Looking to convert those unused gift cards into cash? You're not alone. Americans have approximately $21 billion in unused gift cards lying around.
Where to Sell Gift Cards Locally: Top 12 Places in 2025
This guide will show you the best local options to turn those cards into immediate cash, along with tips to get the highest value for your cards.
1. Target Gift Card Exchange
Target offers an in-store gift card exchange program where you can trade in various gift cards for Target store credit or cash. The exchange rate typically ranges from 75% to 85% of the card's value, and you can check the trade-in value directly at Guest Services.
2. Walmart Money Center
Walmart's Money Centers accept gift card exchanges in most locations. They offer competitive rates between 70% and 80% of the card's value, and you can get cash immediately. Plus, you don't need to be a Walmart customer to use this service.
3. Coinstar Exchange Kiosks
Found in many grocery stores, Coinstar Exchange kiosks offer instant cash for gift cards. While the exchange rate is slightly lower (60-70%), the convenience of immediate cash and widespread availability make it a practical option.
4. Local Pawn Shops
Pawn shops often buy gift cards at 50-70% of their value. While the rates are lower, they offer immediate cash and are easily accessible. Be sure to compare rates between different shops in your area.
5. GameStop
For gaming and electronics gift cards, GameStop offers competitive trade-in values, especially for their own gift cards. You can get store credit or cash, with store credit offering better rates (up to 85% of card value).
6. Check Cashing Stores
Many check cashing stores buy gift cards. Check out our guide on 24-hour check cashing locations to find places that might also handle gift card exchanges.
7. Local Buy and Sell Groups
Facebook Marketplace and local buying groups can be goldmines for gift card sales. Learn more about successful local selling in our guide to selling items locally.
8. CardCash Local Partners
CardCash partners with local retailers to provide in-person gift card exchange services. Rates typically range from 70% to 85% of the card's value.
9. Grocery Store Customer Service Desks
Several major grocery chains offer gift card exchange services at their customer service desks. Here are some notable options:
- Kroger: Accepts various retail gift cards through their gift card marketplace
- Whole Foods: Partners with Cardpool for gift card exchanges
- Safeway: Offers gift card exchange services at select locations
- Publix: Some locations participate in gift card exchange programs
Exchange rates typically hover around 70% of the card's value, with store credit options often offering better rates.
10. Local Electronics Stores
Electronics retailers often provide gift card exchange services, particularly for electronics and gaming cards:
- Best Buy: Accepts various gift cards through their trade-in program
- Micro Center: Offers gift card exchanges at select locations
- Fry's Electronics: Some locations participate in gift card buyback programs
- Regional electronics chains: Many local chains partner with gift card exchange services
Exchange rates typically range from 60% to 75%, with higher rates for electronics-related gift cards.
11. Gas Stations
Several major gas station chains now offer gift card exchange services:
- Shell: Select locations partner with gift card exchange services
- Chevron: Some stations offer gift card buyback programs
- 7-Eleven: Many locations have gift card exchange kiosks
- QuikTrip: Select stores offer gift card exchange services
While rates might be lower (50-65%), these locations often provide 24/7 access and immediate cash.
12. Bank Branches
Several major banks have partnered with gift card exchange services:
- Chase: Select branches offer gift card exchange services to account holders
- Wells Fargo: Some locations partner with gift card buyback programs
- US Bank: Offers gift card exchange services at participating branches
- PNC Bank: Select locations provide gift card exchange options
Banks typically provide better rates (75-85%) to their customers, and some offer direct deposit options for the exchanged value.
Tips to Get the Best Value
- Always verify the balance before trying to sell
- Compare rates between different locations
- Consider store credit instead of cash for better rates
- Keep your receipt when purchasing gift cards
- Check if the card is still valid and hasn't expired
Final Words
While selling gift cards locally might not get you 100% of the card's value, it offers the advantage of immediate cash and convenience. For the best results, compare rates between different locations and consider whether immediate cash or a better rate through online services better suits your needs. Don't forget to check out our guide on earning free gift cards to make the most of future opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Gift Cards Locally
What percentage can I expect to get when selling gift cards locally?
When selling gift cards locally, you can typically expect to receive between 50-85% of the card's value. Major retailers like Target and Walmart tend to offer the best rates (70-85%), while pawn shops and gas stations might offer lower rates (50-65%). The exact percentage depends on the retailer, card type, and current demand.
Is it safe to sell gift cards locally?
Yes, selling gift cards locally can be safe if you use legitimate businesses like major retailers, established gift card exchange kiosks, or bank branches. Always get a receipt for the transaction and verify the business's legitimacy. Avoid meeting unknown buyers in unsafe locations when using marketplace platforms.
What documents do I need to sell a gift card locally?
Most legitimate gift card buyers require a valid government-issued ID and the original receipt if available. Some locations might also require proof of card ownership or purchase. Corporate-owned stores like Target and Walmart typically have the strictest verification processes to prevent fraud.
Can I sell partially used gift cards locally?
Yes, most gift card exchange services accept partially used cards, but you'll need to know the exact balance. Many locations can verify the balance on the spot. Keep in mind that some buyers have minimum balance requirements, typically $10 or more, to accept partially used cards.
