Can You Buy a Gift Card With a Credit Card?
Gift cards are popular presents – they are convenient, easy to use, and almost always appreciated by the recipient. But if you want to purchase a gift card with a credit card, what are the options? Navigating the world of credit card gift card purchases can be overwhelming, so let’s take a look at what you need to know.
Types of Gift Cards
Before you consider a credit card purchase, you should identify the different types of gift cards available.
Store Gift Cards – These are typically sold at most major retail stores, offering a credit-like balance you can use to purchase items within the store.
E-Gift Cards – These exist in both store-specific varieties and multi-store options. Most of these are purchased online and are sent to the recipient via email and/or text message.
Visa and Mastercard Prepaid Cards – These are widely available and accepted in most places, just like their debit and credit card counterparts.
Third-Party Gift Cards – This can refer to a variety of gift card formats offered by outside companies. For example, some companies sell gift cards for popular online stores and others offer gift cards for other retail stores.
Purchasing with Credit Cards
Now let’s move on to the main topic at hand- can you buy gift cards with a credit card? Generally speaking, yes, you can use a credit card to purchase a gift card. Most major retailers and third-party companies accept credit cards for gift card purchases.
That said, there are some caveats. Some retailers impose a dollar limit on credit card purchases. Additionally, certain stores will only accept cash or debit cards for certain types of gift cards, like store-specific cards.
It is your responsibility to read all of the terms and conditions associated with each gift card before purchasing. That way, you know what you are getting into and can avoid any potential problems.
Benefits of Buying Gift Cards with Credit Cards
There are many benefits to using a credit card to purchase gift cards. Here are just a few:
Convenience – Credit card purchases are generally more convenient than cash or debit card purchases. It takes a few seconds to complete the payment, and you can be on your way.
Rewards – If you have a rewards credit card, you can rack up points, deals and other bonuses for every purchase you make.
Protection – If a purchase comes up short or goes wrong, you can receive additional protection from your credit card company.
Flexible Payment Options – Credit cards offer a wide array of payment options – from one-time, full payment purchases to flexible payment plans.
Safer Transactions – Credit card transactions are much more secure than cash or debit card transactions. Credit card companies use the latest encryption and fraud detection technologies to make sure your money is safe.
Issues to Consider
Before you decide to purchase a gift card with a credit card, there are a few points to keep in mind.
Fees – Many gifting companies charge additional fees for credit card purchases. Do your research ahead of time to make sure you know exactly what you are getting into.
Interest Rates – Interest rates can vary greatly from one credit card to another. Make sure you know what kind of APR (annual percentage rate) you will be paying before you purchase a gift card.
Loss/Theft of Cards – If you or the recipient misplaces the gift card or it is stolen, you may not be able to get the money back. Make sure you make the recipient aware of any terms associated with the card should it go missing.
Using a credit card to purchase a gift card is definitely an option, but it is important to read the terms and conditions associated with each card before making a purchase. Make sure you know what kind of fees and interest rates you will be facing – and make sure the recipient is aware of any special terms in case of loss or theft.
If you take these considerations into account, then using a credit card to buy a gift card can be an easy and convenient way to show someone you care.
