Apple is renowned worldwide for iconic products including the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, and more. With the company’s vast catalog, gift cards have become a popular payment and gifting option for the Apple ecosystem. However, keeping track of available funds is important.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain why regularly checking Apple gift card balances is recommended. Simple methods will be outlined to easily monitor amounts both online and by phone. Common questions will also be addressed. By the end, cardholders will feel equipped to effectively manage Apple credits.
Let’s start with understanding what an Apple Store gift card represents.
What is an Apple Store Gift Card?
In essence, an Apple Store gift card functions like a prepaid debit card specifically designated for purchases within Apple’s stores and digital storefronts. Here are some key characteristics:
- Cards are issued with set preloaded balances that deplete as spending occurs.
- Funds never truly expire but physical versions themselves may deactivate after 3-5 years of non-use.
- Balances redeem exclusively for eligible Apple items across categories like devices, apps, music, movies and more.
- Cards are available in denominations typically ranging from $15 to $500.
- One centralized balance syncs across all compatible in-store and online platforms.
Now that the fundamentals are covered, let’s explore why actively tracking amounts is advised.
Why Check Your Balance Regularly?
Staying up-to-date with available Apple gift card credits is recommended for a few important reasons:
- Prevents overspending purchases beyond intended value if funds run lower than remembered.
- Allows tracking remaining balances from assorted gifts in one convenient location.
- Flags errors if transactions don’t align with records of redeemed amounts.
- May reveal long forgotten credits still there to be enjoyed.
Proper tracking promotes fully utilizing gift intent rather than missed opportunities. Let’s cover simple checking methods.
Methods For Checking Balances
Verifying an Apple gift card balance is straightforward thanks to convenient online and phone options available 24/7.
Checking Online
Simply visit www.apple.com and follow these quick steps:
- Click your account profile in the top right corner
- Select “Gift Cards” under the “Apple ID” tab
- Current balance clearly displayed
Checking By Phone
To check by phone, call the Apple Support number toll-free:
- Dial 1-800-MY-APPLE (1-800-692-7753)
- Provide the automated system with your card number
- Balance promptly relayed
Both options provide instant fund visibility anytime, anywhere. Now let’s explore common inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can funds be added to existing Apple gift cards?
No, cards cannot be directly reloaded or “recharged.” Only option is purchasing an entirely new gift card with an increased amount.
What purchases are eligible for redemption?
Cards can be applied to most Apple products, software, apps, movies, music, books and subscriptions. Exclusions include taxes, shipping and paid support plans.
How long do gift cards remain valid?
Funds never truly expire. However, physical cards themselves may deactivate after 36 months of non-use to mitigate fraud. Make sure to check and redeem periodically.
Proper monitoring prevents missed opportunities. Now let’s explore options if converting balances to cash is preferable over spending them.
Converting Balances To Cash
If Apple credits can no longer be fully redeemed, services exist to sell unwanted balances at discounted cash rates. Platforms like Prestmit directly purchase from individuals:
- Sign up and select “Sell Gift Card”
- Choose Apple, enter the amount, and upload front/back photos
- Provide the number for verification
- Receive immediate payment upon approval via supported bank transfers.
This ensures an easy solution to retrieve value from unused vouchers. Choosing trusted intermediaries maximizes returns.
To summarize the main points covered:
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide has explained why actively tracking Apple gift card balances is recommended. Simple online and phone-checking methods were outlined. Common inquiries were addressed and converting excess amounts to cash through reliable marketplaces was also overviewed.
Armed with this knowledge, gift card recipients or purchasers should now feel equipped to stay on top of Apple credits through continued checks. Properly managing gift value promotes fully extracting intended benefits over both the short and long term.