No. Card connection is not required. You have several options for how to use your gift.
Your redemption options
- Activate to a Visa, Mastercard, or Amex — Link a card you already have. When you pay at the merchant with your linked card, GiftYa automatically credits the gift amount back to that card, up to the value of the gift.
- Use as an eGift — Exchange your GiftYa for a digital gift card code from the merchant.
- Swap for a different merchant — Exchange your GiftYa for a gift from a different brand (fee applies).
- Mail a plastic Visa Gift Card — Request a physical Visa gift card mailed to you.
- Send to your bank account with Zelle® — Transfer the gift value directly to your bank account.
Available options vary by merchant.
For more detail on each option, visit the Redemption Options help center.
Why we recommend the Activate method
Card linking is the recommended option for most recipients. Here's why:
- Nothing to show or enter at the register — just pay with your linked card as usual.
- You can't lose the gift — there's no code to misplace or expire.
- Your gift card information isn't exposed — since there's no code, there's nothing for scammers to steal.
- Simple to use — GiftYa credits your card automatically after each qualifying purchase at the merchant, until the full gift value is used.
Having trouble accessing your GiftYa?
Log in at giftya.com using the mobile phone number the gift was originally sent to. Once logged in, your GiftYa should appear in your account. If you're still having trouble, contact our support team via live chat at giftya.com or email support@giftya.com.
Video walkthrough
Prefer to follow along visually?
Watch the step-by-step video guide at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxF_IpFpjOY