Are you stuck with unwanted gift cards collecting dust in your drawer? Don’t worry; you’re not alone.
Luckily, there’s a simple solution to turn those cards into cash.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to find the closest gift card exchange kiosk near me (you) and get paid in cash, quickly and easily.
So, let’s dive in and discover how you can transform those gift cards into something you can truly enjoy!
What is a Gift Card Exchange Kiosk?
A gift card exchange kiosk is a handy machine that allows you to trade in your unused or unwanted gift cards for cash.
Instead of letting those cards go to waste, you can visit a kiosk and get money to spend on something you actually need or want.
How Does a Gift Card Exchange Kiosk Work?
Using a gift card exchange kiosk is pretty simple. You insert your gift card into the machine, and it scans the card to determine its value.
The kiosk then offers you a cash amount based on the card’s value. If you accept the offer, the machine dispenses cash or a voucher that you can redeem for money.
Finding a Gift Card Exchange Kiosk Near You
Ready to cash in those gift cards? Let’s help you find the nearest gift card exchange kiosk.
Gift Card Exchange Kiosk Locator Map by Zip Code or City
Use this tool to search and find nearby gift card exchange kiosks, shops, and grocery stores that buy and sell gift cards by entering a ZIP code or city.
Once you found a gift card exchange kiosk near you, click on the pin to view the address and a link to view it on Google Maps.
Locating the Closest Gift Card Exchange Kiosk
To find the nearest gift card exchange kiosk, you can start by checking the websites of companies that still offer this service, like Gift Card Bin and Coinstar.
These sites typically feature a “find a kiosk near me” option, allowing you to search for kiosks based on your location.
Coinstar kiosks currently provide a convenient way to convert your loose change into cash, a NO FEE eGift Card, or a charitable donation.
By choosing an eGift Card, you can enjoy free coin counting at Coinstar.
Please note that you can obtain an eGift Card through Coinstar, but you cannot sell existing physical gift cards. The minimum eGift Card value is $5.00, and the maximum is $500.00.
To find a nearby Coinstar kiosk, search using your city or zip code. Coinstar kiosks are typically located in grocery stores. A service fee of up to 12.5% + $0.50 transaction fee may apply.
Alternatively, you can try a quick Google search for “gift card exchange kiosk near me” to see what options are available in your area.
Stores with Gift Card Exchange Kiosks
While researching gift card exchange kiosks, we discovered that many of these stores no longer offer gift card trade-in programs:
Walmart
Walmart previously operated a trade-in program where they would buy any gift card in exchange for Walmart credits through CardCash. Unfortunately, this program is no longer active, and even the CardCash website where the program was hosted has been removed.
Coinstar
Coinstar coin-counting kiosks used to allow you to trade in your gift cards, but it seems these machines have discontinued the gift card exchange service.
Kroger
Several sources mention Kroger as a place to sell your gift cards, likely because Coinstar kiosks were located in Kroger stores. However, since Coinstar no longer facilitates gift card trade-ins, this information is outdated.
Safeway
Similar to Kroger, Safeway stores host Coinstar kiosks. As Coinstar kiosks have stopped buying gift cards, you won’t be able to sell your gift cards at Safeway.
Walgreens
We couldn’t find any reliable information to confirm that Walgreens buys gift cards. The only information available pertained to returning Walgreens gift cards, not exchanging them for cash.
Online Gift Card Exchanges
If you prefer an online approach to exchange your gift cards, there are several websites that allow you to trade or sell them for cash or other gift cards. Here are some popular options:
Raise
Raise is an online marketplace where you can sell your gift cards for cash or buy discounted gift cards from other users. It’s a great platform to find deals and offers a user-friendly experience.
With Raise, you can set your selling price and even use their mobile app to manage your gift card inventory.
GiftCash
GiftCash is another site that lets you sell your gift cards for cash. With a straightforward process, you can quickly get an offer and receive payment via PayPal or check.
GiftCash is known for its fast payout and offers a variety of gift card options to sell, making it an attractive option for those looking to get cash quickly.
EJ Gift Cards
EJ Gift Cards is an online platform where you can sell your gift cards for up to 75% of their value. They offer various payment methods, including PayPal, and boast a quick turnaround time.
EJ Gift Cards prides itself on providing excellent customer service and a simple, easy-to-use platform for users to sell their unwanted gift cards.
Prepaid2Cash
Prepaid2Cash is an app that enables you to sell your gift cards and prepaid cards for cash. With a simple process, you can receive your payment via direct deposit, making it a convenient option.
The app is available on both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible for most smartphone users.
CardCash
CardCash allows you to sell your unwanted gift cards for up to 92% of their value. You can also trade gift cards for ones from other retailers or opt to receive a check or PayPal payment.
With an extensive selection of retailers and card types, CardCash is an excellent choice for those looking to unload unwanted gift cards.
Gameflip
Gameflip is a marketplace specifically designed for gamers. You can sell your gaming gift cards, in-game items, and digital gaming codes here, allowing you to get cash or buy other gaming-related products.
If you’re a gaming enthusiast looking to trade or sell your gaming-related gift cards, Gameflip is the perfect platform for you.
ClipKard
ClipKard offers an easy way to sell your unwanted gift cards for cash or trade them for other gift cards. Their platform is user-friendly and provides a safe environment for exchanging gift cards.
With a variety of payment options, ClipKard ensures you can get the most value out of your unwanted gift cards.
Alternatives to Gift Card Exchange Kiosks
If you’re looking for other ways to make use of your unwanted gift cards, consider these alternatives:
Sell or Swap with Friends or Family
Selling or swapping your gift cards with friends or family members can be an easy and mutually beneficial way to make use of unwanted cards.
You might find someone interested in the specific retailer, and you can negotiate a fair exchange or selling price. It’s a win-win for both parties, and it helps to keep the transaction personal and secure.
Donate the Gift Card to Charity
Donating your gift cards to charity is a generous way to make a positive impact while clearing out your unwanted cards.
Many charities accept gift cards as donations, which they can use to purchase supplies, fund programs, or support those in need.
Be sure to check with the charity of your choice to ensure they accept gift cards and understand their donation process.
Use Gift Cards to Purchase Items to Flip
Another creative way to make use of your gift cards is by purchasing items on sale or at a discount with the card, then selling those items for a profit.
This method, known as “flipping,” can help you turn your gift cards into cash while also providing a potentially fun and lucrative side hustle.
Exchange Gift Cards for Airline Miles or Other Rewards
If you’re part of a loyalty program, you may be able to exchange your gift cards for airline miles, hotel points, or other rewards.
This can be an excellent way to make your unwanted cards more valuable, especially if you’re an avid traveler or collector of rewards points.
Check with your loyalty program provider to see if they offer a gift card exchange option and learn about the conversion rates and process.
Low Balance Gift Cards
If you have a gift card with a low balance, it’s essential to know your options. In some states, retailers are required by law to give cash on request if the gift card balance is below a specific amount.
Here’s a list of states with such laws and the respective balance thresholds:
- California – $10 or less
- Colorado – $5 or less
- Maine – $5 or less
- Massachusetts – $5 or less
- Montana – $5 or less
- New Jersey – $5 or less
- Oregon – $5 or less
- Rhode Island – $1 or less
- Vermont – $1 or less
- Washington – $5 or less
Please note that these laws may change, so always check the most recent regulations in your state.
If you’re not in one of these states or prefer not to request cash, you can still make use of low-balance gift cards.
Consider combining them with other gift cards or payment methods to make a more significant purchase or use them to partially pay for items.
This way, you won’t waste any of your gift card value and can still make the most out of it.
Gift Card Exchange Kiosk FAQs
Here are a few common questions related to gift card exchange kiosks and where to find them.
Do Gift Card Exchange Kiosks Charge a Fee?
Yes, gift card exchange kiosks typically charge a fee for their services. The fee varies depending on the kiosk, the type of gift card, and its remaining balance.
It’s essential to check the fee structure before using a kiosk to ensure you’re comfortable with the amount you’ll receive for your gift card.
Can I Sell Expired Gift Cards for Cash?
It depends on the gift card and the company’s policies. Some gift cards have no expiration date, while others may expire but can still be redeemed for their remaining value.
If your gift card has expired, it’s worth checking with the issuer or the gift card exchange service to see if you can still sell it for cash.
How Do I Get the Most Money for My Gift Card?
To get the most money for your gift card, consider the following tips:
- Compare different gift card exchange platforms and kiosks to find the best offer.
- Sell popular gift cards from well-known retailers, as they tend to have higher demand and better resale value.
- Keep an eye on promotions or special deals on gift card exchange websites, as they may offer better rates for a limited time.
- Consider trading your gift card for another one that you will use, as trading might give you a better value than selling for cash.
Where Can I Get Free Gift Cards to Sell?
While it’s rare to find completely free gift cards, there are ways to earn them through various online platforms and apps. Swagbucks and Survey Junkie are some of the popular platforms to try.
Some options include taking online surveys, participating in cashback programs, and signing up for promotional offers.
Once you’ve earned these gift cards, you can sell them through gift card exchange platforms or kiosks.
Keep in mind that selling gift cards obtained for free might not yield a high profit, but it’s still a way to turn them into cash or exchange them for gift cards from retailers you prefer.
Do Gift Card Exchange Kiosks Exist?
Yes, gift card exchange kiosks exist, but they have become less common in recent years.
Some physical locations may still have kiosks that allow you to exchange your gift cards for cash, but they are not as widespread as they once were.
Where Can I Convert My Gift Card to Cash?
You can convert your gift card to cash through online gift card exchange platforms like CardCash, Raise, GiftCash, and others.
While physical kiosks are less common now, you may still find some in certain locations. You can also try selling your gift card to friends, family, or through local buy-and-sell groups.
Where Can I Sell My Gift Card for Cash Instantly Near Me?
Finding a physical location to sell your gift card for cash instantly might be challenging, as gift card exchange kiosks have become less prevalent.
Your best bet is to try online platforms or ask friends, family, or local buy-and-sell groups if anyone is interested in buying your gift card.
How to Safely Exchange Gift Cards?
To safely exchange gift cards, follow these steps:
- Use reputable online platforms like CardCash, Raise, GiftCash, or others that have a secure website and a good track record.
- If exchanging with friends, family, or through local buy-and-sell groups, make sure to verify the gift card balance and its validity before completing the transaction.
- Avoid sharing sensitive information such as card numbers and PINs until you have confirmation of payment or a trustworthy agreement with the buyer.
- Be cautious when dealing with strangers online, and consider using an escrow service if you’re unsure about the buyer’s trustworthiness.
- Always check the gift card’s terms and conditions to ensure it can be transferred or resold legally.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while gift card exchange kiosks may be harder to find nowadays, there are still various ways to convert your unwanted gift cards into cash.
Online platforms, local buy-and-sell groups, and personal connections offer plenty of opportunities to exchange your gift cards safely and conveniently.
Remember to research your options, check the terms and conditions of your gift card, and follow best practices for safe transactions.
With the right approach, you can turn those unused gift cards into cash or other valuable rewards!
