Feeling that moment of anticipation when you're about to use your American Express gift card, but then a tiny voice in your head asks, "How much is actually left on this thing?" Don't worry, you're not alone! This is a super common scenario, and thankfully, checking your American Express gift card balance is a straightforward process. Knowing your balance beforehand can save you from awkward declined transactions at the checkout and help you plan your spending perfectly.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of checking your American Express gift card balance, ensuring you're always in the know. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Locate Your American Express Gift Card (The Essential First Move!)
Before you do anything else, you'll need your physical American Express gift card in hand. Why is this so crucial? Because all the information you'll need for checking the balance is printed directly on the card itself.
What to look for on your card:
The 15-Digit Card Number: This is the primary identification number for your gift card. It's usually embossed on the front of the card, similar to a regular credit card. Make sure you copy this down exactly as it appears, without any spaces or dashes.
The Expiration Date (MM/YY): While the funds on American Express gift cards generally do not expire, the physical card itself will have a "Valid Thru" date. This date is important for online and phone balance checks. You'll find it on the front of the card, typically below the card number.
The 4-Digit Security Code (CID): This crucial code is often located on the front of the American Express gift card, above or near the main card number. Unlike regular credit cards where the CVV is on the back, for Amex gift cards, it's usually on the front. It's a 4-digit number.
Pro-Tip: Take a clear photo of the front and back of your gift card (if there's any important info on the back) and store it in a secure location, like a password-protected note on your phone or a secure cloud drive. This way, if you ever lose the physical card, you'll still have the necessary details to check its balance or report it lost/stolen.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method for Checking the Balance
American Express offers a couple of convenient ways to check your gift card balance. You can opt for the quick online method or the traditional phone call. Both are reliable, so pick the one that suits you best!
Sub-heading 2.1: Checking Your Balance Online (The Quickest Way!)
This is often the most preferred method due to its speed and accessibility. All you need is an internet connection and the details from your gift card.
Navigate to the Official American Express Gift Card Balance Website:
Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, etc.).
Type in the official American Express Gift Card balance check URL:
https://balance.amexgiftcard.com/ Press Enter. You should see a page specifically designed for checking gift card balances.
Enter Your Card Details:
On the website, you'll find fields prompting you for information.
Card Number: Carefully type in the 15-digit card number from your American Express gift card. Double-check each digit to ensure accuracy.
Expiration Date (MM / YY): Enter the two-digit month and two-digit year as they appear on your card.
Security Code (4-digit): Input the 4-digit security code (CID) that you found on the front of your card.
Optional: You may see a field for an email address. This is usually optional and not required to check the balance.
Submit and View Your Balance:
Once you've entered all the required information, click on the "Continue" or "Check Balance" button.
The website will then display your current American Express gift card balance and often a recent transaction history. This gives you a clear picture of how much you have left to spend.
Sub-heading 2.2: Checking Your Balance by Phone (When You Prefer to Talk!)
If you don't have internet access, or simply prefer to speak with someone or use an automated system, checking your balance by phone is a great alternative.
Locate the Customer Service Number:
Look on the back of your American Express gift card. You should find a toll-free customer service number printed there. This number is specifically for gift card inquiries.
A common general American Express Gift Card customer service number is 1-888-846-4308 or 1-800-505-6849 (depending on the type/issuer of the Amex gift card). Always prioritize the number printed directly on your card.
Make the Call:
Dial the toll-free number from your phone.
You will likely be greeted by an automated system. Listen carefully to the prompts.
Follow the Automated Prompts:
The system will typically ask you to enter your 15-digit gift card number, followed by the pound (#) key.
It will then likely request your 4-digit security code (CID).
After you've entered the necessary details, the automated system will announce your current American Express gift card balance. You may also be given an option to hear recent transactions.
Speak to a Representative (If Needed):
If you encounter any issues, or prefer to speak with a human, listen for the option to connect with a customer service representative. Be prepared to provide your card details and possibly some personal identification to verify your ownership.
Sub-heading 2.3: Checking Your Balance In-Person (Less Common, But Possible)
While less common for American Express gift cards, some merchants may be able to check the balance for you at the point of sale.
Ask the Cashier:
Before making a purchase, present your American Express gift card to the cashier and politely ask if they can check the remaining balance for you.
They may swipe the card or manually enter the details into their system.
Be Prepared for "No":
Keep in mind that not all retailers have this capability for American Express gift cards, as the primary methods are online or by phone. It's always best to check online or by phone beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Step 3: Understanding Your Balance and Planning Your Purchases
Once you have your balance, it's time to make the most of your American Express gift card!
Exact Amount: Knowing the exact balance helps you avoid declined transactions. If your purchase exceeds the card's balance, it will likely be declined unless the merchant allows split payments.
Split Payments: Many stores allow you to split payments. This means you can use the remaining balance on your gift card and then pay the difference with another form of payment (cash, debit, or credit card). If your balance is low, this is an excellent way to use up every penny.
Online Purchases: For online shopping, make sure the purchase amount is equal to or less than your gift card balance. If it's more, the transaction might not go through unless the website specifically supports split payments.
Keep the Card: Even after you've spent the entire balance, it's a good idea to keep the physical card until you're absolutely sure all transactions have cleared and there are no returns or refunds pending. This can be helpful for tracking or if you need to dispute a charge.
No Reloads: American Express gift cards are generally not reloadable. Once the balance is used up, the card cannot be topped up again.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
Even with a straightforward process, sometimes you might encounter minor hiccups. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Incorrect Card Details: The most frequent error. Double-check that you've entered the 15-digit card number, expiration date, and 4-digit security code exactly as they appear on the card. One wrong digit can lead to an error.
Website Issues: If the American Express website isn't loading or seems to be having technical difficulties, try reloading the page, clearing your browser's cache and cookies, or trying a different web browser. If the issue persists, the phone method is a reliable backup.
Scratched or Unreadable Codes: If your security code or card number is scratched or unreadable, you'll need to contact American Express Gift Card customer service by phone. They may require additional verification of ownership (like proof of purchase) to assist you.
Balance Seems Incorrect: If the balance displayed doesn't match your expectations, consider any recent purchases that might be pending or holds placed by merchants (like at gas stations or hotels). If you still believe there's an error, contact customer service for a detailed transaction history.
Card Not Activated: Some American Express gift cards might require activation before first use. Check the packaging or the back of the card for activation instructions. Often, checking the balance online for the first time acts as activation.
Using as "Credit" not "Debit": American Express gift cards do not have a PIN and are not linked to a bank account. When using them in-store, always select "Credit" at the payment terminal, even if it's a gift card. Trying to use it as a debit card will likely result in a declined transaction.
By following these steps and keeping these tips in mind, you'll be a pro at managing your American Express gift card balance!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check the balance on an American Express gift card online?
To check your balance online, visit the official American Express Gift Card balance website at
How to check the balance on an American Express gift card by phone?
You can check your balance by calling the customer service number printed on the back of your American Express gift card. A common number is 1-888-846-4308. Follow the automated prompts to enter your card number and security code.
How to find the security code (CID) on an American Express gift card?
The 4-digit security code (CID) on an American Express gift card is typically located on the front of the card, usually above or near the main 15-digit card number.
How to use an American Express gift card with a low balance?
If your American Express gift card has a low balance, you can often use it for a split payment at most merchants. Tell the cashier the exact amount on the card, and then pay the remaining difference with another payment method (cash, debit, or credit card).
How to activate an American Express gift card?
Most American Express gift cards come pre-activated. However, some might require activation. Check the packaging or instructions included with your gift card. Often, the first online balance check or purchase can serve as activation.
How to use an American Express gift card for online purchases?
When making an online purchase, enter the 15-digit card number, expiration date, and 4-digit security code from your gift card in the payment section, just like a regular credit card. Ensure the purchase amount does not exceed the card's balance unless the website supports split payments.
How to get cash from an American Express gift card?
American Express gift cards are generally not redeemable for cash. They are designed for purchases. You cannot typically get a cash advance from an Amex gift card.
How to report a lost or stolen American Express gift card?
If your American Express gift card is lost or stolen, immediately call American Express Gift Card Customer Service at the number on the back of your card (e.g., 1-888-846-4308). Be prepared to provide your card number and other identification details to report it and potentially get a replacement with the remaining balance.
How to check the transaction history of an American Express gift card?
When you check your balance online at
How to use an expired American Express gift card with a remaining balance?
While the funds on American Express gift cards generally do not expire, the physical card itself has a "Valid Thru" date. If your card has passed this date but still has a balance, you should contact American Express Gift Card customer service (the number on the back of the card) to request a refund for the unused balance or a replacement card.
