How to Redeem a Amazon Gift Card
A Amazon gift card adds to your Amazon Gift Card Balance, which applies automatically at checkout on eligible orders. Redeeming takes about a minute. Here are the exact steps, what you'll need, the errors that trip people up — and what to do if it's a card you'll never use.
Steps to redeem your Amazon gift card
- Go to amazon.com/redeem (or Account → Gift Cards → Redeem a Gift Card).
- Sign in to the Amazon account you want the balance on.
- Enter the claim code from the back of the card or your email.
- Click Apply to your balance. The amount is added instantly.
- It applies automatically on your next eligible order — no code needed at checkout.
What you'll need
- The claim code (back of the card or in your gift email)
- An Amazon account
- A browser or the Amazon app
Common errors and fixes
- “This code is not valid.” Re-enter carefully — the code is case-insensitive but easy to mistype; watch for a scratched-off character.
- Wrong marketplace. An Amazon.com card redeems on Amazon.com, not Amazon.ca/.co.uk etc.
- Already applied. Each code adds to a balance once; check Your Account → Gift Card Balance.
Got a Amazon card you'll never use?
Amazon balance is non-refundable and only spends at Amazon — it can’t be moved back to cash. If you don't actually use Amazon, don't redeem it first — once the code is on an account the value locks there. Instead you can sell the Amazon card for cash without ever sharing the code, or swap it for a card you'll use. Both keep more value than letting it sit.
Want the fastest route? Compare selling vs swapping or start on the gift card swap.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I redeem a Amazon gift card?
At amazon.com/redeem. Sign in, enter the code, and confirm — the value is added to your Amazon **Gift Card Balance**, which applies automatically at checkout on eligible orders.
Why won't my Amazon code work?
Usually a typo or a hidden scratch-off character, a region/currency mismatch, or a code that's already been redeemed. Re-enter it carefully and check the card's region matches your account.
Can a Amazon gift card be used anywhere else?
No. Amazon balance is non-refundable and only spends at Amazon — it can’t be moved back to cash.
What should I do with a Amazon card I don't want?
Don't redeem it — sell the Amazon card for cash without sharing the code, or swap it for a card you'll use. Once redeemed, the value locks to the account.