Gift cards are very helpful for us in giving gifts, because the person we give the gift to can choose their own gift. However, unactivated gift cards are worthless. Make sure you follow these steps to activate your gift card in-store or online.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Activating Gift Cards Purchased Online
Step 1. Order gift cards online
Buying a gift card directly on the shop's website is the best way to verify its authenticity; however, other online stores such as Gift Cards Direct and Gift Card Mall sell gift cards from a wide variety of restaurants and shops.
Step 2. Wait for the gift card to be sent in the mail
Most gift cards have a sticker on the outside that says something like “Activate This Card”. Read the sticker carefully to know how to activate it.
Step 3. Use coins to peel off the column behind the card
Usually this column is made of a dark colored sticker or other material that covers the card number so that this card cannot be used until it is activated.
Step 4. Call the number on the sticker
You may also be able to open the URL on the card in your browser to enable it online. If the sticker on the card doesn't include a URL, you can type the name of the store and “gift card activate” on Google to find an activation site.
Step 5. Enter the gift card ID number
You may also be asked to enter your order number and a password/activation code that is sent with the gift card. Select “Activate” after you have entered all the requested information correctly.
Step 6. Use your gift card
The gift card has been successfully activated.
Method 2 of 2: Activate Store-bought Gift Cards
Step 1. Choose a gift card with the design you want when you are at the checkout
Step 2. State the value of the gift card you want
Some gift cards already contain the value listed on the card, while some other types of gift cards can be customized according to your wishes.
Step 3. Wait for the cashier to finish counting your purchases, including the gift card
Usually, the gift card will be activated immediately by the cashier. To be sure, ask the cashier whether the gift card has been activated or not.
Step 4. Save your shopping receipt
The receipt may contain a gift card ID number or activation code. You will need the receipt if later on the gift card cannot be used or has problems.
