Got unwanted gift cards collecting dust? You're not alone - Americans have billions in unused gift cards each year. Fortunately, there are now numerous legitimate ways to convert these cards into cash, whether through online exchanges, local marketplaces, or even charitable donations. If you're looking to sell locally, check out our guide to local gift card selling options. From major exchange platforms to peer-to-peer marketplaces, understanding your options can help you maximize the value of those unused cards while staying safe from potential scams.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raise | 65-92% of card value | Direct marketplace selling | Visit Site |
| BuyBackWorld | 60-85% of card value | Quick cash payouts | Visit Site |
| CardCash | 70-90% of card value | Trading or selling cards | Visit Site |
| Facebook Marketplace | 80-95% of card value | Local in-person sales | Visit Site |
| CharityChoice | 100% tax deduction | Charitable donations | Visit Site |
| Social Media Exchange Groups | 75-90% of card value | Community trading | See details |
| Resellable Items Method | 70-100% potential return | Retail arbitrage | N/A |
| Raise (GCX) | 65-92% of card value | Instant online selling | Visit Site |
8 Best Places to Sell Unwanted Gift Cards (2025)
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Raise
Leading gift card exchange marketplace where US residents can sell unwanted cards for up to 85% of face value. Payment arrives via Direct Deposit or PayPal within 1-3 business days after card verification.
Unlike traditional buyback sites, Raise lets sellers set their own prices and list cards for free. Compare local selling options if you need immediate cash.
Key features:
- Free listings with no upfront fees
- Payment: Up to 85% of card value
- Seller protection on verified transactions
2. BuyBackWorld
Direct gift card buying service accepting cards from hundreds of major retailers. BuyBackWorld handles verification and pays within 48 hours of receipt, specializing in physical gift cards rather than store credit or digital codes.
Notable benefits:
- Payment within 2 business days
- Free shipping for sellers
- Accepts partial balance cards
3. CardCash
Versatile exchange platform offering multiple ways to liquidate unwanted gift cards - sell for cash, trade for other cards, or get Amazon credit at higher rates. CardCash typically pays 75-92% of card value, with premium rates for popular retailers.
What you get:
- Cash payment: 75-92% of card value
- Higher rates for Amazon trades
- Same-day payment for digital cards
- 1-year balance guarantee
4. Facebook Marketplace
A direct, person-to-person marketplace for selling gift cards locally at your chosen discount rate. The platform offers a built-in messaging system and location services to coordinate safe meetups. Local selling often yields better rates than online exchanges since there are no middleman fees.
Safety tips:
- Meet in public places (police stations, bank lobbies)
- Verify card balance together before exchange
- Accept cash only - no digital payments
5. CharityChoice
Convert unwanted gift cards into charitable donations through this nonprofit platform that partners with over 2,500 verified charities. Perfect for those who prefer tax-deductible donations over cash returns.
Key benefits:
- 100% tax deductible donations
- Choose from 2,500+ verified charities
- Immediate donation receipts provided
6. Social Media Gift Card Exchange Groups
Moderated Facebook groups with 100,000+ members dedicated to gift card trading and selling. These communities often have established rules, verification processes, and feedback systems to ensure safer transactions.
Trading guidelines:
- Verify member reputation before trading
- Use group-approved payment methods
- Document all transaction details
7. Using Gift Cards to Purchase Resellable Items
A strategic approach where you use gift cards to buy in-demand products from major retailers, then resell those items for cash through platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Facebook Marketplace. This method works especially well with cards from versatile retailers like Target, Walmart, or Best Buy.
Smart strategies:
- Focus on high-demand electronics, collectibles, and seasonal items
- Stack gift cards with store sales and clearance deals
- Research market prices before purchasing items
8. Raise (GCX)
Raise's Gift Card Exchange platform lets you sell unwanted gift cards directly to buyers through their secure marketplace. The service verifies all cards and handles payment processing, with sellers typically receiving 70-90% of the card's value via direct deposit or PayPal within 1-3 business days.
What you get:
- Free listings with no upfront fees
- Seller protection and balance verification
- Payment within 1-3 business days after sale
Final Words
With these 8 trusted platforms for selling unwanted gift cards, you can easily convert those unused cards into cash, earning anywhere from 60% to 92% of the card's value. Choose the option that best matches your priorities - whether that's maximum payout, instant cash, or guaranteed security - and turn those forgotten gift cards into money you can actually use.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Unwanted Gift Cards
What are the safest ways to sell unwanted gift cards online?
The safest options include established platforms like Raise (GCX), BuyBackWorld, and CardCash, which offer secure transactions and payment via Direct Deposit or PayPal. These platforms verify gift cards and typically process payments within two business days after verification.
Can I sell gift cards locally instead of online?
Yes, you can sell gift cards locally through Facebook Marketplace or local Facebook groups. When selling locally, it's recommended to meet buyers in safe, public locations for the exchange.
What if I want to donate my gift card instead of selling it?
CharityChoice allows US residents to donate unwanted gift card balances to over 2,500 different charities. This option converts your gift cards into charitable contributions rather than cash.
Can I trade my gift card for a different gift card?
Yes, platforms like CardCash allow users to exchange unwanted gift cards for other gift cards in addition to selling them for cash. Social media gift card exchange groups with over 100,000 members also facilitate trading between users.
