Apple Gift Card FAQ: 15 Questions Answered by Experts

Got questions about Apple Gift Cards? You're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions and provided clear, expert answers to help you make the most of your Apple Gift Card.

---

Basic Questions

Q1: What can I buy with an Apple Gift Card?

Apple Gift Cards are incredibly versatile. You can use them for App Store purchases including apps, games, and in-app purchases. They work for iTunes content like music, movies, TV shows, and books. Apple subscriptions such as Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud+, and Apple Arcade are all covered. You can also use them at Apple retail stores for hardware and accessories, as well as for AppleCare protection plans.

Q2: Do Apple Gift Cards expire?

No. Apple Gift Cards never expire and have no maintenance fees. Your balance remains available indefinitely until you use it.

Q3: What's the difference between Apple Gift Cards and iTunes Gift Cards?

As of 2020, Apple unified its gift cards. The new Apple Gift Card replaced both the old iTunes Gift Cards and Apple Store Gift Cards. If you have an older iTunes Gift Card, it still works for digital purchases but cannot be used for hardware at Apple stores.

Q4: What denominations are Apple Gift Cards available in?

Physical cards come in $25, $50, and $100 options at most retailers. Digital Apple Gift Cards from Apple.com allow custom amounts from $10 to $200.

---

Redemption & Usage

Q5: How do I redeem my Apple Gift Card?

On iPhone or iPad, open the App Store, tap your profile picture, then select "Redeem Gift Card or Code." You can either use your camera to scan the card or manually enter the code. On Mac, open the App Store, click your name, then click "Redeem Gift Card." The process is the same for entering the code.

Q6: Can I use Apple Gift Cards to buy an iPhone or Mac?

Yes, but only the newer unified Apple Gift Cards work for hardware purchases. Older iTunes Gift Cards only work for digital content. You can use Apple Gift Cards at Apple retail stores or apple.com for any Apple product.

Q7: Can I use my Apple Gift Card balance for Apple Pay?

No. Apple Gift Card balances cannot be added to Apple Pay or used for Apple Pay transactions. The balance only works within the Apple ecosystem for eligible purchases.

Q8: Can I split payment between my Apple Gift Card and another payment method?

Yes. If your Apple Gift Card balance doesn't cover the full purchase, Apple will automatically charge the remaining amount to your default payment method.

---

Checking & Managing Balance

Q9: How do I check my Apple Gift Card balance?

There are several ways to check your balance. On your device, go to Settings, then tap your name, then Media & Purchases, and View Account to see your balance. Online, visit apple.com/shop/gift-cards and click "Check Your Balance." You can also call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE.

Q10: Can I transfer my Apple Gift Card balance to someone else?

No. Once redeemed to an Apple ID, the balance cannot be transferred to another account. Apple Gift Cards are also non-refundable, so be sure before redeeming.

---

Selling & Trading

Q11: Can I sell my unused Apple Gift Card?

Yes. Many platforms allow you to sell unused, unredeemed Apple Gift Cards for cash. Current market rates typically range from 75-85% of face value. Always use reputable platforms with buyer protection and never share your card code until payment is confirmed.

Q12: What affects the resale value of my Apple Gift Card?

Several factors impact resale value. Card denomination plays a role, as larger amounts sometimes get better rates. Verification status matters because unscratched cards often fetch higher prices. Current market demand fluctuates seasonally. The platform you choose also affects the final payout percentage.

---

Security & Scams

Q13: How do I know if my Apple Gift Card is legitimate?

Authentic Apple Gift Cards have specific features. They're only sold at authorized retailers. The 16-digit code is hidden under a scratch-off panel. The card packaging should be sealed and undamaged. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Q14: What are common Apple Gift Card scams?

Watch out for these red flags. Payment demands where someone claims you owe money and demands payment via gift cards are always scams. Government agencies never ask for gift card payments. Romance scams involve someone you've met online asking for gift cards. Tech support scams involve fake Apple support requesting gift cards to "fix" your device.

Q15: What should I do if I think I've been scammed?

Take immediate action. Contact Apple Support immediately at 1-800-275-2273. Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If you shared card details, the funds may already be gone, but reporting helps prevent future scams. Keep all receipts and communication records.

---

Quick Reference

Customer Support: 1-800-MY-APPLE (1-800-692-7753) Balance Check: apple.com/shop/gift-cards Report Scams: reportfraud.ftc.gov

---

Have an Apple Gift Card you don't need? Get instant quotes and sell it safely on our verified platform.