How to Use an iTunes Music Card

The popularity of iTunes and its influence on the way the general public buys music is undeniable, so it's no surprise that iTunes cards are such a popular gift idea. They give the recipient the opportunity to choose her own music, video, podcast, movie or audiobook from the massive iTunes library, all from the comfort of her own home. Using a gift card to make such purchases can easily be accomplished by following a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Download and install iTunes from the iTunes Web page (see Resources). There is no cost for the download and it's a simple procedure that can be accomplished by clicking on the "Download" button and following the on-screen prompts. Whether your computer is a Mac or a PC, the requirements for each system, such as processor speed and hard drive space required, are clearly displayed on the site.

2. Open iTunes on your computer once it's installed. On the left side of the iTunes display, there's an "iTunes Store" icon and link. Click on this to open the iTunes store display. On the right side of the page there will be a "Quick Links" list of options. Click on the "Redeem" link.

3. Scratch off the silver-colored bar on the reverse side of your iTunes card. This will reveal a 16-digit code that you need to enter into the box displayed on the Redeem page. When you've accurately entered the number, click the "Redeem" button.

4. Create an iTunes account. After clicking the Redeem button, the screen setup will ask you to log in to your account or create a new one. Creating one is as simple as clicking on the "Create Account" button. Your email address will be your account name and you'll have to choose a password to allow you to log in for future purchases. With your account functional, clicking the next Redeem button will trigger an on-screen message telling you that your card has been successfully redeemed.

5. Check the upper-right corner of the iTunes page right below the iTunes "Search Store" button. There will be a small box with the card dollar amount listed. You are now free to browse the iTunes store and click the "Buy" button on any product you wish to purchase and download. Every time you buy, the cost of the item will be deducted from your account balance and displayed in the box.

Tips & Warnings

• If you already have iTunes installed on your computer, it's a good idea to check for any available updates to ensure optimum performance.
• If you attempt to buy a product and your remaining balance isn't enough to cover it, you will be prompted to enter a credit card number. If you'd rather not give out the information, you can purchase a gift card yourself and redeem it to increase your available balance.
• Do not attempt to redeem any gift card purchased on foreign soil. Cards are only valid in the country of purchase.

References

• How to use your iTunes gift card

Resources

• Download iTunes
• iTunes Forum
• Video: How to Redeem an iTunes Gift Card