American Express (Amex) gift cards are designed for spending, not for direct cash withdrawals or transfers to bank accounts. Unlike a reloadable prepaid card, an Amex gift card is a one-time use product with a set value. While you can't directly cash out your Amex gift card, there are several effective strategies to convert its value into usable funds or leverage it for your financial needs.
Let's explore how you can maximize the value of your Amex gift card!
Step 1: Understand Your American Express Gift Card
Before you do anything, it's crucial to understand the nature of your Amex gift card.
What is an Amex Gift Card?
An Amex gift card is a prepaid card with a specific, non-reloadable amount of money on it. It functions much like a debit card but is not linked to a bank account. It's accepted wherever American Express cards are, both online and in-store, within the United States (and sometimes internationally, depending on the card's terms).
Key Limitations:
No ATM Access: You cannot withdraw cash from an ATM using an Amex gift card.
No Direct Bank Transfers: You cannot directly transfer the balance to your bank account.
No Recurring Billing: Amex gift cards are generally not designed for recurring payments like utility bills or subscriptions.
Refund Policies: If you make a purchase and return it, the refund will typically go back to the gift card, not as cash.
Check Your Balance!
The very first thing you should do is check the exact balance on your card. This will help you plan your strategy effectively.
Online: Visit the official Amex gift card balance checker website (
balance.amexgiftcard.com By Phone: Call the toll-free number on the back of your card (usually 1-888-846-4308).
Step 2: Indirectly Convert Your Gift Card to Cash (Best Methods)
Since direct cash-out isn't an option, we'll focus on indirect methods that essentially free up your own cash by using the gift card for expenses you'd otherwise pay for.
Method 2.1: Use it for Everyday Expenses
This is often the easiest and most practical way to "cash out" your Amex gift card.
Groceries & Essentials: Use the card for your weekly grocery shopping, gas, or other household necessities. This frees up the cash you would have spent from your bank account for these items.
Bills You Can Pay with a Card: While not ideal for recurring bills, you can often use your Amex gift card for one-time bill payments.
Utility bills (some providers allow one-time payments with a card)
Mobile phone bills
Internet bills
Streaming services
Remember to check if your service provider charges a convenience fee for card payments.
Online Shopping: Use the card for online purchases you were already planning to make. This is particularly good for smaller balances.
When shopping online, select "Credit" or "Debit" as the payment method, not "Gift Card."
Enter the gift card details as you would a regular credit or debit card.
For the billing address, use your own name and address.
Method 2.2: Load a Digital Wallet or Payment App
Some digital wallets and payment apps allow you to add prepaid cards. This can give you more flexibility in how you spend the funds.
Add to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay: If you have a physical Amex gift card, you can often add it to your smartphone's digital wallet. This makes it easier to use in stores.
Connect to PayPal or Venmo (Limited Success): While generally designed for credit/debit cards, some users have reported success adding Amex gift cards to PayPal or Venmo as a funding source. If successful, you could potentially:
Send money to a trusted friend or family member (they might incur a fee) who then sends you the equivalent cash. Be aware of potential fees and the terms of service for these platforms, as they may have restrictions on gift card use.
Use the balance for online purchases through the app.
Method 2.3: Purchase a Merchant Gift Card (Strategic Spending)
If you frequently shop at a specific store or online retailer, you can convert your Amex gift card into a store-specific gift card.
Example: If you often buy things from Amazon, use your Amex gift card to purchase an Amazon gift card. This locks the value into a platform you regularly use, effectively giving you "cash" for future Amazon purchases.
Method 2.4: Sell Your Gift Card (Least Recommended, High Fees)
While an option, selling your Amex gift card typically means you'll receive less than its face value due to fees from the buyer.
Online Gift Card Marketplaces: Websites like CardCash, Raise, or Giftcard Zen allow you to sell unwanted gift cards. You'll typically get paid via PayPal, direct deposit, or sometimes even a different merchant gift card.
Be prepared to receive anywhere from 60% to 90% of the card's value.
Always research the reputation of the platform before selling.
Local Exchange Kiosks (e.g., Coinstar Exchange): Some grocery stores have kiosks that buy gift cards for cash. Again, the payout rate will be significantly lower than the card's face value.
Method 2.5: Strategic Refund (Use with Caution)
This method involves making a purchase you were planning to make anyway, and then immediately returning it in hopes of getting a cash refund.
This is highly dependent on the merchant's return policy. Most stores will refund purchases made with a gift card back to the original gift card.
Do NOT rely on this method and always check the store's specific return policy regarding gift card purchases. Attempting to force a cash refund when not allowed can lead to issues.
Step 3: Utilize Any Remaining Small Balances
Once you've used the bulk of your Amex gift card, you might be left with a small, awkward balance. Don't let it go to waste!
Option 3.1: Combine with Another Payment Method
Most merchants allow you to split payments.
Inform the cashier how much you want to use from the gift card and then pay the remaining balance with your debit/credit card or cash.
Online: Some online retailers allow split payments, but it's less common. You might have to use the full gift card balance first, and if it's less than the total, the system will prompt you for another payment method.
Option 3.2: Small Purchases
Use the remaining balance for small items like:
A coffee or snack
A portion of your gas fill-up
A single item at a convenience store
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to Check My American Express Gift Card Balance?
You can check your balance online at
How to Transfer Amex Gift Card to Bank Account?
You generally cannot directly transfer the balance of an Amex gift card to a bank account. Amex gift cards are not designed for this type of transaction.
How to Use Amex Gift Card for Online Purchases?
Enter the 15-digit card number, expiration date, and 4-digit security code in the "credit/debit card" payment section during checkout. Use your own name and address for the billing information.
How to Use Amex Gift Card at an ATM?
American Express gift cards cannot be used at ATMs to withdraw cash.
How to Pay Bills with an Amex Gift Card?
You can use your Amex gift card for one-time bill payments (e.g., mobile, internet) if the service provider accepts American Express and allows card payments. It's typically not suitable for recurring bills.
How to Sell My American Express Gift Card?
You can sell your Amex gift card on online marketplaces like CardCash or Raise, or at gift card exchange kiosks, but expect to receive less than the card's face value.
How to Avoid Fees When Using an Amex Gift Card?
Amex gift cards typically have no fees after purchase for the recipient. However, be mindful of any convenience fees merchants might charge for card payments, especially for bill payments.
How to Get a Refund from a Purchase Made with an Amex Gift Card?
If you return an item purchased with an Amex gift card, the refund will almost always be credited back to the original gift card, not as cash.
How to Use a Partially Used Amex Gift Card?
You can use a partially used Amex gift card by requesting a split payment at a merchant (using the gift card first, then another payment method for the remainder) or by making smaller purchases until the balance is depleted.
How to Register My Amex Gift Card for Online Use?
Amex gift cards typically don't require registration for online use, but some merchants might ask for a billing address. You can use your own name and address. Activating the card (usually done via the website or phone number on the back) is often a prerequisite for first use.
