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Can You Buy a Gift Card with a Credit Card?
May 14, 2025
Quick Answer
Yes, you can typically purchase gift cards using a credit card, a practice widely accepted by most retailers for both in-store and online transactions.
Should You Buy A Gift Card With A Credit Card?
Deciding to use a credit card for gift cards involves weighing the pros and cons.
Benefits
- You can earn credit card rewards, such as points or cash back, on the purchase.
- The purchase may be covered by your card’s fraud and purchase protection benefits.
- Transactions are recorded on your statement, making them easy to track.
Costs
- Some gift cards, especially those from financial institutions, have activation fees.
- If you carry a balance on your credit card, you will accrue interest on the purchase.
- Issuers might treat the purchase as a cash advance, which often comes with higher fees and interest rates.
- Gift cards are a frequent target for scams, requiring extra vigilance.
How to Buy A Gift Card With A Credit Card
Buying a gift card with your credit card is a straightforward way to give a flexible present. This simple process can also help you earn rewards on your purchase.
- Choose the Right Card: Select a credit card that offers rewards like cashback or points on retail purchases to maximize value. Using a tool like Kudos' explore cards tool can help you find the best option.
- Select the Gift Card: Decide on the retailer and the specific dollar amount you wish to load onto the card. You can typically purchase them directly from the brand's website or in-store.
- Complete the Purchase: Finalize the transaction as you would any other purchase. Provide your credit card details online or use your physical card at the checkout. Be sure to keep the receipt.
- Verify the Transaction: Review your credit card statement to confirm the charge is accurate and that you have received any applicable rewards points or cashback from the purchase.
Impact On Your Credit Score
Purchasing a gift card with your credit card is treated like any other retail transaction, but how you manage the purchase can affect your credit. Here are a few key considerations.
- Credit Utilization Ratio. A large gift card purchase can increase your credit utilization. It's best to keep your total balance below 30% of your credit limit to avoid a negative impact on your score.
- Making On-Time Payments. Just like any other charge, you must pay your bill on time. A late payment can result in fees and a lower credit score, as payment history is a major factor.
- Potential for Cash Advance. Some credit card issuers may classify gift card purchases as a cash advance. These transactions often carry higher fees and interest rates, making them more costly than regular purchases.
Alternative Ways To Buy A Gift Card
Payment Method Variations
While credit cards are a common choice, they are not the only option for purchasing a gift card. Most physical retail locations readily accept cash or debit cards. For online purchases, many brand websites and third-party vendors integrate with digital payment services like PayPal, providing a secure way to buy a gift card without directly using a credit card.
Digital vs. Physical Cards
The format of the gift card itself presents another choice. E-gift cards offer the convenience of instant delivery via email, perfect for immediate gifting. Conversely, physical gift cards provide a tangible item that can be wrapped and presented traditionally. Both serve the same function, but the choice between them depends on timing and personal preference for the gift-giving experience.
Choose the Right Card to Buy A Gift Card
Picking the right credit card for your gift card purchase can mean earning more rewards, but sifting through thousands of options is a tall order. Kudos’ AI-powered tool makes it simple by providing personalized recommendations based on your spending habits and preferences. It allows you to compare up to three cards side-by-side, helping you find the best card for your needs without the usual guesswork.
If you want to get more from your credit cards, Kudos is the ultimate free shopping tool for your online purchases. We are also giving you $20 back after your first eligible purchase—just sign-up for free with code “GET20” and buy from a Boost merchant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there fees for buying gift cards with a credit card?
Retailers typically don't charge extra, but your credit card issuer might classify the purchase as a cash advance.
Does buying a gift card with a credit card earn rewards?
This varies by credit card issuer; many programs exclude gift card purchases from earning points or cash back rewards.
Are there restrictions on which gift cards I can buy?
Yes, some stores may limit the purchase of certain gift cards, like Visa or Mastercard gift cards, with credit.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
