Having a Southwest Airlines gift card is like holding a little piece of travel freedom in your hands! But before you can jet off to your dream destination, you might be wondering, "How much is actually on this thing?" Don't worry, checking your Southwest gift card balance is a straightforward process, and I'm here to guide you through every step. Let's get started and unlock the travel potential of your gift card!
Step 1: Get Your Gift Card Ready! (And make sure it's a Southwest one!)
First things first, you'll need your physical Southwest Airlines gift card or your e-gift card details readily available. Take a moment to locate it. Is it a physical card tucked away in your wallet, or did you receive an e-gift card in your email inbox?
Important Note: Make sure it's specifically a Southwest Airlines gift card. Sometimes people confuse them with other travel cards or flight credits. Southwest gift cards typically have a unique 16-digit card number and often a 4-digit security code (PIN) or a longer security code, depending on when and where it was purchased.
Sub-heading: Identifying Key Information on Your Card
16-Digit Card Number: This is the primary identifier for your gift card. It's usually prominently displayed on the front or back of a physical card, or within the email for an e-gift card.
Security Code (PIN): This is a crucial piece of information for checking your balance and redeeming the card. On physical cards, it's often under a scratch-off strip on the back. For e-gift cards, it will be included in the email alongside the card number. Do NOT scratch off the security code until you are ready to use it or check the balance, as it can be considered "used" if the code is revealed without actually checking the balance.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method for Checking the Balance
Southwest Airlines offers a couple of convenient ways to check your gift card balance. You can opt for the online method which is quick and accessible, or if you prefer a more direct approach, the phone method is also available.
Sub-heading: Method A: Checking Online (The Quickest Way!)
This is typically the fastest and most popular method.
Navigate to the Official Southwest Airlines Website: Open your web browser and go to the official Southwest Airlines website. You can usually find the gift card section by typing "southwest.com" into your address bar.
Pro Tip: Look for a "Gift Cards" or "Travel Funds" link in the footer or navigation menu. Southwest often has a dedicated page for gift card management. You can directly go to
https://www.southwest.com/gift-card/check-balance/
Locate the "Check Balance" Option: On the gift card page, you'll usually see an option like "Check Your Balance" or "Check Gift Card Balance." Click on this link.
Enter Your Gift Card Details: You will be prompted to enter two key pieces of information:
Your 16-digit Southwest Gift Card Number.
Your Security Code (PIN).
Carefully double-check the numbers you enter to avoid any errors.
Click "Check Balance": Once you've entered both numbers, click the "Check Balance" or similar button.
View Your Balance: The website will then display the current balance on your Southwest Airlines gift card. Voila! You'll instantly know how much you have to spend on your next flight.
Sub-heading: Method B: Checking by Phone (For a Personal Touch)
If you prefer to speak with someone or are having trouble with the online system, checking your balance over the phone is a reliable alternative.
Dial the Southwest Airlines Gift Card Customer Service Number: The dedicated number for gift card inquiries is usually 1-866-393-2081 or the general Southwest customer service number 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA).
Note: The exact number for gift card balance checks might be slightly different or direct you through an automated system.
Follow the Automated Prompts: When you call, you'll likely encounter an automated system. Listen carefully to the options and select the one for "gift card balance" or "travel funds."
Enter Your Gift Card Number and PIN: The automated system will ask you to input your 16-digit gift card number and your security code (PIN) using your phone's keypad.
Listen to Your Balance: Once you've entered the details, the system will announce your current Southwest gift card balance. If you need further assistance, you'll usually have the option to speak with a customer service representative.
Step 3: Understanding Your Balance and Terms
Once you know your balance, it's a good idea to understand how Southwest gift cards work. This will help you maximize their value and avoid any surprises.
Sub-heading: Key Things to Remember About Southwest Gift Cards
No Expiration Dates: One of the best features of Southwest gift cards is that they never expire! This gives you ultimate flexibility to plan your travel when it suits you best.
Non-Refundable (Generally): Southwest gift cards are generally non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit, except where required by law.
Lost or Stolen Cards: Unfortunately, Southwest gift cards are generally not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed. Treat them like cash!
Redemption Limitations: Southwest gift cards can only be redeemed at southwest.com, through Southwest Airlines Mobile Apps, by calling Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA), or at Southwest Airlines ticket counter locations for passenger air travel and other qualifying purchases directly with Southwest.
They are not valid for purchasing Southwest Vacations packages, cargo, hotel, rental car, merchandise, group tickets, EarlyBird Check-In®, baggage fees, Upgraded Boarding at the airport, Pet Fares, Unaccompanied Minor service charges, or additional Southwest gift cards. However, taxes, security fees, and Passenger facilities charges can be paid with a Southwest gift card.
Multiple Gift Cards: You can typically use up to three Southwest gift cards per passenger on each reservation. If your purchase exceeds the amount available on three gift cards, you'll need to use another form of payment for the difference.
Step 4: Planning Your Next Adventure!
Now that you know your balance, the real fun begins! You can start planning your next Southwest Airlines adventure. Whether it's a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, your gift card can help get you there.
Sub-heading: Maximizing Your Gift Card Value
Combine with Sales: Keep an eye out for Southwest's frequent sales and promotions. Combining your gift card with a good fare can stretch your travel budget further.
Book in Advance: Generally, booking flights further in advance can result in lower fares, allowing your gift card to cover more of the cost.
Consider a Companion Pass: If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, consider working towards a Companion Pass. This allows a designated companion to fly with you for just the cost of taxes and fees, making your gift card even more valuable when combined with this perk.
By following these simple steps, you can confidently check your Southwest Airlines gift card balance and get ready for your next exciting journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are 10 common questions about checking your Southwest Airlines gift card balance, with quick answers:
How to check my Southwest gift card balance online?
You can check your Southwest gift card balance online by visiting
How to find the security code (PIN) on my Southwest gift card?
The security code (PIN) on a physical Southwest gift card is typically located under a scratch-off strip on the back. For e-gift cards, it will be provided in the email you received.
How to check my Southwest gift card balance by phone?
You can check your Southwest gift card balance by calling 1-866-393-2081 or 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA) and following the automated prompts.
How to use multiple Southwest gift cards for one flight?
You can use a maximum of three Southwest gift cards per passenger on each reservation when booking a flight.
How to redeem a Southwest gift card?
Southwest gift cards can be redeemed on southwest.com, via the Southwest Airlines mobile app, by calling Southwest Airlines, or at Southwest Airlines ticket counter locations.
How to know if my Southwest gift card has an expiration date?
Southwest Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not have dormancy fees.
How to get a replacement for a lost or stolen Southwest gift card?
Unfortunately, Southwest gift cards are generally not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed, so treat them like cash.
How to use a Southwest gift card for baggage fees?
Southwest gift cards generally cannot be used for baggage fees. They are primarily for passenger air travel and associated taxes/fees.
How to combine a Southwest gift card with other forms of payment?
If your purchase exceeds the balance of your gift card(s), you can typically combine it with another accepted form of payment, such as a credit card.
How to contact Southwest Airlines customer service for gift card issues?
For any issues or questions regarding your Southwest gift card, you can contact Southwest Airlines customer service at 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA).
