Can You Buy Gift Cards with a Credit Card and What to Expect

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You can buy gift cards with a credit card, but it's essential to understand the process and potential implications. Some retailers may charge a fee for purchasing gift cards with a credit card.

Most credit card issuers consider gift card purchases as cash advances, which can lead to higher interest rates and fees. This is because gift cards are essentially prepaid debit cards.

If you're not careful, you might end up paying more in interest and fees than the actual value of the gift card. It's crucial to review your credit card agreement and understand the terms before making a purchase.

Why Should You?

You should buy gift cards with a credit card because it's a great way to earn rewards and cash back on your purchase. There are many reasons to do so.

One of the main reasons is that you can earn points or miles that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or other rewards. You can also earn cash back, which can be a nice bonus.

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Using a credit card to buy gift cards can also help you build credit if you pay your balance in full each month. This is a great way to establish a positive credit history.

You can buy gift cards with a credit card from a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Just be sure to check the terms and conditions before making a purchase.

How to Buy Gift Cards with Credit Cards

You can buy gift cards with a credit card online or in-store, and most major retailers accept credit cards for this type of transaction. This includes department stores, electronics stores, and clothing outlets.

Buying a gift card with a credit card provides a payment method without the need for cash and checks, making it a convenient option. You can quickly complete transactions and earn rewards on your credit card.

However, it's essential to note that some credit card issuers may classify gift card purchases as cash advances, which can incur additional fees and higher interest rates.

Online

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You can buy gift cards online with a credit card, and most major retailers offer their own gift cards for purchase. This includes department stores, electronics stores, and clothing outlets.

Some retailers may provide the option to receive a plastic gift card in the mail for online purchases. This can be a convenient way to get the gift card you want.

Just because you buy a gift card online doesn't mean it will be delivered that way. The merchant might give you the option to receive a plastic card in the mail.

Buying gift cards online with a credit card is a quick and easy process, allowing you to complete transactions without the need for cash or checks.

Purchasing as Cash Advance

Most gift card purchases made with a credit card are treated as regular purchases, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your credit card issuer to understand how they handle these transactions.

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Some credit card issuers may classify certain transactions, including gift card purchases, as cash advances if they deem them to be cash equivalents.

This classification can depend on factors such as where the gift card is purchased, the merchant category code (MCC) associated with the transaction, and the issuer's policies.

Cash advances typically incur additional fees and may be subject to higher interest rates than regular purchases.

In general, credit card issuers usually charge a fee for cash advances along with a different annual percentage rate (APR).

What Type of

If you're looking to buy gift cards with your credit card, you'll want to consider what type of gift card to purchase. Retail stores like department stores, electronics stores, and clothing outlets usually offer their own gift cards, which can be purchased with a credit card.

You can earn rewards on your credit card while buying a versatile gift or budgeting tool. Some stores sell their own gift cards, which are usually valid at the retail store and its partners, while credit card networks like Visa and Mastercard offer generic gift cards that can be used at any seller that accepts cards in that network.

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Assorted Credit and Gift Cards
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If you're looking for a gift card with no fees, that doesn't expire, and can be used both in person and online, you're in luck. Both store gift cards and generic gift cards can meet these criteria, but whether you can use a credit card depends on your card issuer and the merchant.

Here are some common types of gift cards to consider:

  1. Retail gift cards: These are specific to particular retail stores, allowing recipients to make purchases at those stores.
  2. Restaurant gift cards: These allow recipients to dine out or order food from specific restaurants.
  3. General-purpose gift cards: These, often branded with major credit card logos like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, can be used at multiple retailers and locations where credit cards are accepted.
  4. Entertainment gift cards: These may offer access to various forms of entertainment, such as movie theaters, streaming services, or online gaming platforms.
  5. Travel gift cards: These can be used for travel-related expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars, or vacation packages.
  6. Experience gift cards: These provide recipients with opportunities to enjoy specific activities or experiences, such as spa treatments, cooking classes, adventure tours, or concert tickets.
  7. Digital gift cards: These are sent electronically via email or mobile app, allowing for quick and convenient delivery.
  8. Prepaid gift cards: These have a specific monetary value loaded onto them in advance, and recipients can use them until the balance is depleted.

Ultimately, the best type of gift card will depend on your recipient's preferences and needs. Consider what type of gift card will bring them the most joy or convenience.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Purchasing gift cards with a credit card can be convenient, but it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks.

You may not earn rewards on gift card purchases, and some credit cards exclude them from earning rewards altogether. If gift cards aren't listed as an eligible purchase in your cardholder agreement, then you won't earn rewards when buying gift cards with your credit card.

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Be aware that some retailers have a set maximum number of gift cards you're allowed to purchase with a credit card, so it's best to check with the retailer beforehand.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Interest charges: If you don't pay off the balance on your credit card in full by the due date, you incur interest charges on the amount you borrowed.
  • Cash advance fees: Some credit card issuers may classify gift card purchases as cash advances rather than regular purchases.
  • No introductory offers: Credit card companies often offer introductory bonuses, such as 0% APR or bonus rewards, for new cardholders.
  • Limited acceptance: Some small businesses or independent retailers may only accept cash or debit cards.
  • Risk of overspending: Using a credit card can make it easier to overspend, especially when purchasing gift cards for multiple people.
  • Potential for fraud: Credit card transactions, including gift card purchases, are susceptible to fraud and unauthorized charges.
  • Gift card restrictions: Some retailers may impose restrictions or limitations on using gift cards purchased with a credit card.

Buying a large amount of gift cards using your credit card could significantly impact your credit utilization ratio, which can negatively affect your credit score if you don't pay off the balance immediately.

Banks and Issuers

Some banks and credit card issuers offer gift cards that can be used almost anywhere. These cards often come with promotional benefits, such as reduced fees or bonus rewards points.

You can purchase these gift cards from various sources, including online and in-store options. This flexibility makes them a great choice for those who want to earn rewards like points and cashback.

Banks and credit card issuers may also offer specific retailer gift cards, which can be a good option if you have a particular store in mind. Just be aware of potential fees associated with these cards.

Gift cards purchased with a credit card can sometimes include rewards like points and cashback, making them a financially savvy choice.

Potential Drawbacks

A blank card resting on elegant pinstripe fabric in a gift box.
Credit: pexels.com, A blank card resting on elegant pinstripe fabric in a gift box.

Buying gift cards with a credit card may not be as straightforward as you think. Some credit cards exclude gift cards and "cash equivalents" from earning rewards, so you won't earn rewards on gift card purchases if your cardholder agreement doesn't list them as eligible purchases.

You may also be limited in the number of gift cards you can purchase with a credit card. Retailers often have a set maximum number, so it's a good idea to check with the retailer beforehand.

Paying with a credit card can also mean paying interest charges if you end up carrying a balance on your card. This can add to the cost of purchasing gift cards, especially if you carry a balance from month to month.

Here are some potential drawbacks to consider:

  • Interest charges
  • Cash advance fees
  • No introductory offers
  • Limited acceptance
  • Risk of overspending
  • Potential for fraud
  • Gift card restrictions

Purchasing a large amount of gift cards using your credit card can significantly impact your credit utilization ratio, which can negatively affect your credit score if you don't pay off the balance immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a prepaid Visa card with a credit card?

Yes, most retailers allow credit card purchases for prepaid Visa gift cards, but check with your credit card issuer for potential fees or restrictions.

Can you buy gift cards with a Walmart credit card?

Yes, you can purchase Visa gift cards with a Walmart Credit Card in-store and online, earning 2% rewards on all purchases.

Can I purchase a MasterCard gift card with a credit card?

No, you cannot purchase a MasterCard gift card with a credit card. Only cash or debit card payments are accepted for these types of cards.

Harold Raynor

Writer

Harold Raynor is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for sharing knowledge with others. With a background in business and finance, he brings a unique perspective to his writing, tackling complex topics with clarity and ease. Harold's writing portfolio spans a range of article categories, including angel investing, angel investors, and the Los Angeles venture capital scene.

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