember, if the purchase exceeds the card’s balance, you’ll need another form of payment to cover the difference.
A handy tip: When you check your balance on the Visa website, your initial password will be the last six digits of the card number.