Fast, simple, and secure transactions are essential today, making gift cards an appealing alternative to regular money transfer methods. Thinking about how to send money with gift cards? Gift Cards are a popular approach for those seeking an easy, safe, and affordable way to send help to family living abroad or friends nearby.
Why Gift Cards Are a Quick and Secure Solution for Sending Money
Gift cards offer a fast, low-cost, and secure way to send money, making them ideal for domestic or international transfers without the complexities of banks.
Whether transferring funds across the country or sending money internationally, gift cards have become a popular method thanks to their immediate delivery, minimal fees, and high level of security. Here’s why gift cards are transforming how people send money.
1. Speed of Transfer
Digital gift cards enable instant delivery, offering a faster alternative to traditional methods like bank transfers, which often involve delays and processing times.
Unlike wire transfers—especially international ones —which can take several days to process, gift cards can be sent and received in minutes. This is particularly beneficial in emergencies or when sending money as a gift. Most digital gift cards are delivered via email or SMS, eliminating postal delays and bank queues.
2. No Hidden Fees
Unlike many money transfer services, which add hidden fees and currency conversion costs, gift cards offer price transparency with few or no service charges.
Many money transfer platforms charge sender and receiver fees, foreign exchange fees, or transaction percentages. In contrast, most gift cards, especially retailer-specific and digital versions, come without added costs. This ensures the recipient gets the full value intended without surprise deductions.
3. Security and Privacy
Gift cards are safer than traditional money transfers because they don’t require sharing sensitive financial information or linking bank accounts.
Security is paramount when transferring money. Gift cards minimize exposure by avoiding the need to share personal banking details. Some prepaid digital cards include PINs, especially Visa or MasterCard types. In contrast, retailer-specific e-gift cards typically use codes for redemption and are distributed via encrypted channels, making fraud and unauthorized access less likely.
4. No Bank Account Required
With gift cards, neither the sender nor the recipient needs a bank account, making it accessible for unbanked individuals or those who prefer alternative financial solutions.
This is a game-changer for sending money to children, students, elderly family members, or people living in regions with limited access to banking. Gift cards provide freedom and financial support without the red tape.
Read related blogs: Send Money Abroad with Gift Cards and Avoid All Fees
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Send Money with Gift Cards
Follow these easy steps to send money with gift cards, from selecting the right card to ensuring your recipient receives and uses it securely.
Sending money with gift cards is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it effectively.
1. Choose the Right Type of Gift Card
Selecting the right gift card depends on the recipient’s needs, whether they require flexibility, retailer-specific value, or fast digital delivery.
- Prepaid Visa/MasterCard Gift Card
These versatile and widely accepted cards work like debit cards and can be used globally anywhere Visa or MasterCard is accepted, online or in person. This makes them perfect for recipients who need spending flexibility.
- Retailer-Specific Gift Cards
These cards are ideal for recipients who frequently shop at certain stores. For example, an Amazon gift card is great for online shoppers, while a Walmart card benefits someone who buys groceries or household items in-store.
- Digital Gift Cards
Digital cards are the fastest and most convenient option. They can be sent via email or SMS and used instantly. Popular entertainment, apps, and shopping choices include iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon.
2. Purchase the Gift Card
Buy your gift card from a reliable source, choose the correct value, and check for hidden fees before finalizing your purchase.
- Buy from Reputable Sources
Always purchase from official websites like Amazon.com or Visa.com or established retailers like Walmart. Avoid third-party sellers or auction sites to protect yourself from scams and invalid cards.
- Select the Card Value
Choose a value that matches the amount you wish to send. If needed, buy multiple cards to reach the total desired amount. Many cards have limits, so this step is essential for larger transfers.
- Check for Fees
Some prepaid cards may include an activation fee. Read the fine print and opt for cards without maintenance or transaction charges, especially if you want the full value to go to the recipient.
3. Send the Gift Card
A gift card can be sent digitally or physically, each with its steps to ensure safe and timely delivery.
- For Digital Gift Cards
Enter the recipient’s email address or mobile number, and the card will be delivered almost instantly. Ensure all contact details are correct and inform the recipient to check their inbox or spam folder.
- For Physical Gift Cards
Securely place the card in an envelope and use a reliable courier or postal service like UPS or FedEx. Always opt for tracking and delivery confirmation. Double-check the recipient’s address before shipping.
4. Recipient Redeems the Gift Card
Redeeming gift cards is easy. You enter a code online or swipe your card physically in-store, depending on the card type.
For digital gift cards, recipients will receive a code they can enter during checkout on relevant platforms. Physical prepaid Visa or MasterCard cards can be used at stores or online. Some even allow ATM withdrawals. Just make sure to activate the card if required.
Read related blogs: Easiest Way to Send Money for Free: Gift Cards 101
Why Gift Cards Are a Secure and Convenient Option
Gift cards offer enhanced security, ease of use, and global acceptance, making them a go-to solution for both senders and recipients.
1. Security and Fraud Protection
Because gift cards don’t require banking details, they offer increased protection from identity theft and unauthorized access.
Digital gift cards are transmitted over encrypted systems and may include security features like passwords or PINs. Prepaid cards also minimize exposure to fraud compared to sharing routing numbers or account information.
2. Flexibility for the Recipient
Depending on the gift card type, recipients can shop, pay bills, or even withdraw cash.
A prepaid Visa card can be used anywhere globally. Retailer-specific cards let users buy what they need—groceries, electronics, or entertainment. This flexibility enhances the overall user experience.
3. No Complicated Registration or Accounts
Sending money via gift cards eliminates the need to create accounts or fill out forms, making it fast and hassle-free.
You don’t need to sign up for financial services, undergo identity verification, or wait for account approvals. Buy the card, send it, and let the recipient enjoy instant access.
Best Practices for Sending Money with Gift Cards
Follow these best practices to maximize gift card transfers and ensure a smooth, secure, and successful transaction.
1. Double-Check Recipient Information
Ensure email addresses and mailing information are accurate to avoid failed delivery or sending money to the wrong recipient.
Verify that the recipient can use the gift card in their country or preferred store. Also, confirm they have access to the email or phone number you’re sending to.
2. Use Trusted Platforms
Always use verified retailers and secure digital platforms to reduce the risk of scams or lost funds.
Avoid buying from classified ads, marketplaces, or unknown sellers. Use encrypted channels to send digital cards and share codes directly with the recipient.
3. Be Cautious of Scams
Gift cards are a standard tool in fraud schemes, so be alert and avoid sending them in response to unsolicited requests.
Never share card numbers or PINs with strangers. Scammers often impersonate friends, family, or government agencies to trick you into sending gift cards.
Conclusion
Gift cards offer a fast, secure, and cost-effective way to send money globally without the hassle of traditional banking methods or transfer services. Beem offers a modern way to send money instantly—even without a bank account. With features like Send Now and Pay Later™, Beem makes transfers as easy and flexible as using gift cards, helping users support others quickly and securely.
With no hidden fees, instant delivery, and high flexibility, gift cards are a modern solution for money transfers. Whether helping a family member, paying for a service, or sending a gift, this method offers both convenience and security. Try sending money with gift cards for your next transfer—and experience a smoother, faster, and more efficient way to help others.
FAQs: How to Send Money with Gift Cards
Can I send large sums of money using gift cards?
Yes, but due to the value limits on individual cards, you may need to buy multiple cards to reach the desired amount.
Are there any risks involved in sending gift cards?
Yes—mainly fraud. Use secure platforms and don’t share card details except with the intended recipient.
How fast can the recipient use the funds from a gift card?
Instantly, in most cases, especially with digital gift cards. Physical cards may require activation before use.
Can gift cards be used internationally?
Prepaid Visa or MasterCard cards can be used globally. Retailer cards depend on the store’s international policy.
What should I do if the recipient didn’t receive the gift card?
Contact the issuer’s customer service with your order number. Most platforms can resend or cancel a lost card if it’s unused.
