How to Check the Balance on Your Store Gift Cards.

Official ‘Check Balance’ pages for the Top 50 store cards in the US. Plus, see my list of do’s and don’ts before checking your balance.

1. Flip the Card and Read the Fine Print

I always start by turning the plastic (or e-gift email) over. On the back I find the one or two official ways the store lets me see the
remaining balance: a web address, a toll-free number, or a note telling me a
cashier can scan the card.

If none of that is printed, I treat the card as suspicious until I can confirm it with the retailer.

2. Use the Exact Website Printed on the Card

Phishing sites love to mimic big brands, so I type the URL exactly as it appears on the card, no Googling, no clicking ads. Once the padlock and
https:// show up, I enter:

• the full gift-card number, and
• the PIN or security code (usually under a scratch-off strip).

After I hit Submit, most stores show the balance instantly,
sometimes with a mini statement of my recent swipes.

3. Call the Toll-Free Number When I’m Offline

When I have spotty Wi-Fi, I dial the 1-800 or 1-888 number printed on the
card. The automated menu asks for the same two numbers, then reads the balance
out loud. I jot it down or keep the call on speaker so I don’t forget.

4. Ask at the Register

If I’m already in the store, I hand the card to the cashier and request a
“balance inquiry.” They scan or swipe it, and the register prints the amount
on a small receipt. Some self-checkout kiosks have a Check Balance
option too.

5. Quick Tips

• Screenshot every balance page for proof if something goes wrong.
• Never pay a “verification fee” just to see a balance—legit stores don’t
  charge for that.
• If a site asks for my Social Security number or a selfie, I back out
  immediately.

My Favorite Gift Cards (and Why)

Amazon

I love Amazon cards because I can apply the code directly to my account and the funds never expire. The balance combines with my existing gift-card credit and auto-applies at checkout—no mental math required.

Steam

Steam Wallet codes are perfect for gaming. Once I redeem the card, Steam tracks every penny and even shows regional pricing. I also avoid bank-card touches on impulse sales, which helps my budget.

Target

Target’s gift cards work both online and in-store, and the app stores multiple cards under one barcode. I can see each balance in the Wallet tab, combine small leftovers, and spend them during clearance runs.

Where to Check your Gift Card Balance (Official Online Login Pages).

Reminder: If the web page you land on ever asks for more than the card number, PIN and (maybe) ZIP code, then stop and verify that you are still on the correct domain and that you are using a secure connection.