Can You Buy a Prepaid Debit Card With a Gift Card?

Have you ever wondered if you could use a gift card to buy a prepaid debit card? We’ve got you covered!

Yes, you can buy a prepaid debit card with a gift card at certain retailers, although restrictions and limitations may apply. The process may vary depending on the store and the type of gift card being used.

Continue reading to learn which retailers support this transaction, how to make the purchase, and what alternative methods are available to buy prepaid debit cards.

Can You Purchase Prepaid Debit Cards With Gift Cards?

While the answer to this question is yes, there are more details to consider. 

Retailers may have varying policies, and the type of gift card can also impact your ability to use it for purchasing a prepaid debit card. It’s crucial to be aware of any restrictions and limitations associated with the store and the gift card itself.

Retailers Supporting Gift Card Purchases for Prepaid Debit Cards

Although policies can change and vary by location, some major retailers that may allow you to purchase prepaid debit cards with gift cards include:

1. Walmart. Walmart is known for its lenient policies and has been reported to accept their own branded gift cards for purchasing prepaid debit cards. However, it’s essential to verify this with your local Walmart store.
2. Target. May allow you to use their gift cards for purchasing prepaid debit cards, but this is subject to change and store discretion. Check with a store associate or the customer service desk before attempting to make a purchase.
3. Walgreens. Walgreens may also allow you to use their gift cards for purchasing prepaid debit cards, but it’s important to check with your local Walgreens store regarding their policies before attempting to make a purchase.
4. Grocery stores. Some regional grocery store chains, like Kroger or Safeway, may allow the use of their gift cards to purchase prepaid debit cards. Policies may vary across different store locations, so it’s best to confirm with the customer service desk before making a transaction.

Keep in mind that these retailers might only accept their own branded gift cards for such purchases, while others may allow third-party gift cards. Always inquire with the specific retailer before attempting to make a transaction.

How to Buy a Prepaid Debit Card With a Gift Card?

If you’ve confirmed that a retailer allows the use of gift cards to purchase prepaid debit cards, follow these steps:

1. Choose a prepaid debit card: Visit the gift card or financial services section of the store and select the prepaid debit card that best suits your needs, keeping in mind that you may also have the option to buy a gift card with a debit card.
2. Check the gift card balance: Ensure you have enough balance on the gift card to cover the cost of the prepaid debit card and any associated fees.
3. Make the purchase: Take the prepaid debit card and your gift card to the cashier or customer service desk. Inform the associate that you’d like to use your gift card to purchase the prepaid debit card.
4. Complete the transaction: The associate will likely need to confirm the gift card balance and may need to follow specific procedures to process the transaction. Once everything is verified, the cashier will complete the sale and provide you with a receipt.

Remember, always confirm with the retailer first, as policies may vary. After the purchase, make sure to check if your debit card is working.

Types of Prepaid Debit Cards Available at Retailers

Retailers often sell a variety of prepaid debit cards that are not limited to their own branded gift cards or store-specific discount cards. 

These prepaid debit cards are typically issued by major payment networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express and can be used for purchases anywhere these cards are accepted. Prepaid debit cards available at retailers might include:

• General-purpose reloadable (GPR) cards. These prepaid debit cards can be reloaded with funds and used for everyday purchases, bill payments, and even ATM withdrawals. Examples include the Walmart MoneyCard, Green Dot Prepaid Visa Card, or Netspend Prepaid Mastercard.
• Travel cards. These are prepaid cards specifically designed for use while traveling, offering benefits like no foreign transaction fees and built-in currency conversion. Examples include the AAA MemberPay Visa Prepaid Card or the Travelex Money Card.
• Prepaid cards for teens or students. These cards are designed for young adults, with features like parental controls, spending limits, and educational resources. Examples include the FamZoo Prepaid Card, the Current Debit Card, or the Greenlight Debit Card for Kids.
• Payroll cards. Some employers offer payroll cards as an alternative to direct deposit or paper checks for employees who don’t have a bank account. These cards function like a regular debit card and can be used for purchases, bill payments, and ATM withdrawals.
• Gift cards with a major payment network logo. These cards are not reloadable but can be used for purchases anywhere the payment network (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) is accepted, including at popular coffee chains like Starbucks. They differ from store-specific gift cards in that they provide more flexibility in terms of where they can be used.

While banks also offer prepaid debit cards, the advantage of purchasing from a retailer is the convenience and accessibility, just as when you buy a gift card with a debit card. Retailers typically have a wide selection of prepaid debit cards with various features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences.

Are There Restrictions or Limitations on Gift Card Usage?

Using gift cards to purchase prepaid debit cards may come with some limitations. These can vary depending on the retailer and the type of gift card. 

For instance, a retailer might only allow their own branded gift cards to be used for such purchases, or they may impose minimum and maximum amounts that can be applied toward the purchase. 

Additionally, activation fees or service charges may apply, which will be deducted from the gift card balance. 

Always review the terms and conditions associated with the gift card and consult the retailer’s customer service to avoid any complications.

Alternative Methods to Purchase Prepaid Debit Cards

If you prefer not to use a gift card or if it’s not an option, there are other ways to purchase prepaid debit cards:

Convert gift cards to cash. You can sell or exchange your gift cards for cash through online marketplaces like CardCash or Raise, and then use the cash to purchase a prepaid debit card.

Use mobile payment apps. Some mobile payment apps, like Venmo or PayPal, allow you to link your gift card to your account and use the balance to purchase a prepaid debit card, transfer the balance to an existing debit card, or even transfer money from your debit card to your credit card.

Swap or trade gift cards. Exchange your gift cards with friends or family members who have prepaid debit cards.

Considering these alternatives ensures you have multiple methods to obtain a prepaid debit card that suits your needs.

FAQs

Can I use any type of gift card to buy a prepaid debit card?

Not all types of gift cards can be used to purchase prepaid debit cards. Retailers may only accept their own branded gift cards or have specific policies regarding third-party gift cards.

Are there fees for buying prepaid debit cards with gift cards?

Yes, there might be fees associated with purchasing a prepaid debit card using a gift card, such as activation fees or service charges, which will be deducted from the gift card balance.

How quickly can a prepaid debit card be activated?

Prepaid debit cards can typically be activated immediately after purchase. Activation methods may include calling a toll-free number, visiting the card issuer’s website, or using a mobile app.

Can partially used gift cards buy prepaid debit cards?

Yes, partially used gift cards can be used to buy prepaid debit cards, as long as the remaining balance is sufficient to cover the cost of the prepaid debit card and any applicable fees.