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Turning Plastic into Cash: The Definitive Guide to Selling Your Walmart Gift Card

So, you’ve got a Walmart gift card burning a hole in your pocket, but you’d rather have cash? You’re not alone. Plenty of people find themselves in this situation. The good news is that converting that plastic into cold, hard cash is easier than you might think.

Where can you sell a Walmart gift card? You have several options, ranging from online marketplaces and dedicated gift card exchange sites to local brick-and-mortar stores. Some options offer faster payouts, while others may provide better rates. Understanding the landscape is key to maximizing your return.

Understanding Your Options: A Breakdown of Where to Sell

Here’s a detailed look at where you can offload that Walmart gift card:

1. Online Gift Card Exchange Marketplaces

These websites are the most common and often the most convenient way to sell your Walmart gift card. They act as intermediaries, connecting you with buyers who are looking for discounted gift cards. Here are a few of the top contenders:

Raise: Raise is a well-established platform that allows you to list your Walmart gift card for sale. You set the price (within their guidelines, of course) and they handle the transaction. They take a commission fee on the sale, but the user-friendly interface and large customer base can make it worthwhile.
CardCash: CardCash buys gift cards directly from you. You enter the card details and they give you an offer. If you accept, they’ll process the payment. This is generally faster than selling on a marketplace, but the offer may be lower.
GiftCash: Similar to CardCash, GiftCash provides instant offers for your Walmart gift cards. They boast competitive rates and fast payouts, making them a solid option for a quick sale.
Cardpool: Cardpool, owned by Kroger, also buys gift cards outright. They offer both online and physical locations, providing some flexibility in how you sell. They’re known for their secure transactions and reliable service.

2. Direct Sale to Online Companies

Some companies specialize in buying gift cards in bulk for various purposes, such as employee rewards or promotional campaigns. These are similar to CardCash and GiftCash but may have specific requirements. Look for reputable companies specializing in the direct purchase of gift cards, and be sure to verify their legitimacy before sharing your card details.

3. Local Brick-and-Mortar Options

While online platforms dominate the gift card resale market, a few physical locations might be an option, albeit often less lucrative:

Pawn Shops: Pawn shops might accept Walmart gift cards, but be prepared for a significantly lower offer. They typically aim to resell the card for a profit, so they’ll offer a steep discount.
Local Businesses: Some local businesses might be willing to buy your Walmart gift card, especially if they frequently shop at Walmart. This can be a less formal transaction, but it’s worth exploring if you have a trusted relationship with a local merchant.

4. Classified Ads and Social Media

Facebook Marketplace: While riskier, you can list your Walmart gift card for sale on Facebook Marketplace. Be extremely cautious and only deal with local buyers in person in a safe, public location.
Craigslist: Similar to Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist allows you to post classified ads. Exercise extreme caution and never ship the gift card before receiving payment.
Social Media Groups: Join local buy/sell/trade groups on social media platforms and see if anyone is interested in purchasing your Walmart gift card. Again, prioritize safety and in-person transactions.

5. Sell to Friends or Family

This is often the simplest and safest option. If you know someone who frequents Walmart, offer them the card at a slight discount. This avoids fees and risks associated with online marketplaces.

Choosing the Right Option: Factors to Consider

Before selling your Walmart gift card, consider these key factors:

The Gift Card Balance: Accurately determine the remaining balance on the card. This is crucial for getting an accurate offer and avoiding disputes.
Payout Speed: How quickly do you need the cash? Some platforms offer immediate payouts, while others may take several days.
Seller Fees: Be aware of any fees associated with selling your gift card. These fees can significantly impact your net profit.
Reputation and Security: Choose reputable platforms with secure payment processing and positive reviews. Read reviews and check their security measures to ensure your data is protected.
Discount Rate: Understand that you won’t get the full face value of the gift card. Expect a discount, and compare offers from different platforms to get the best rate.

Maximizing Your Return: Tips for Selling Your Gift Card

Check the Balance Carefully: Double-check the balance on the card before listing it for sale. This avoids misunderstandings and potential disputes.
Compare Offers: Don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Shop around and compare rates from different platforms.
Consider the Season: Gift cards are often more in demand during holidays and special occasions. You might be able to get a better price if you sell during these times.
Take Clear Photos: If you’re selling on a marketplace, take clear and well-lit photos of the gift card. This helps build trust with potential buyers.
Respond Promptly: Respond quickly to inquiries from potential buyers. This shows that you’re a serious seller and can help close the deal faster.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. How do I check the balance on my Walmart gift card?

You can check your Walmart gift card balance online on the Walmart website, by calling the customer service number on the back of the card, or by visiting any Walmart store.

2. What information do I need to sell my Walmart gift card online?

You typically need the gift card number and the PIN (if applicable). Some platforms may also require you to create an account and verify your identity.

3. How much can I expect to get for my Walmart gift card?

You can typically expect to receive between 70% to 90% of the face value of the card, depending on the platform, demand, and card balance.

4. Are there any fees associated with selling a gift card?

Yes, most platforms charge a fee, either as a commission on the sale or as a deduction from the offer they provide. Be sure to factor these fees into your calculations.

5. Is it safe to sell my Walmart gift card online?

Selling online can be safe if you use reputable platforms with secure payment processing. Always read reviews and check the platform’s security measures before sharing your card details.

6. How long does it take to get paid after selling my Walmart gift card?

Payout times vary depending on the platform. Some offer immediate payouts, while others may take several business days. Check the platform’s payment policies before selling.

7. Can I sell a partially used Walmart gift card?

Yes, you can sell a partially used Walmart gift card, as long as you know the remaining balance and the platform accepts cards with partial balances.

8. What happens if the gift card is not valid?

If the gift card is not valid, the sale will likely be canceled. Some platforms may charge a fee for invalid cards, so it’s important to verify the balance before selling.

9. Can I sell a physical or eGift card?

Most platforms accept both physical and eGift cards. However, some may have specific requirements for eGift cards, such as requiring a screenshot of the card.

10. What are the risks of selling on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist?

The main risks are fraud and scams. Be extremely cautious and only deal with local buyers in person in a safe, public location. Never ship the gift card before receiving payment.

11. Can I return a Walmart gift card to Walmart for cash?

No, Walmart generally does not allow you to return a gift card for cash unless required by law in certain states with very low balances.

12. What if my Walmart gift card is lost or stolen?

If your Walmart gift card is lost or stolen, contact Walmart customer service immediately. They may be able to cancel the card and issue a replacement, but this depends on whether you have the original purchase receipt or card number.

By understanding your options and taking the necessary precautions, you can confidently turn that Walmart gift card into the cash you need. Happy selling!