Hey there! Looking to digitize your American Express Gift Card and keep it conveniently in your Apple Wallet? That's a great idea—it makes shopping so much easier and means you'll never have to worry about forgetting the card at home. Let's get you set up with a simple, step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Get to Know Your Card and Wallet
Before you begin, it's important to understand what you're working with. While many American Express gift cards are compatible with Apple Wallet and Apple Pay, it's always a good idea to double-check.
Check the Card: Take a look at your physical American Express Gift Card. Does it have a full 16-digit card number, an expiration date, and a security code (the 4-digit number on the front of the card)? If it looks like a regular credit or debit card, you're on the right track!
Check Your Device: Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS and has a compatible model for Apple Pay (iPhone 6 or later). You'll also need to have Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode enabled.
The Golden Rule: The key to adding most American Express cards (including gift cards) to Apple Wallet is to treat them just like you would a regular credit or debit card. You won't be using the "Add Gift Card" option you might see for specific merchant gift cards.
Step 2: The Direct Method - Adding Via the Apple Wallet App
This is the most common and straightforward way to add your American Express Gift Card. It's a quick process that should only take a couple of minutes.
Open the Wallet App: Find the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap to open it. It's a pre-installed app, so you don't need to download anything new.
Tap the Plus Sign: In the top right-hand corner of the Wallet app, you'll see a small plus sign (+). Tap this to begin adding a new card.
Select "Debit or Credit Card": You'll be presented with a few options. Do not select "Gift Card." Instead, choose "Debit or Credit Card" because your American Express Gift Card functions like a prepaid debit card.
Start Adding the Card: The next screen will prompt you to enter your card details. You have two easy options here:
Use the Camera: Place your American Express Gift Card on a flat surface and align it with the on-screen frame. The app will automatically capture the card number and expiration date.
Enter Manually: If the camera can't read the card, or you prefer to type it in yourself, tap “Enter Card Details Manually” at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Entering and Verifying Your Card Information
Now that you've entered the basic details, it's time to provide the rest of the required information.
Fill in the Blanks: The app will likely ask you to confirm or enter your name, the card number, and the expiration date. It will also ask for the Card Security Code. For an American Express card, this is the 4-digit number printed on the front, above the main card number.
Agree to the Terms: After you've entered all the details, tap "Next" or "Continue." You'll be prompted to read and agree to the American Express Terms and Conditions for using the card with Apple Pay. Be sure to scroll through and accept.
Card Verification: Apple and American Express will now verify your card. This is an important security step. You might be asked to verify your identity by receiving a verification code via email, text message, or phone call. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this step.
Step 4: Using Your Card and Checking the Balance
Congratulations! Your American Express Gift Card should now be successfully added to your Apple Wallet.
Set as Default (Optional): If this is the only card you'll be using for a while, you can set it as your default payment card in your Wallet settings.
How to Pay: To use the card, simply double-click the side button on your iPhone (or Home button, depending on your model) and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID. Hold the top of your iPhone near the contactless reader at the store. A "Done" message and a checkmark will appear on your screen, indicating the payment was successful.
Check the Balance: Unfortunately, your Apple Wallet won't automatically show you the remaining balance on your American Express Gift Card. To check the balance, you'll need to visit the American Express Gift Card website or call the customer service number on the back of the card. It's a good practice to do this before a major purchase to ensure you have enough funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to add a second American Express Gift Card? The process is the same as adding the first one. Simply tap the plus sign (+) in the top right of your Apple Wallet app and follow the same steps. You can add multiple cards to your wallet.
How to check the balance of my American Express Gift Card in Apple Wallet? You cannot check the balance directly within the Apple Wallet app. You must visit the American Express Gift Card website or call the customer service number provided on the card's packaging to check your balance.
How to remove an American Express Gift Card from Apple Wallet? To remove a card, open the Apple Wallet app, tap on the American Express Gift Card, tap the three dots (...) in the corner, and scroll down to the bottom. You'll see the option to "Remove Card."
How to use my American Express Gift Card online with Apple Pay? When shopping online with a merchant that accepts Apple Pay, simply choose Apple Pay as your payment method at checkout. Your digital American Express Gift Card will appear as an option.
How to troubleshoot if my card is not adding? Make sure your device has a strong internet connection. Double-check that all the card details (card number, expiration date, security code) are entered correctly. If the issue persists, contact American Express customer service.
How to add an Amex Gift Card without an account? You don't need a specific American Express account to add a gift card to your Apple Wallet. You just need the physical card details (card number, expiration date, and security code) to complete the process.
How to use my American Express Gift Card for in-app purchases? When making an in-app purchase, select Apple Pay as your payment method. The app will prompt you to confirm your purchase, and you can select your American Express Gift Card as the source of funds.
How to find the security code on my American Express Gift Card? The security code for an American Express card is a 4-digit number located on the front of the card, usually above or to the right of the main 16-digit card number.
How to add a physical gift card without a barcode? Since you're adding an American Express Gift Card as a debit/credit card, you won't be using a barcode anyway. The app will prompt you to enter the card number and other details manually or by scanning the front of the card.
How to know if my American Express Gift Card is compatible? Most American Express Gift Cards that function like a prepaid card (with a 16-digit number, expiration date, and security code) are compatible. If your card has a very different format or is for a specific merchant, check the terms and conditions on the card or its packaging.
