Where Can I Sell a Walmart Gift Card? Unlock Your Unwanted Gift Value!
So, you’ve got a Walmart gift card burning a hole in your virtual pocket, and those flat-screen dreams you had just aren’t materializing (at least not at Walmart). Fear not, friend! You’re not doomed to buy endless rolls of paper towels. The good news is, you absolutely can sell your Walmart gift card and turn it into cold, hard cash (or at least a digital equivalent thereof). Let’s dive into the best places to offload that plastic rectangle and get some value back. The main places where you can sell your Walmart gift card include online gift card marketplaces, gift card kiosks, and sometimes directly back to Walmart (though usually with conditions).
Options for Selling Your Walmart Gift Card
There are several avenues you can explore, each with its own pros and cons:
Online Gift Card Marketplaces: The Digital Pawn Shop
This is often the most convenient and potentially lucrative option. Think of these sites as eBay, but specifically for gift cards.
- Raise: Raise is a well-established platform that allows you to list your gift card for sale at a price you determine (within their guidelines, of course). They handle the transaction and ensure authenticity. They take a percentage of the sale as their fee, which you’ll want to factor into your pricing.
- CardCash: CardCash offers a similar service to Raise, allowing you to sell or trade your gift card. They provide instant offers based on the card’s balance and demand. You can choose to accept their offer immediately or list your card for a potentially higher price.
- GiftCards.com: While primarily known for selling gift cards, GiftCards.com also offers a buyback program. Like CardCash, they provide instant offers.
- Prepaid2Cash: This platform is more specialized, focusing on a broader range of prepaid cards, including gift cards. They typically offer quicker payouts.
- ClipKard: Similar to others listed above, ClipKard provides an avenue to convert your unused gift cards into cash.
Key Considerations for Online Marketplaces:
- Fees: Each platform charges a fee, which varies. Compare fees before listing.
- Payout Methods: Explore how you’ll receive your money (PayPal, check, etc.) and associated fees.
- Processing Time: Some platforms offer instant payouts, while others take several days.
- Trustworthiness: Research reviews of the platform before entrusting them with your gift card information.
- Card Verification: Be prepared to provide information to verify the card’s balance and authenticity.
Gift Card Kiosks: The Automated Option
Located in some supermarkets and shopping malls, gift card kiosks provide a quick and relatively anonymous way to sell your card.
- How They Work: You insert your card into the kiosk, it verifies the balance, and offers you a cash amount. If you accept, you receive cash on the spot.
- The Catch: Kiosks typically offer significantly lower prices than online marketplaces. Convenience comes at a cost.
- Example Companies: Coinstar Exchange kiosks are a common example.
Key Considerations for Kiosks:
- Lower Offers: Be prepared for a substantial discount on the card’s value.
- Convenience: The primary benefit is the speed and ease of the transaction.
- Location: Kiosks are not always readily accessible.
Selling Directly Back to Walmart: The Rare Bird
While not always guaranteed, Walmart may repurchase your gift card under specific circumstances. This option is less common than the others.
- Conditions: Typically, Walmart will only repurchase a gift card if it’s damaged or if there’s an issue with the balance. They may require proof of purchase.
- Customer Service: Your best bet is to contact Walmart’s customer service department to inquire about their gift card repurchase policy.
Key Considerations for Selling to Walmart:
- Uncertainty: Repurchasing is not a standard policy.
- Specific Circumstances: Usually requires a problem with the card.
- Customer Service Interaction: You’ll need to contact Walmart directly.
Local Classifieds and Social Media: The Risky Route
While tempting, selling gift cards on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace carries significant risk.
- Scams: These platforms are rife with scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting sellers.
- Lack of Protection: You have no guarantee of payment or recourse if scammed.
- Proceed with Extreme Caution: If you choose this route, meet in a public place, accept cash only, and verify the buyer’s identity.
Key Considerations for Classifieds:
- High Risk of Scams: Exercise extreme caution.
- No Guarantees: No protection against fraud.
- Not Recommended: Unless you know and trust the buyer.
Donation: The Heartfelt Choice
If you’re feeling generous, consider donating your Walmart gift card to a charity.
- Tax Deduction: You may be able to claim a tax deduction for the donation. Consult with a tax professional.
- Finding a Charity: Many charities accept gift card donations. Research reputable organizations.
Key Considerations for Donation:
- Altruistic Option: A charitable act.
- Potential Tax Benefits: Consult a tax advisor.
Choosing the Right Option: A Summary
Option | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
————————– | ——————————————————- | ——————————————————————– |
Online Marketplaces | Higher prices, convenience, wider reach | Fees, processing time, potential for fraud |
Gift Card Kiosks | Instant cash, convenience | Lower prices |
Selling to Walmart | Potential for repurchase in specific cases | Not guaranteed, requires specific circumstances |
Local Classifieds/Social Media | Potentially higher prices | High risk of scams, no protection |
Donation | Charitable act, potential tax deduction | No monetary return |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much can I realistically expect to get for my Walmart gift card?
Generally, expect to receive 70-90% of the card’s face value when selling it online. Kiosks will likely offer even less, potentially around 50-70%. The exact percentage depends on the card’s balance, demand, and the platform’s fees.
2. What information do I need to sell my Walmart gift card?
You’ll typically need the gift card number and the PIN (if applicable). Some platforms may also require you to verify your identity with a government-issued ID.
3. Are there any restrictions on the type of Walmart gift cards I can sell?
Most platforms accept both physical and electronic Walmart gift cards. However, some may have restrictions on specific types of cards, such as promotional cards or cards with expiration dates.
4. How long does it take to get paid after selling my Walmart gift card?
Payout times vary depending on the platform. Some offer instant payouts (often via PayPal), while others may take 2-7 business days to process the payment.
5. What if my Walmart gift card is partially used?
Most online marketplaces and kiosks accept partially used gift cards. The offer will be based on the remaining balance on the card.
6. How can I check the balance on my Walmart gift card?
You can check the balance on your Walmart gift card online at the Walmart website or by calling Walmart’s customer service number. You can also check it at any Walmart store location.
7. Is it safe to sell my gift card online?
Selling your gift card online can be safe, but it’s crucial to choose a reputable platform and take precautions to protect yourself from scams. Research the platform, read reviews, and never share your gift card information with untrusted individuals.
8. What happens if the buyer claims the gift card is invalid after I sell it?
Reputable platforms have buyer protection policies in place to handle disputes. They will typically investigate the issue and may require proof that the card was valid at the time of sale.
9. Can I sell a gift card that has expired?
Expired gift cards are generally not accepted by online marketplaces or kiosks. However, it’s worth contacting the gift card issuer (Walmart in this case) to see if they will reinstate the card or offer a replacement.
10. Are there any alternatives to selling my Walmart gift card?
Yes! Consider regifting it to someone who would appreciate it, trading it with a friend for something you want, or using it to purchase essentials you need at Walmart.
11. What is the difference between selling on a marketplace and selling directly to a buyback service?
Marketplaces let you list your card at your desired price, potentially earning more, but it might take longer to sell. Buyback services offer an instant, but usually lower, price for your card.
12. What if I lose my physical Walmart gift card?
If you lose your physical Walmart gift card, report it to Walmart immediately. They may be able to cancel the card and issue a replacement, depending on their policies and if you have proof of purchase. Lost or stolen e-gift cards are also generally replaceable if you have the original email.
By weighing your options and understanding the risks and rewards associated with each method, you can confidently turn your unwanted Walmart gift card into cash and put it towards something you truly desire. Happy selling!
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