How to Redeem a Xbox Gift Card
A Xbox gift card adds to your Microsoft account, spendable on Xbox games, Game Pass, apps and Microsoft Store items. 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 Xbox gift card
- Go to redeem.microsoft.com, or on a console press the Xbox button → Store → Redeem.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account.
- Enter the 25-character code from the card or email.
- Confirm — the value is added to your Microsoft account balance.
What you'll need
- The 25-character code
- A Microsoft account
- An Xbox console or a browser
Common errors and fixes
- “That code isn’t working.” Enter all 25 characters; O/0 and I/1 mix-ups are the usual culprit.
- Region lock. A card bought in one country may not redeem on an account set to another.
- Already redeemed. The balance is on the account that used it first.
Got a Xbox card you'll never use?
Microsoft/Xbox balance stays on that account and only spends in the Microsoft/Xbox stores. If you don't actually use Xbox, don't redeem it first — once the code is on an account the value locks there. Instead you can sell the Xbox 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 Xbox gift card?
At redeem.microsoft.com. Sign in, enter the code, and confirm — the value is added to your **Microsoft account**, spendable on Xbox games, Game Pass, apps and Microsoft Store items.
Why won't my Xbox 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 Xbox gift card be used anywhere else?
No. Microsoft/Xbox balance stays on that account and only spends in the Microsoft/Xbox stores.
What should I do with a Xbox card I don't want?
Don't redeem it — sell the Xbox card for cash without sharing the code, or swap it for a card you'll use. Once redeemed, the value locks to the account.