How to Register a Gift Card for Online Use

Major credit card companies and well-known retailers provide gift cards for customer purchase.

Most gift cards require activation prior to making internet-based purchases. As many web-based companies allow users to submit a credit or debit card for payment, the Visa or MasterCard-backed gift card acts as a valuable way to browse and shop online.

Things You'll Need

• Gift Card Number
• Personal Phone Number

Instructions

1. Save the receipt from the point of purchase. Receipts given to customers when buying a gift card in a retail store often contain information including the card activation number or gift card customer service line. Before using the gift card to shop online, the information on the receipt must entered or repeated when calling the toll-free activation line or using the card company's activation web page. In addition, write down the information on a sheet of paper to safeguard against loss of the receipt.

2. Contact the toll-free number on the reverse of the card. Call the customer service or activation line displayed on the reverse of the gift card. Both retail and credit card company gift cards often allow activation via use of a line with a 1-800, 1-877, or 1-888 prefix. When connected, follow the prompts and submit the card or card activation number. Many activation lines provide opportunity for account set-up and password generation for future online use.

3. Register the card at the gift card company's website. In many cases, you must submit the card number, partial home phone number and generate a password before using the card to make purchases online. When activated, gift card companies allow card users to view available card balance and add funds to the card as needed.

References

• Visa: Visa Gift Card How It Works
• Gift Cards: All Frequently Asked Questions