How to Check If Your Gift Card Still Has Balance (And What to Do If It Doesn’t)

Wondering if your gift card still works? Learn how to quickly check the balance and what steps to take if it’s not working—all with a soft sell at the end.

Unused gift cards are everywhere—and often hold unexpected value. We'll show you simple ways to check your card’s balance, troubleshoot issues, and what to do if it doesn't work. Plus, discover how Liquid can help you reclaim value fast in Miami.

It’s estimated that Americans hold $23–27 billion in unused gift cards, averaging about $187–$244 each year. Many lose value from inactivity or never-tapped balances.

✅ Simple Methods to Check Gift Card Balance

  1. Go to the gift card issuer’s official website or app (e.g., Amazon, Target, Google Play).
  2. Call the toll-free number on the back of the card.
  3. Use a barcode scanner on physical cards—some stores and apps support this.
  4. Log in (if required) and enter the gift code for instant balance check.

🚫 Troubleshooting: What to Do If the Card Doesn’t Work

  • Re-enter the code carefully—mixing O and 0 is a common mistake.
  • Check for activation—some cards need initial activation.
  • Confirm region compatibility—e.g., Apple or Google cards tied to specific countries.
  • Try in-store scanning if online fails—barcode readers may detect issues.
  • Contact customer service—issuers may resolve activation or fraud problems.

💡 If It Still Fails

  • Report possible fraud—even legitimate cards can be drained by scammers.
  • Request a replacement from the issuer if activation failed.
  • Check unclaimed property laws—federal law requires cards not to expire for at least 5 years, and unredeemed balances may return via state programs.
  • Sell it to Liquid—even low-value or broken cards may have residual worth, which we redeem fast.

📌 Quick Tips Summary

  • Use official channels to check balance first
  • Double-check code accuracy and activation
  • Try alternate redemption methods if it fails
  • Report fraud or request issuer help
  • Convert unused or broken cards into cash with Liquid

🎯 Final Word

Just because a gift card isn’t working today doesn’t mean it's worthless. Take a few simple steps to check and reclaim value, or let Liquid help you turn it into cash—whether it’s full-value or has partial balance.

Buy or Sell your gift card now with Liquid
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