How To Make Money Trading Gift Cards

Introduction.

Gift cards have become a popular way to gift money while keeping it specific to a store or brand.

But did you know there’s an entire marketplace where people trade gift cards for cash or other value? Trading gift cards can be a legitimate way to earn some extra money if done right.

Whether you’re sitting on a stack of unused cards or looking to flip them for profit, this article will show you how to turn those little plastic cards into cash.

Why Gift Card Trading Is Worth Your Time

Gift card trading is more than a side hustle—it’s a growing market. Reports suggest that the global gift card market will reach $1.9 trillion by 2030.

Many people receive gift cards they don’t need, and instead of letting them go to waste, they sell or trade them. For someone looking to make money, this creates an opportunity.

Platforms for buying and selling gift cards make the process simple. Whether you want to trade directly with others or use online marketplaces, the options are endless.

Plus, it doesn’t require a lot of technical knowledge—just a good understanding of how the process works.

How Do I Start Making Money Trading Gift Cards?

1. Find the Right Platform

Several platforms specialize in trading gift cards, such as:

CardCash: Offers up to 92% of a card’s value in cash or trade credit.
Raise: Let you list your cards for sale at a price you choose.
Gift Card Granny: Compares rates from various platforms to help you get the best deal.

Look for platforms that have good reviews, a solid reputation, and reasonable fees. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s worth exploring a few to see what works for you.

2. Know the Value of Your Cards

Not all gift cards are created equal. High-demand cards, like those for Amazon, Walmart, or iTunes, fetch better rates.

On the other hand, cards for niche stores might be harder to sell. Research the demand before listing your cards.

3. Trade Smartly

Timing is everything. Cards for seasonal stores (like holiday decorations) might sell better during specific months.

If you’re flipping cards, buy low and sell high. For example, buy discounted cards during sales or promotions and resell them later.

4. Avoid Scams

The gift card market isn’t scam-proof. Here are some tips to stay safe:

Use trusted platforms for trading.
Never send card details before receiving payment.
Be cautious when trading with individuals outside of reputable platforms.

5. Offer Competitive Prices

If you’re selling directly, make sure your price is competitive. Check rates on multiple platforms to set a fair price that attracts buyers while still leaving you with a profit.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Profit

Stay Updated: Market demand fluctuates. Stay informed about trends and popular cards.
Build Trust: If you’re trading directly with buyers, build a reputation for being reliable and honest.
Leverage Discounts: Buy gift cards at a discount from sites like Groupon or during promotions, then sell them for a profit.
Use Social Media: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Reddit have communities for gift card trading. Just exercise caution when dealing with strangers.

Common Questions About Trading Gift Cards

1. Can I sell partially used gift cards?

Yes, many platforms allow you to sell cards with remaining balances. Just be upfront about the value left on the card.

2. How much can I earn?

It depends on the card’s value and demand. High-demand cards often sell for 80–90% of their face value, while niche cards might go for less.

3. Are there fees involved?

Most platforms charge fees for selling cards. For example, Raise takes a commission of up to 15%. Always check the fee structure before listing your cards.

4. Is trading gift cards legal?

Yes, trading gift cards is completely legal, provided you’re not dealing with stolen or fraudulently obtained cards.

Conclusion

Trading gift cards can be a flexible and profitable way to make money, especially if you’re smart about choosing the right platforms, staying alert for scams, and understanding market demand.

Are you ready to turn your gift cards into extra cash? Or do you have questions about getting started? Share your thoughts below!