You can transfer money from most gift cards to a bank account, but the method depends on what type of card you have

Not every gift card lets you move the balance directly into a bank account. Visa and Mastercard gift cards usually can, because they work like debit cards. Store gift cards (like Target or Amazon) typically cannot be transferred directly — the money stays locked to that store. The steps you take depend on which type you're holding, and some routes are faster than others.

The most common way is to use the gift card to buy something, then return it for a refund to your bank account. Another option, if your card allows it, is to link it to a payment app like PayPal or Venmo and move the balance that way. A few cards let you withdraw cash at an ATM. We'll walk through each one so you can pick the path that works for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Visa and Mastercard gift cards can usually be transferred to your bank account through a payment app or by using them to make a purchase and requesting a refund.
  • Store gift cards (Target, Amazon, Walmart) cannot be transferred to a bank account — the money must be spent at that store or converted to cash through specific methods.
  • Some gift cards charge a fee to check your balance or withdraw cash, so read the card's terms before you start.
  • The fastest method is usually linking the card to PayPal or Venmo if the card issuer allows it, which can take a few minutes.
  • If you use the purchase-and-return method, keep your receipt and contact the store's customer service to confirm the refund goes to your bank account, not back to the gift card.

Transferring a Visa or Mastercard gift card through a payment app

If your gift card is a Visa or Mastercard, the fastest route is usually PayPal or Venmo. Log into your PayPal account, go to your wallet, and select the option to add a card. Enter the gift card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit code on the back). PayPal will treat it like a regular debit card. You can then transfer the balance from PayPal to your linked bank account, though this usually takes one to three business days.

Venmo works similarly — add the gift card as a payment method, then use it to send money to yourself (if you have a Venmo account linked to your bank) or to a friend who can send it back. This is slower and less direct, so PayPal is usually the better choice. Square Cash and Google Pay also accept gift cards as payment methods, though the process varies slightly by app.

One thing to watch: some gift cards have restrictions that prevent them from being added to payment apps. The app will tell you when ready if the card won't work. If that happens, move to the next method.

Using a gift card to make a purchase and requesting a refund to your bank account

This method works for any gift card — Visa, Mastercard, or store-specific. Buy something you actually want or need, then return it. When you return the item, tell the cashier or customer service representative that you want the refund to go to your bank account, not back to the gift card. Some stores will ask for your bank details on the spot; others will mail a check or initiate a bank transfer.

The catch is timing. Refunds usually take five to ten business days to appear in your account, and some stores only process refunds on certain days of the week. Keep your receipt and the item in its original condition. If the store refuses to refund to your bank account, ask to speak with a manager — most major retailers will do this if you explain the situation.

This method works best if you were planning to buy something anyway. If you're just trying to move the money, it adds an extra step and a waiting period.

Withdrawing cash from an ATM with a gift card

Some Visa and Mastercard gift cards let you withdraw cash at ATMs, though not all. Check the card's terms or call the number on the back to ask if cash withdrawals are allowed. If they are, find an ATM that accepts your card's network (Visa ATMs for Visa cards, Mastercard ATMs for Mastercard cards), insert the card, and withdraw cash as you would with a debit card.

Be aware that many gift cards charge a fee for ATM withdrawals — sometimes $2 to $3 per transaction. If your card has a small balance, the fee might eat into what you're trying to move. Once you have the cash, you can deposit it into your bank account at a branch, ATM, or through mobile deposit if your bank offers it.

This method is useful if you need cash when ready, but it's not the most direct way to move money into your account.

What to do with store gift cards that can't be transferred

Amazon, Target, Walmart, and other store-specific gift cards cannot be transferred to a bank account. The money is locked to that retailer. Your options are limited: spend it at that store, give it to someone else, or sell it on a gift card resale site.

If you sell it on a site like CardCash or Raise, you'll receive less than the card's face value — usually 80 to 95 percent, depending on demand. The site handles the transaction and sends you the money via PayPal or direct deposit. This takes a few days and costs you a percentage, but it's a way to convert the card to cash if you have no other use for it.

Some people also donate store gift cards to charities or food banks, which may be an option if you don't need the money urgently.

Fees and limits to watch for

Gift cards sometimes come with hidden costs. Visa and Mastercard gift cards may charge a monthly maintenance fee (usually $1 to $2) if you don't use them within a certain time frame. Some charge a fee just to check your balance. ATM withdrawals, as mentioned, often cost $2 to $3 per transaction.

There's also a limit on how much you can transfer at once through some payment apps. PayPal, for example, may have daily or monthly limits on transfers to your bank account depending on your account history. Check your app's terms or contact customer service if you're moving a large balance.

Read the fine print on your gift card before you start. The terms are usually on the back of the card or on the issuer's website. Knowing the fees upfront helps you choose the method that costs you the least.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer a store gift card like Amazon or Target to my bank account?

No, store gift cards are locked to that retailer. You can spend the balance at that store, sell the card on a resale site for less than face value, or give it to someone else. You cannot move the money directly to a bank account.

What if my gift card won't link to PayPal?

Some cards have restrictions that prevent them from being added to payment apps. Try a different app like Google Pay or Square Cash. If none of them work, use the purchase-and-return method instead — buy something, return it, and request the refund go to your bank account.

How long does it take to transfer money from a gift card to my bank account?

It depends on the method. PayPal transfers usually take one to three business days. Refunds from store returns take five to ten business days. ATM cash deposits are when ready if you deposit at a branch, or one to two business days if you use mobile deposit.

Will I lose money if I transfer a gift card balance?

You may lose money if you sell the card on a resale site (usually 5 to 20 percent of the balance) or if the card charges ATM withdrawal fees. Direct transfers through PayPal or refunds from purchases don't cost you anything extra.

What if the gift card has a small balance left on it?

If the balance is very small, the cost of transferring it (like an ATM fee) might exceed what you're moving. In that case, it's often cheaper to spend the remaining balance at the store or donate the card. Check the fees before you decide which method to use.