We may earn a commission for purchases through links on our site at no cost to you, Learn more.
Many people end up with unwanted gift cards. The good news is there are solutions! You can turn those unused gift cards into cash for your PayPal account.
This applies to various gift cards, from popular stores like Amazon, Target, and Walmart to generic prepaid Visas. Don’t let those cards gather dust in a drawer! By selling them, you can unlock real cash that you can use freely.
Compared to gift cards, PayPal cash offers superior flexibility. You can easily transfer your PayPal balance to your bank account, use it for online payments, or even shop at stores that accept PayPal. With PayPal, you can spend your money exactly how you want.
How to turn gift cards into PayPal cash
Here’s a guide on exchanging your gift cards for PayPal funds.
1. CardCash
CardCash allows you to convert those unwanted gift cards into cash deposited directly into your PayPal account.
This is a great option because it gives your gift card a new lease on life. Instead of being restricted to a single store, the cash in your PayPal account offers incredible flexibility. You can use it for online payments at millions of websites, transfer it to your bank for easy access, or even shop online at stores that accept PayPal.
Here’s how CardCash works:
- Visit CardCash and enter the store name and your gift card balance. Click “Get Offer” to see the exchange rate for PayPal cash. This rate will vary depending on the demand for that specific gift card brand.
- Enter details for additional gift cards (optional) and click “ADD CARD.”
- If you accept the offer, click “Continue.”
- Enter your gift card number and PIN, then click “Connect with PayPal.”
- Log in to your PayPal account and complete the required information.
- Click “Get my PayPal balance” to finalize the exchange.
You can convert as many gift cards as you want in one transaction! Typically, it takes just one business day for your funds to appear in your PayPal account, ready to use at your convenience.
2. Raise
Raise, a gift card resale platform, offers a solution. It lets you sell your gift cards and receive the proceeds directly in your PayPal account, unlocking their true value.
Here’s how Raise empowers you to turn unwanted plastic into spendable cash. First, head over to Raise’s website and use their search function to find your specific gift card brand. The platform accommodates new and partially used cards, giving even slightly depleted cards a second chance.
Once you’ve located your card type, creating a listing is simple and free. Raise boasts compatibility with thousands of brands, so you’ll likely find a home for your unwanted gift card. Even better, you get to control the selling price! Set it at a competitive rate to attract buyers quickly.
Once your gift card sells, Raise takes care of the rest. You’ll receive your payout conveniently deposited into your PayPal account, ready to use for online purchases, transfers to your bank, or anything else PayPal allows.
3. eBay
Many platforms, like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace, restrict these sales to protect buyers. However, there’s a solution for those who prefer the familiarity of auctions: eBay allows the sale of certain gift cards under specific guidelines.
Here’s what you can sell on eBay:
- Officially authorized eBay gift cards
- Collectible gift cards with no remaining value, as long as the listing clearly states this.
- Gift cards for stores or companies declared bankrupt or going out of business, provided the cards are still accepted. Remember to mention any expiration dates in the listing.
Keep these seller requirements in mind:
- The total value of your listed gift cards cannot exceed $500 at any given time.
- You must possess the physical gift card at the time of listing and ship it within 5 days of the sale.
There are also restrictions on what cannot be sold:
- Electronically delivered gift cards from unauthorized retailers.
- Prepaid credit cards (money cards) from major brands like American Express, Discover, Mastercard, or Visa.
- Store or merchandise credit slips.
While listing items on eBay is free, there are fees involved. The final value fee is typically 12.9% of the sale price, with an additional $0.30 charged per order.
Understanding these guidelines can help you determine if eBay is the right platform to sell your unwanted gift cards.
4. Cash4GiftCardsAmerica
Cash4GiftCardsAmerica is a platform designed to help you turn unwanted gift cards into cash deposited directly into your PayPal account.
The process is designed for speed and convenience. You could have the cash readily available in your PayPal account in less than an hour! However, the website requires you to submit valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, to ensure a secure and efficient transaction process.
Cash4GiftCardsAmerica boasts a wide range of compatibility, accepting gift cards from over 650 popular stores. There’s just one small caveat: they only accept cards with a minimum balance of $25.
Simply enter your card’s remaining balance, and the website will generate an offer. If the price is right, you can receive payment via PayPal for instant access to your funds. While they offer alternative payment methods like Zelle and Cash App, remember that these might incur temporary delays.
Cash4GiftCardsAmerica presents a compelling option for those seeking a quick and convenient way to unlock the value of unwanted gift cards and gain instant access to cash in their PayPal account. Just remember to factor in potential delays based on your chosen payment method.
5. BuyBackWorld
BuyBackWorld offers a trustworthy solution for converting plastic rectangles into cold, hard cash deposited directly into your PayPal account.
With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and a “Great” 4.2-star rating on Trustpilot, BuyBackWorld has a solid reputation for legitimacy. Here’s how to unlock the value trapped in your gift card:
- Head over to BuyBackWorld’s website.
- Locate the gift card issuer from the list of dropdown options.
- Enter the remaining balance on your gift card.
- If you have multiple cards of the same type, specify the quantity you want to sell.
- The website will then generate a personalized quote for your gift cards.
If the offer sounds good, simply accept it and mail your gift cards to BuyBackWorld. Don’t worry about shipping costs – they’ll provide a prepaid shipping label, making the process completely free.
Once BuyBackWorld receives your cards and verifies the balances, they’ll issue your payment within two business days using your preferred method. PayPal is certainly an option, but you can also choose from check, direct deposit, prepaid debit card, or a BuyBackWorld.com gift card for future purchases on their platform.
6. Yard sale
Yard sales can be an option to consider. They offer the potential to keep 100% of the profits since you avoid listing or commission fees associated with online platforms.
However, there are some key factors to keep in mind. Yard sales typically attract bargain hunters, meaning you might not get the full value for your gift card. People attending yard sales often look for deeply discounted items, so be prepared to potentially sell your gift card for less than its face value.
Ultimately, the success of selling gift cards at a yard sale depends on finding the right buyer at the right time. If you’re comfortable negotiating and willing to accept a potentially lower price, a yard sale could be a viable option. Just be realistic about your expectations and price your gift cards accordingly.
7. ClipKard
ClipKard is another platform that allows you to convert unwanted gift cards into cash, which is then deposited directly into your PayPal account.
Here’s a breakdown of ClipKard’s process:
- Visit the ClipKard website and navigate to the selling section.
- From the dropdown menu, select the brand of your gift card.
- Enter the remaining balance on your card and specify the quantity you want to sell, if applicable.
- ClipKard will then analyze your information and generate a personalized quote for your gift cards.
If the offer sounds enticing, accepting it initiates the mailing process. ClipKard provides two shipping options: USPS First Class Mail and USPS Priority Mail. The good news is they’ll cover the shipping cost for First Class Mail, ensuring you get the full quoted amount. However, if you choose the speedier Priority Mail option, ClipKard will deduct the calculated cost from your final payout, which you can easily review beforehand.
You’ll receive your payment once ClipKard receives and verifies your gift cards. Here, you can choose between a PayPal deposit or a traditional check. Opting for PayPal allows for the fastest access to your funds, typically deposited within one business day of verification.
8. Use your prepaid gift cards wherever PayPal is accepted
Did you know you can link those Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover prepaid gift cards directly to your PayPal account?
This simple step transforms your gift card from a store-specific burden into a versatile spending tool. Once linked, you can use the gift card balance like any other debit or credit card stored in your PayPal account. Imagine the possibilities! Everywhere that accepts PayPal as a payment method becomes a potential place to spend your gift card balance.
The beauty of it is that PayPal boasts widespread acceptance as a payment option. You can use your gift card balance for online purchases at countless websites, send money to friends or family, or even shop in stores that accept PayPal at checkout.
Remember, before hitting “pay,” ensure your linked gift card has sufficient funds to cover the entire purchase. With some planning, you can easily transform that unwanted gift card into a valuable spending tool!
9. Craigslist
Craigslist can be a platform to consider, offering the advantage of keeping 100% of the profits. Listing items on Craigslist is free, and they don’t charge commission fees, so the full sale price goes directly to you.
However, there are some things to keep in mind. Unlike online marketplaces with buyer protections, Craigslist transactions require greater caution. It’s important to meet buyers in a safe, public location and be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true.
Selling unwanted gift cards can be a viable option if you’re comfortable navigating Craigslist and willing to negotiate the price. Just remember to prioritize safety and realistic pricing expectations.
Honorable mentions
While some resources might have previously recommended Gameflip and GiftCash for converting gift cards to PayPal cash, it appears these platforms no longer offer PayPal as a payout option.
However, I’ve included them here as they might still be valuable resources. Both platforms allow you to trade unwanted gift cards for cash, albeit through alternative methods like bank transfer, check, or Payoneer. These could be worth exploring if you’re open to receiving payment outside of PayPal.
Remember, constantly evolving policies and payment options necessitate staying informed. Always double-check a platform’s current payout methods before initiating any transactions.
The bottom line
Don’t worry—there are multiple ways to transform those unwanted gift cards into spendable cash for your PayPal account!
For a streamlined experience, consider dedicated gift card resale websites like CardCash and Raise. BuyBackWorld is another reputable platform. These platforms offer a user-friendly process and handle the entire transaction. Simply provide your gift card details, receive a quote, and get paid directly into your PayPal account upon acceptance. However, the quoted price might be lower than the card’s face value.
Explore general online marketplaces if you prefer more control over the selling price. Craigslist allows you to set your own asking price, potentially maximizing your return. However, remember that such platforms often lack the buyer protections found on dedicated gift card resale sites. Exercise caution when dealing with potential buyers and prioritize meeting in safe, public locations.
eBay can also be an option but with limitations. They only allow specific gift cards, like those from authorized sellers or those associated with bankrupt companies. Always double-check their guidelines before listing.
Speed is your priority? Cash4GiftCardsAmerica might be the answer. They boast payouts within an hour directly to your PayPal account. However, remember that such speed might come with a slightly lower payout than other options.
Ultimately, the best platform depends on your priorities. No matter your choice, remember to research and compare payout options and fees before committing to any platform. Also, double-check the platform’s current payout methods before initiating any transactions, as policies can change.
With so many options, you’re no longer limited to letting unwanted gift cards gather dust. By following these tips and exploring the resources I’ve mentioned, you can easily convert them into valuable PayPal cash, ready to spend on whatever your heart desires.