How to Redeem an Amazon Gift Card

Amazon gift cards are one of the most popular gift options worldwide — but if you've never redeemed one before, the process can feel a little confusing. This guide walks you through every step, from scratching the card to applying your balance at checkout.

What You'll Need

  • An active Amazon account (free to create)
  • Your gift card claim code (the alphanumeric code printed on the card or sent via email)
  • A web browser or the Amazon mobile app

Step-by-Step: Redeeming on Amazon.com

  1. Sign in to your Amazon account at amazon.com.
  2. Hover over "Account & Lists" in the top-right corner and select "Account".
  3. Scroll down to the "Gift cards" section and click "Redeem a Gift Card".
  4. Enter your claim code exactly as shown — it's typically in the format XXXX-XXXXXX-XXXX.
  5. Click "Apply to your balance". The amount will be instantly added to your Amazon account.
  6. At checkout, your gift card balance will be automatically applied to eligible purchases.

Redeeming via the Amazon Mobile App

If you prefer using your phone, the process is just as simple:

  1. Open the Amazon app and tap the menu icon (☰).
  2. Go to Account → Gift Cards → Redeem a Gift Card.
  3. Type or scan the claim code using your camera.
  4. Tap "Apply to Balance" to confirm.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Problem Likely Cause Solution
Invalid claim code Typo or incorrect format Re-enter carefully; check for O vs 0, I vs 1
Code already redeemed Card was previously used Contact Amazon support with proof of purchase
Balance not showing at checkout Balance may not apply to third-party sellers Ensure the item is "Sold by Amazon"
Region mismatch Card purchased for a different country's store Use the correct regional Amazon site (e.g., amazon.co.uk)

Tips to Maximize Your Amazon Gift Card

  • Wait for sales: Amazon runs frequent deals (Prime Day, Black Friday). Let your balance sit until a big sale hits.
  • Combine with coupons: Amazon's on-site coupons stack with gift card balances.
  • Check your balance anytime: Visit Account → Gift Cards to see your remaining balance before shopping.
  • Use for subscriptions: Amazon gift card balance can cover Prime membership renewals.

Does Amazon Gift Card Balance Expire?

Good news: Amazon gift card balances do not expire. Once added to your account, the balance stays there indefinitely. There are also no fees for holding or using the balance.

Final Thoughts

Redeeming an Amazon gift card takes less than two minutes once you know where to go. The key is adding the balance to your account first — that way, it automatically applies at every checkout without you having to remember a separate code.