Are you looking for a way to turn your unused Visa gift cards into cash? If so, you’re in luck. Whether you received the card as a present, purchased it as part of a special offer, or earned it doing surveys and paid market research, you might wonder what to do with it next.
Converting your Visa gift cards into cash is not only possible but easier than you might think.
Knowing how to exchange Visa gift cards for cash may be the best option to ensure that you spend the money present on the card. This added flexibility of being able to spend the whole balance anywhere would be nice.
This post will go through more details about a few of the finest methods to convert Visa gift cards into cash or into things that you use daily.
So, whether your gift card is from a specific store or simply a Visa-branded card, read on for the steps you need to take.
If you’re looking for some additional money, we’ve compiled a list of the finest money-making applications that allow you to cash out your profits as Visa gift cards – or even directly to your PayPal account.
- Swagbucks (a free $10 welcome bonus is included) – ideal for earning money by playing games, watching videos, and more.
- SurveyJunkie – is our top pick for the highest-paying survey app, with focus groups paying out as much as $150 per hour.
- Ibotta (gets you a $20 bonus) – our favourite cashback app for getting money back on items you’d be buying anyway, such as meals.
- MyPoints (a $5 welcome bonus) – an app that provides a lot of money-making possibilities.
- InboxDollars (a $5 sign up bonus) – best for earning money in different ways like playing games, watching videos and taking surveys.
17 Ways to Use Visa Gift Card as Cash
Sometimes you may find yourself with a Visa gift card and no idea how to use it. If you’re in this situation, don’t worry. Here are a few easy ways to turn your Visa gift card into cash.
Whichever method you choose, turning your Visa gift card into cash is easy and doesn’t have to be complicated.
1. Use Gift Card Exchange Websites
The most straightforward approach to exchanging your gift cards for cold hard cash is to utilize a gift card exchange website like Gift Card Granny or CardCash. Simply go on their website and sell your gift card.
Gift Card Granny and CardCash also accept Visa gift cards. You may easily exchange Visa gift cards for cash payments.
The best news is that they give up to 90% of card value in cash.
Raise has both iOS and Android app that does this, but they’ll charge you a 15% fee for doing so.
- Check multiple sites: Compare offers on different gift card exchange websites to get the best deal.
- Verify website credibility: Look for user reviews or ratings to ensure the website’s reliability before proceeding.
Related: Best places to sell your gift cards!
2. Make a Purchase with Visa Gift Card
You can also use your Visa gift card as payment toward a purchase.
This is a great way to get rid of an unwanted gift card and buy something that you actually want or need.
To do this, simply find a website that accepts Visa gift cards and enter your card information when prompted.
Select the gift card as your payment method when prompted during checkout. You’ll then enter the gift card number and PIN (if applicable) to complete the purchase.
- Split payment: If your purchase exceeds the gift card balance, ask the cashier to split the payment between your gift card and another payment method.
- Online shopping tip: Use the gift card for partial payment online if the platform allows.
3. Exchange for Another Gift Card
Another option for exchanging your Visa gift card for cash is to swap it for another gift card. This can be done using a service like CardSwap or GiftCardBin.
With CardSwap, you can exchange your unwanted gift cards for ones that you’ll actually use. All you have to do is enter the brand and card value of the gift card you want to exchange, and they’ll show you a list of available cards.
GiftCardBin is similar to CardSwap, but they also accept physical gift cards. So if you have a visa gift card that you don’t want, you can mail it to them and receive a different gift card in return.
- Negotiate the swap: When using services like CardSwap or GiftCardBin, try to negotiate for a better exchange value if possible.
- Check for special offers: Some platforms may offer bonuses or better rates for certain brands or card values.
4. Add To PayPal Balance
If you have a PayPal account, you can add your Visa gift card to your PayPal balance and use it like any other payment method.
To do this, simply log in to your PayPal account and click on “Add Money.” From there, you’ll enter the amount of money you want to add and select your Visa gift card as the payment method.
You’ll then be prompted to enter the gift card number and PIN. Once you’ve done that, the money will be added to your PayPal balance and can be used like any other payment method.
- Log in to your PayPal account
- Choose “Wallet” from the top menu
- Select “Link a card or bank” on the left side (you may have to click “See all” first)
- Follow the instructions that come up
- When PayPal requests further information, provide your Visa gift card data
- Verify the card: Before adding to PayPal, register your Visa gift card online to match your PayPal address, ensuring it’s accepted.
- Small amounts transfer: Use this method for transferring small amounts to avoid any issues with PayPal’s security measures.
5. Add to Venmo Account
If you have a Venmo account, you can add your Visa gift card to your balance and use it.
To do this, simply login to your Venmo account and click on the “…” menu. From there, select “Settings” and then “Payment Methods.”
From there, you’ll select “Add Payment Method” and choose “Gift Card.” You’ll then be prompted to enter your gift card number and PIN.
Once you’ve done that, the money will be added to your Venmo balance and can be used.
- Venmo transfer to bank: After adding to Venmo, transfer the balance to your bank account directly from Venmo.
- Share with friends: Use the balance to split bills or send money to friends on Venmo, which they can then cash out.
6. Buy Bitcoin with It
Another option for converting your Visa gift card to cash is to use it to buy Bitcoin. This can be done using a service like Paxful.
With Paxful, you can buy Bitcoin with your Visa gift card. To do this, simply create an account and select your preferred payment method. From there, you’ll enter the amount of Bitcoin you want to buy and complete the transaction.
- Compare rates: Check different platforms for the best exchange rates and lowest fees.
- Security first: Use only reputable cryptocurrency exchanges to minimize the risk of fraud.
7. Pay Your Bills With Visa Gift Card
You can also use your Visa gift card to pay your bills. This is a great option if you have a bill that you need to pay but don’t have the cash on hand.
To do this, simply enter your gift card number and PIN when prompted. You’ll then be able to choose how much you want to pay toward your bill.
The service provider should accept visa gift cards and keep in mind that there may be a fee for using your gift card to pay bills.
- Direct payment: Some utility companies allow direct payment with a Visa gift card. Check with your service provider.
- Partial payments: Use the card to make partial payments if you can’t cover the entire bill, helping to manage monthly expenses.
8. Donate Your Visa Gift Card to Charity
If you don’t want or need the cash, you can always donate your Visa gift card to charity. This is a great way to get rid of an unwanted gift card and help out a good cause.
To do this, simply find a charity that accepts Visa gift cards and make a donation. You’ll then be able to choose how much you want to donate.
- Tax deduction: Keep a receipt of your donation for potential tax deductions.
- Choose wisely: Select charities that confirm they can accept and utilize Visa gift cards directly.
9. Sell On Facebook Marketplace
Another option for converting your Visa gift card to cash is to sell it on Facebook Marketplace. This is a great option if you have a large network of friends and family.
To do this, simply create a listing for your visa gift card and include all the relevant information. Be sure to set a fair price so that you don’t end up losing money in the transaction.
Once your listing is live, simply wait for someone to purchase it. Once they do, you’ll receive the payment and can then withdraw the cash from your bank account.
- Local buyers: Look for local buyers to avoid shipping costs and get cash faster.
- Safe meetups: Arrange transactions in public places for safety.
10. Sell It On Craigslist
If you don’t want to sell it to a friend or family member, you can always sell it on Craigslist. This is a great option if you need to get rid of your visa gift card quickly.
To do this, simply create a listing for your visa gift card and include all the relevant information. Be sure to set a fair price so that you get people interested.
Once your listing is live, simply wait for someone to contact you. Once they do, you can sell it and receive the payment.
- Use clear photos: Include clear images of the gift card (with sensitive numbers hidden) to attract buyers.
- Cash transactions: Insist on cash transactions to avoid scams.
Read also: Best places to sell your Yugioh cards!
11. Give It To A Friend Or Family Member
If you don’t want or need the cash, you can always give your visa gift card to a friend or family member. This is a great way to get rid of an unwanted gift card and help out someone you care about.
To do this, simply find someone who could use the visa gift card and give it to them. You can also include a note with the gift card if you want.
- Personal touch: Add a personal note or wrap the gift card creatively to make the gift more special.
- Consider their needs: Choose someone who shops at places where Visa is accepted or who you know could use the extra cash.
12. Buy Items and Flip Them for Cash
Another option for converting your visa gift card to cash is to buy items and then sell them for a profit. This is a great option if you’re good at finding deals.
To do this, simply find items that you can buy with your visa gift card and then sell them for a higher price. You can use sites like eBay or Amazon to find potential buyers.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in the cost of shipping when selling items online.
- Market research: Research items that are in high demand and short supply to flip for a higher profit.
- Timing is key: Look for seasonal items that can be bought off-season and sold at a peak time for higher margins.
13. Cash It In For A Money Order
If you need cash immediately, you can always cash in your visa gift card for a money order. This is a great option if you have a place that accepts money orders but not visa gift cards.
To do this, simply take your visa gift card to a place that sells money orders. You’ll then be able to exchange your visa gift card for a money order.
Keep in mind that there may be a fee for exchanging your visa gift card for a money order.
The money order, once completed, may then be deposited into your bank account to be spent as straight cash.
- Location search: Find a grocery store or post office that allows the purchase of money orders with a Visa gift card.
- Fee comparison: Compare fees at different locations to minimize costs.
14. Redeem It For Paying Tax
If you owe taxes, you can actually use your visa gift card to pay them. This is a great option if you don’t have the cash on hand to pay your taxes.
To do this, simply enter your gift card number and PIN when prompted. You’ll then be able to choose how much you want to pay toward your tax bill.
Keep in mind that there may be a fee for using your gift card to pay taxes.
- Direct IRS payment: Check if the IRS website accepts Visa gift card payments directly for tax bills.
- Estimate fees: Be aware of any transaction fees to ensure you’re paying the correct amount towards your taxes.
15. Buy Gas with Visa Gift Card
If you need to buy gas, you can actually use your visa gift card. This is a great option if you have a visa gift card with a high balance.
To do this, simply find a gas station that accepts visa gift cards and then pay for your gas with your card. Keep in mind that some gas stations may have a limit on how much you can spend.
- Pay inside: To avoid holds on your card, pay for gas inside the station instead of at the pump.
- Exact amount: If possible, request to charge the exact amount left on the gift card to use its full value.
16. Use A Gift Card Exchange Kiosk
If you need cash immediately, you can always use a gift card exchange kiosk. This is a great option if there’s a kiosk near you.
To do this, simply take your visa gift card to a gift card exchange kiosk and exchange it for cash. Keep in mind that there may be a fee for using the kiosk.
Simply enter the details of your gift card into the kiosk, which will contain whatever information is printed on the front of the card.
After that, you’ll get various offers to select from. You will receive a voucher to take to the cashier after making your selection, which makes it one of the methods for actually receiving money with your Visa gift card in hand.
- Location finder: Use an online locator to find the nearest kiosk that accepts Visa gift cards.
- Check rates: Rates can vary by location, so check the current rate at the kiosk before proceeding.
17. Pay Medical and Dental Bills
If you have a visa gift card and need to pay medical or dental bills, there are a few options available to you. You can use the visa gift card to pay online or over the phone.
You can also take the visa gift card to the office and pay with cash or a check. If you have a balance on the visa gift card, you can use it to pay your bill in full or make a partial payment.
- Office inquiry: Confirm with the medical office if they accept Visa gift cards directly for payment.
- Partial payment strategy: If the bill exceeds your card balance, ask if you can pay a portion with the gift card and the rest with another method.
Tips When Converting Visa Gift Cards to Cash
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when converting your visa gift card to cash:
- Check the balance of your visa gift card before trying to convert it to cash.
- Be aware of any fees associated with converting your visa gift card to cash. These fees can vary depending on the method you choose.
- Try to find a method that doesn’t involve fees. This will help you keep more of the cash you’re able to convert.
- If you’re selling items online, be sure to factor in the cost of shipping when pricing your items.
- When using a gift card exchange kiosk, be sure to compare offers before making a selection. This will help you get the best deal possible.
Final Thoughts
There are a few different ways that you can convert visa gift cards to cash. You can use the visa gift card to pay bills, buy items and sell them for a profit, or exchange the visa gift card for a money order.
You can also use the visa gift card to pay taxes or medical and dental bills. If you need cash immediately, you can use a gift card exchange kiosk.
Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with some of these methods. However, if you need to convert visa gift cards to cash, these are some of the best options available.
FAQs
What are the Types Of Visa Gift Cards
Visa provides distinct gift cards, all of which may be purchased on their main website. These are comparable to a Visa debit card in that you can use Visa gift cards instead of cash, much like a debit or credit card.
You do not need to connect the card to your bank account because it is already loaded with money. A Visa gift card is already preloaded with money.
When you purchase a gift card, you must choose the amount; the maximum is typically around $500.
The Visa gift cards available are as follows:
- Vanilla Gift Card
- GiftCards.com
- GiftCardGranny.com
- PerfectGift.com
The most frequent gift card is the Vanilla Gift Card. This card may be used for non-contact transactions, such as purchases made over the web, by phone, or through the mail.
The card is only accepted at businesses that accept Visa cards, which are mostly located in the United States.
How Do I Turn My Vanilla Visa Gift Card Into Cash?
There are a few ways to convert your Vanilla Visa gift card into cash. You can either do a direct deposit, use a peer-to-peer payment service, or visit a local grocery store that has a cash back option.
The Vanilla gift card is a Visa prepaid gift card that comes in denominations of $10, $25, $50, and $100. It’s ideal for special occasions or as a thoughtful present to people if you don’t know what to get them for an occasion.
If you want to convert a vanilla Visa gift card to cash, the procedure is similar to that of a conventional Visa gift card. All of the methods outlined in this post may be used to begin.
Can you use a Visa gift card at an ATM?
No, you cannot use a Visa gift card at an ATM.
Visa gift cards may not be used at ATMs since they usually do not come with a PIN. That is, to protect against fraud, ATMs only allow you to withdraw cash if you have a PIN. This implies that any card that does not include this will be unable to finish the transaction.
There are, of course, many alternative methods to earn money from your Visa gift card that you’ve probably seen throughout this post. That said, the majority of them need a few extra actions to arrive at that point.
While they’re all rather simple, none of them is as easy as withdrawing the total balance in cash from an ATM.
How Do I Check The Balance Of My Vanilla Visa Gift Card?
There are a few ways that you can check the balance of your Vanilla Visa gift card. You can either visit the website, call the customer service number, or look for a sticker on the back of the card.
The Vanilla Visa gift card is a prepaid visa card that can be used anywhere Visa is accepted. The card comes in denominations of $10, $25, $50, and $100.
How to transfer a Visa gift card to a bank account?
Setting up an account with PayPal or Venmo is the ideal method for receiving money. You may directly move the cash, but it will take a few days without charge.
If you need money immediately, exchange kiosks are your best bet. The only disadvantage of this approach is locating a shop that pays the cash and they take charges.
If you buy a money order with your gift card, you may sell it for cash right after.
Use an app or a website to sell your gift card. For the most money, select the option with the lowest costs.
You may also use your gift cards to pay your bills. You may use these cards to cover your monthly expenses if you don’t need a specific one.
Cash is still a secure method of payment in today’s society. If you have a gift card but wish to use a more convenient payment option, you may exchange it for cash using the methods described above. Now that you’ve learnt how to turn your Visa gift card into dollar bills, the next time someone offers you one, don’t forget to use one of these ways.
Can You Add a Visa Gift Card To Cash App?
No, you cannot add a Visa gift card to Cash App.
Cash App does not support the use of visa gift cards. You can link your bank account to Cash App and use that to transfer funds to your friends and family.
Can I Sell A Visa Gift Card To Others Legally?
Yes, you can sell visa gift cards to others.
There are many online gift card marketplaces where you can sell your visa gift card for cash. All you need to do is create an account and list your card for sale. Once someone buys your card, the money will be deposited into your account.
The most popular gift card marketplace is Cardpool.
Cardpool offers up to 92% of the card’s value. For example, if you have a $100 visa gift card, you can get $92 in cash.
Another popular gift card marketplace is Raise.
Raise offers up to 90% of the card’s value. So if you have a $100 visa gift card, you can get $90 in cash.
There are many other online gift card marketplaces where you can sell your visa gift card. Some of these include GiftCardGranny, CardCash, and GiftCardBin.
Can You Transfer Money From a Gift Card To A Debit Card?
The answer is no, you cannot convert a gift card to a debit card. You can, however, use Card Cash to add money to your PayPal account.
Remember to check out the beginning of this article for complete instructions on how to do that.
Finally, if you have a large number of gift cards, you might consider selling them on sites like Gift Card Granny to earn money for the cards.
Sumeet is a Certified Financial Education Instructor℠ (CFEI®) and founder of MoneyFromSideHustle. He is an experienced side hustler who replaced his full-time income with side hustles. His work has been quoted on major finance websites like CNBC, Yahoo! Finance, GOBankingRates, MSN, Nasdaq, AOL, and more. He has helped thousands of people find side hustles and is here to help you find your extra source of income. More about him.