People often give their loved ones gift cards to express appreciation, celebrate special occasions, and treat them to their favorite products or services. While receiving such cards can be exciting, you must track their remaining balances regularly. Fortunately, checking a gift card’s balance is easier than ever through online and offline mediums. This post elaborates on the best places to purchase gift cards and the different ways to check their balance.

Popular places to buy gift cards
Here are a few places you can go to buy gift cards for a loved one:

Gift card kiosks
Many stores have gift card kiosks, where customers can choose cards from different brands, including retailers, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

Online gift card marketplaces
Online marketplaces like Giftcards.com and Raise have a collection of gift cards for sale. Customers can choose cards from specific retailers, restaurants, or experiences.

Grocery stores and supermarkets
Grocery stores and supermarkets often have gift card display racks. Customers can buy them while shopping for groceries.

Research the different kinds of gift cards available in these places and choose one that benefits you the most.

Ways to check your gift card balance
The following are three easy ways to check the balance of your gift cards:

Online check
Many retailers and gift card providers have online portals where customers can check their balances quickly. Visit the retailer’s website, head to the gift card page, and enter the card number and PIN (if applicable) to view the current balance.

Mobile apps
Several gift card providers have mobile apps that allow users to check their balances conveniently. Download the retailer’s app on your smartphone, log in or register your gift card, and access your balance information with a few clicks!

In-store check
If you prefer the in-person approach, visit the store or restaurant that issued the gift card. The cashier can help you know the remaining balance.

Tips for using gift cards
While gift cards can help you enjoy excellent discounts on products and services, you must use them cautiously. Here are a few tips:

Register your card
Registering your gift card with the issuer or retailer provides added security and protection against loss or theft. It also enables you to receive notifications about special offers or rewards.

Use it wisely
Be mindful of the card’s expiration date, if applicable, and use it for items or experiences you genuinely desire. Consider consolidating small balances onto one gift card for easier management.

Save gift card receipts
Keep the receipt for your gift card purchase, as some retailers may require it to replace a lost or stolen gift card.

Gift cards are a great way to make friends and family happy. If you receive and use these versatile cards, checking their balance regularly is crucial. You can do so via online checks, mobile apps, toll-free numbers, and in-store inquiries. Not tracking the balance can lead to disappointment if the remaining amount is low and you decide to use it for an expensive purchase.