Visa gift cards are a popular and versatile present, but many people face a common dilemma—how to convert the balance into usable cash. Whether you’ve received a gift card with a large balance or just have small amounts remaining, turning that card into cash can be a practical way to make full use of the funds. 

Fortunately, there are several ways to cash out a Visa gift card, with varying degrees of simplicity and efficiency. In this article, we’ll break down some easy steps and tips to help you get the most out of your card.

Understanding the Basics: Why Cashing Out a Visa Gift Card Matters

A Visa gift card functions similarly to a prepaid debit card. While they’re a convenient gift or reward option, the limitations come when you need actual cash instead of store credit. Whether it’s for everyday expenses, paying bills, or converting small balances, cashing out your Visa gift card can make it more flexible. 

Unlike traditional credit cards, however, gift cards are prepaid and don’t come with a direct withdrawal feature. This means that you’ll need alternative methods to access that balance in cash form.

Easy Steps to Cash Out a Visa Gift Card

Here’s how to cash out a Visa gift card in a few straightforward ways:

1. Use a Gift Card Exchange Website (소액결제 정보저장소)

Several online platforms allow you to exchange gift cards for cash. These websites purchase your card for a percentage of its value—usually around 90-95%. While you won’t receive the full card balance, this is one of the quickest ways to get cash for a Visa gift card.

• Steps:
  1. Visit a reputable gift card exchange site.
  2. Enter your card details.
  3. Get an offer and decide whether to accept it.
  4. Receive cash through PayPal or direct bank transfer.

Keep in mind, fees may apply, so the exact amount you’ll receive can vary.

2. Add the Gift Card to PayPal or Venmo

One of the simplest ways to access cash from a Visa gift card is to add it to a PayPal or Venmo account and transfer the funds to your bank. Both platforms allow you to link the gift card as if it were a regular debit card.

• Steps:

1. Log into your PayPal or Venmo account.
2. Add the Visa gift card as a funding source.
3. Transfer the balance to your bank account or send it to a friend, who can then send you cash.

This method is efficient and typically involves fewer fees than other cash conversion options.

3. Sell the Gift Card to a Friend

Another straightforward option is to sell the gift card directly to someone you know. If you have a friend or family member who is planning to shop at stores that accept Visa, you can offer to sell the card at face value or a small discount.

• Steps:

1. Offer the card to someone who will use it.
2. Agree on a price.
3. Receive cash or another form of payment.

This method is ideal if you need to avoid transaction fees and want cash immediately.

4. Use the Gift Card at an ATM

Some Visa gift cards are eligible for ATM withdrawals, though this varies by issuer. Check the terms and conditions on your specific card to see if this option is available.

• Steps:

1. Confirm with the card issuer if ATM withdrawals are permitted.
2. Use the card at an ATM.
3. Withdraw cash as you would with a debit card (note that fees may apply).

Though not all cards will allow ATM access, it’s a straightforward method if available.

5. Shop and Return Strategy

This option involves using the gift card to purchase an item and then returning it for cash. It’s not guaranteed to work at all retailers, as some only issue store credit for returns.

• Steps:

1. Purchase an item using the Visa gift card.
2. Return the item to the retailer, preferably one with a flexible return policy.
3. Request a cash refund.

Use caution with this method, as store policies vary, and it might not always result in cash.

Final Thoughts 

Cashing out a Visa gift card isn’t difficult if you know the right methods. From using gift card exchange websites to leveraging platforms like PayPal, there are numerous ways to access the card’s balance. With careful planning and attention to fees, you can maximize your card’s value and avoid wasting any unused funds.