If you’ve ever received a gift card for a store you don’t usually shop at, you might’ve wondered: “Can i buy a gift card with a gift card online?” It’s a fair question and one that doesn’t have a straightforward yes or no answer. The short version? Sometimes you can, but often you can’t—and it really depends on the store’s policy.
Let’s break it down.
Store Gift Cards vs. Open-Loop Gift Cards
First, it helps to understand the type of gift card you’re dealing with. Most store-branded gift cards (like Target, Woolworths, or Walmart cards) are meant to be used only at that particular store. So, using them to buy another gift card—even from the same store—is usually not allowed.
Alternatively, cards such as those issued by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express—work more like debit cards. They can be used almost anywhere that accepts card payments, and they’re more flexible when it comes to buying other gift cards. That said, even with these cards, some stores might block gift card purchases as a security precaution.
What Retailers Say
For example, if you go to the Woolworths gift card help page, you’ll find that they clearly state:
“Woolworths Gift Cards are not valid for buying other physical or digital gift cards.”
Target has a similar rule. And most other big-name stores follow this same policy. Why? One big reason is to prevent fraud and misuse—such as someone using a stolen card to buy multiple gift cards that are harder to trace.
Are There Any Workarounds?
Some people try things like buying a product using a gift card, then returning it and using the refund to buy a new gift card. But this depends entirely on the store’s return and refund policy. Many places won’t allow this workaround, especially if the original item was purchased with a gift card.
A few stores might allow you to “split” your gift card—like exchanging a $100 card for two $50 cards—but that’s more of a store-specific courtesy than a standard option. It’s best not to count on it unless you’ve asked ahead of time.
A Smart Tip
If you’re stuck with a gift card you don’t really want, you might consider using it to buy groceries or everyday essentials. Then, use the money you would’ve spent on those items to buy a gift card you actually want.
Or, if your card is from a flexible brand like Visa, you can use it on platforms that sell a wide range of gift cards—like Prezzie or Nosh. These platforms sometimes let you convert one type of gift card into another, but again, this isn’t guaranteed everywhere.
Final Thoughts
So, is it actually possible to purchase a gift card using another gift card? Sometimes yes, but often no.
It really depends on:
- The type of gift card you’re using
- The store’s individual policy
- Whether it’s an open-loop or store-branded card
The safest way to know for sure is to either check the store’s website or ask customer service in-store. That way, you won’t waste time trying to make a purchase that isn’t allowed.
Gift cards are handy, but their limitations are worth knowing—especially if you’re hoping to trade one for another.
Also Read : Can you return gift cards for cash money online
