Guide to the Best Places to Exchange Your Unused Gift Cards for Cash. Do you have unused gift cards? Have you ever found yourself holding onto a gift card for a store you don't shop at, wondering what to do with it? You can exchange them for cash at these locations. Instead of letting it go to waste, there are numerous ways to convert that gift card into cash or even trade it for something more useful. According to a Bankrate survey, Americans collectively have nearly $15 billion in unused gift cards, representing a significant amount of money just sitting idle. If you find yourself in this situation, you’re in luck. There are various places and platforms, both online and offline, where you can sell your unused gift cards and get cash in return. This comprehensive guide will cover the best places to exchange your unused gift cards for cash, including online platforms, in-store kiosks, and local stores that offer gift card exchanges. We'll also provide insights into the process and what to expect in terms of returns when you trade in your gift cards.

What Are Gift Card Exchange Kiosks?

Gift card exchange kiosks are self-service machines where users can trade their unused or partially used gift cards for cash. They resemble ATMs or DVD rental machines and can typically be found in grocery stores, drugstores, and large retail chains such as Walmart and Target. These kiosks offer convenience for those who prefer in-person transactions, allowing customers to walk away with a cash voucher that can be redeemed at the store's customer service desk.

How Do Gift Card Exchange Kiosks Work?

To use a gift card exchange kiosk, follow these steps:

1. Locate a kiosk near you (details on where to find them will be discussed later).
2. Insert your gift card information, including the card number and PIN, into the machine.
3. The kiosk will check the balance and present an offer to buy your gift card for a percentage of its remaining value.
4. If you accept the offer, the kiosk will print out a cash voucher.
5. Take the voucher to the store’s customer service desk to receive your cash.

What Percentage of Value Can You Expect?

When exchanging a gift card, you typically won't get 100% of its value back in cash. The rate offered varies depending on the platform or kiosk, but you can usually expect to receive between 60-80% of the card's value. In some cases, especially with high-demand brands, you might get as much as 90% of the card’s worth.

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Online Gift Card Exchange Kiosks and Platforms

If visiting a physical kiosk isn’t convenient, you can also opt to sell your gift cards online. Several reputable platforms allow you to list your cards for sale, sometimes enabling you to set your price. Below are some of the top online platforms where you can exchange your unused gift cards for cash.

1. EJ Gift Cards

EJ Gift Cards is a well-known online platform for selling gift cards. It allows users to quickly sell their cards and receive payments within three business days through PayPal. While it's not instant cash, the process is hassle-free and can be done entirely from the comfort of your home. EJ Gift Cards has a solid reputation with a 4.1 rating on Trustpilot, based on over 1,600 reviews.

Pros:

• Fast transactions
• Trusted platform
• Payments via PayPal

Cons:

• Not instant cash

2. Raise

Raise offers a unique approach, allowing users to set their own price for the gift cards they wish to sell. This can sometimes result in a higher return, especially for high-demand cards. Payments are available through direct deposit, PayPal, or check. However, the downside is that you may have to wait for a buyer to accept your offer, especially if your asking price is high.

Pros:

• Potential to earn more than other platforms
• Multiple payment options

Cons:

• Can take time to find a buyer

3. CardCash

CardCash is a platform that partners with big-name brands like Amazon, Starbucks, and Walmart to facilitate gift card sales. The platform is easy to use: simply enter your gift card details to receive an offer, and if you accept, you can choose to get paid via ACH, PayPal, or check.

Pros:

• Trusted brand partnerships
• Easy-to-use platform

Cons:

• Payments may take a few days

4. GiftCash

GiftCash offers one of the highest returns for unused gift cards, giving up to 92% of the card’s value. One notable feature is that GiftCash also accepts payments through cryptocurrency, making it a good option for those who prefer digital currencies. However, the platform only accepts gift cards with a value of $25 or more.

Pros:

• High payout rates
• Payments in cryptocurrency

Cons:

• Minimum card value of $25

5. ClipKard

ClipKard specializes in physical gift card exchanges. Once you enter your card information and accept the offer, you'll need to mail the physical card to the platform before receiving payment. ClipKard also has a reward system that allows you to accumulate points, which can be used to purchase other gift cards.

Pros:

• Rewards system
• Multiple payment options

Cons:

• Requires shipping physical cards

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Physical Locations to Exchange Gift Cards

If you prefer in-person transactions and want instant cash, many physical locations, including retail stores and grocery chains, have gift card exchange kiosks or in-store services that allow you to swap your gift card for cash or other gift cards.

1. Walmart

Walmart offers a convenient way to exchange gift cards from over 200 brands, including restaurants, gas stations, and gaming platforms. In partnership with CardCash, Walmart makes it easy to swap gift cards at one of their in-store kiosks. For example, a $10 gift card may get you around $8 in cash.

Pros:

• Convenient locations
• Trusted brand

Cons:

• May not offer the highest payout

2. Kroger

Kroger provides both online and in-store gift card exchanges. Using the Kroger Store Locator, you can find a location near you. The retailer also allows customers to use their existing gift cards to purchase new ones from a different brand, making it a versatile option.

Pros:

• Multiple exchange options
• Both online and in-store services

Cons:

• Exchange rates may vary

3. Target

Target has over 100 participating stores and restaurants where you can exchange gift cards. You can visit your nearest Target to see if they offer a Trade-in Program, which allows you to redeem your gift card at the store's Electronics Department.

Pros:

• No minimum gift card value required
• Wide range of gift cards accepted

Cons:

• Not all locations may offer the service

4. Safeway

Safeway is another retail chain where you can exchange your gift cards. For a $10 gift card, you can expect to receive about $7.50 to $8.00 in cash. Check with your local Safeway to confirm the availability of gift card exchange kiosks.

Pros:

• Many physical locations
• Simple process

Cons:

• Limited to certain brands

5. GiftCardBin

GiftCardBin operates over 600 partner locations across the U.S. and offers an easy way to exchange gift cards for instant cash. If you can't visit a physical location, you also have the option of conducting the transaction via text message, though this process can be slower.

Pros:

• Many locations
• Easy process via text

Cons:

• Text-based transactions can be slow

6. Walgreens

Walgreens operates gift card exchanges in certain states, where customers can receive cash for cards with low balances. In California, for example, gift cards with balances under $10 can be redeemed for cash. Use the Walgreens Store Locator to find a participating location near you.

Pros:

• Available in multiple states
• Instant cash for low-balance cards

Cons:

• Limited state availability

7. CVS

CVS allows customers to exchange unused gift cards for cash. It's important to compare their rates with other kiosks to ensure you're getting the best value. CVS locations are widely available, making it a convenient option.

Pros:

• Convenient locations
• Simple process

Cons:

• May not offer the highest return

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Additional Tips for Selling Unused Gift Cards

1. Check Expiration Dates

Always verify if your gift card has an expiration date before attempting to sell it. While most gift cards no longer expire, some may have terms that limit their usability after a certain period.

2. Compare Exchange Rates

Different platforms and kiosks offer varying rates for gift cards. Take the time to compare offers to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.

3. Consider Trading for Another Gift Card

If cash isn't necessary, some platforms allow you to trade your gift card for another card of equal or greater value. This option is ideal if you’d like to shop at a different store.

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Conclusion: Maximize the Value of Your Unused Gift Cards

Unused gift cards don’t have to go to waste. With so many options available for exchanging gift cards for cash, you can quickly turn your unused cards into money or swap them for something more useful. Whether you choose to sell your card online, use a physical kiosk, or visit a store like Walmart or Target, you have plenty of ways to unlock the value of your gift cards.

By comparing rates and understanding the process, you can ensure that you're getting the best deal possible for your gift cards. So, the next time you find yourself holding onto an unused gift card, consider cashing it in and putting that money to good use.