Redeeming an Amazon gift card takes less than a minute once you find the right page. You can apply a physical scratch-off card or a digital code straight to your account balance using either a web browser or the Amazon Shopping App. Once you load the funds, they stay in your account balance and apply automatically to your next eligible purchase.
You don't need to re-enter the code every time you buy something. This guide walks through the exact steps for web and mobile redemption, explains how to handle common error messages, and covers restrictions you should know before you start.
Where to Find Your Claim Code
Every Amazon gift card features a 14 or 15-character alphanumeric claim code. Where you find this code depends on whether you hold a physical card or a digital delivery.
- Physical Cards: Turn the card over. Most cards feature a silver scratch-off panel or a peel-back sticker. Use a coin or a flat edge to gently reveal the code underneath. Be careful not to scratch too hard, as damaging the letters makes manual entry difficult. Note that the long serial number printed near the barcode is not your claim code.
- Digital Codes: If you received an e-gift card via email, look for a block of text containing the claim code. You can highlight and copy this code directly to your device's clipboard.
How to Redeem on a Desktop Browser
Using a web browser is the fastest route if you are sitting at a computer.
- Head to the Amazon Redeem Page.
- Sign in to the specific Amazon account where you want the funds stored. Check the top-right corner to confirm you're logged into the correct profile. Gift card balances are non-transferable once applied.
- Type or paste your 14 or 15-character claim code into the designated text box. You don't need to include the dashes.
- Click the Apply to Your Balance button.
The funds instantly reflect in your account balance. You can verify this by checking your account dashboard.
How to Redeem Using the Mobile App
If you prefer using your phone or tablet, you can redeem codes directly inside the mobile app.
- Open the Amazon app and verify you're signed into your preferred account.
- Tap the profile icon (the human silhouette) at the bottom toolbar.
- Scroll down until you locate the Gift Card Balance section, then tap on it.
- Tap Redeem Gift Card.
- Type your claim code manually, or tap the camera icon to Scan your claim code using your phone camera.
- Tap Apply to your balance.
How to Redeem Directly at Checkout
You don't necessarily have to load a gift card to your balance ahead of time. You can apply a code right when you place an order.
- Add your desired items to your shopping cart and proceed to checkout.
- On the payment selection screen, look for the text box labeled Add a gift card or promotion code or voucher.
- Enter your claim code into that field and click Apply.
The value of the card will subtract from your order total right away. If any balance remains on the card, it stays attached to your account for future purchases.
Fixing Common Redemption Errors
Sometimes a code fails to go through on the first try. Here is what specific error messages mean and how to fix them.
Invalid or Unrecognized Code
This is usually caused by a simple typo. Double-check your entry for common letter and number confusions. For example, a capital letter "O" looks identical to the number zero "0", and an uppercase "I" can look like a lowercase "l" or the number "1". If you received a digital code, copy and paste it directly from your email instead of typing it character by character.
Regional Currency Mismatch
Amazon gift cards are strictly tied to the country marketplace where they were purchased. A card bought on Amazon.com (United States) will throw an error if you try to redeem it on Amazon.ca (Canada) or Amazon.co.uk (United Kingdom). Always log into the exact regional marketplace that matches where the card was bought.
Code Already Applied
If you see a message stating the code has already been used, check your account's gift card activity history. It's possible you or another family member sharing your household account scanned or typed the code earlier without noticing the balance update.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my Amazon gift card balance to another account?
No. Once you apply a gift card claim code to an Amazon account, that balance is locked permanently to that profile. You cannot transfer those funds to a friend, family member, or a different personal account.
Do Amazon gift cards expire?
Funds added to your Amazon balance from a gift card do not expire. However, promotional gift codes or certificates given out by customer service or specific brand promotions often carry strict expiration dates, which are noted in the original promotional email.
What happens to my balance if I return an item bought with a gift card?
When you return an item purchased using a gift card balance, Amazon refunds those funds directly back to your Amazon gift card balance. They typically appear in your account within a few hours of the return being scanned by the carrier.
Can I buy other gift cards using an Amazon gift card balance?
No. Amazon restricts customers from purchasing third-party gift cards (such as gaming, restaurant, or other retail gift cards) using an existing Amazon gift card balance. You must use a traditional credit or debit card for those purchases.
