Applying an Amazon gift card to your account takes less than a minute. If you've received a physical card or a digital code, you don't need to wait until checkout to add the funds. You can load the balance directly to your profile so it's ready for your next purchase.
This guide walks you through the exact redemption steps, explains where to find your claim code, and covers what to do if your code won't work.
Where to Find Your Claim Code
Before you can add funds, you need to locate your claim code. The format depends on how you received the gift card:
- Physical Cards: Scratch off or gently peel the protective coating on the back of the card to reveal the 14-character claim code. Don't scratch too hard, or you might make the numbers unreadable.
- Digital Email Gifts: Open the email from Amazon or the sender. Look for a button that says Apply to your account or locate the alphanumeric code listed directly in the message body.
- Receipts from Retail Stores: If you bought a card at a grocery store or pharmacy, the claim code is usually printed near the bottom of the paper receipt.
Amazon claim codes always consist of a combination of letters and numbers, typically formatted in groups like ABCD-EFGHJK-MNPQ. More reporting by Bloomberg explores related perspectives on this issue.
How to Redeem Your Amazon Gift Card
You can add funds using either a web browser or the Amazon mobile app. The steps are quick and update your balance immediately.
Redeeming on a Desktop Browser
- Go to the official Amazon Gift Card Balance page and log in to your account.
- Click the yellow Apply to Your Balance button.
- Type or paste your 14-character claim code into the input box. Double-check that you haven't added any accidental spaces.
- Click Apply to Your Balance. The funds will instantly appear in your account.
Redeeming on the Amazon Mobile App
- Open the Amazon app on your phone and tap the profile icon at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down to find the Your Account menu and tap Manage gift card balance.
- Tap Redeem another gift card.
- Type the claim code or tap the camera icon to use your phone's camera to scan the code barcode.
- Tap Apply to your Balance.
How Amazon Gift Card Balances Work
Once you redeem a code, the money moves from the card into your Amazon account balance. You don't have to spend it all at once, and it never expires.
When you buy items on Amazon, the checkout system automatically applies your available gift card balance before charging your backup credit or debit card. If your order total is higher than your gift card balance, Amazon charges the remaining difference to your default payment method. If your order total is lower, the leftover funds stay in your account for future purchases.
Common Redemption Errors and Fixes
If you run into an error message while trying to add a code, don't panic. Most issues fall into a few common categories:
- Invalid Character Confusion: People often mix up the letter "O" with the number "0", or the letter "I" with the number "1". If your code fails, try swapping those characters.
- Already Redeemed: If you or someone else with access to your household already scanned the code, Amazon will tell you the funds are already applied. Check your gift card activity page to see your recent balance history.
- Regional Mismatch: Amazon gift cards are locked to the specific country store where they were purchased. A card bought on Amazon.com (United States) cannot be redeemed on Amazon.ca (Canada) or Amazon.co.uk (United Kingdom). Make sure you're using the correct regional marketplace.
- Incorrect Formatting: You don't need to type the dashes when entering your code, but if you copy and paste the entire string, ensure you haven't grabbed trailing spaces at the beginning or end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my Amazon gift card balance to my bank account?
No. Once you redeem a gift card code, the funds are locked inside your Amazon account balance. You can only use them to purchase eligible physical and digital goods sold on Amazon.
Do Amazon gift cards expire?
No. Gift cards purchased on or after October 1, 2022, do not have an expiration date. Your balance stays in your account until you spend it.
Can I use an Amazon gift card to buy other gift cards?
Generally, no. Amazon restricts users from using existing gift card balances to purchase third-party gift cards, restaurant cards, or digital currency cards.
What should I do if my physical card code is damaged?
If you accidentally scratched off part of your claim code while opening a physical card, you'll need to contact Amazon Customer Service. Provide them with a photo of the front and back of the card, along with the store purchase receipt, and support agents can help verify and apply the balance manually.
