12 Things to Try If Your Visa Gift Card Isn't Working

Few things are more frustrating than trying to make a purchase with a Visa gift card—only to have it declined. Whether you're shopping online or in-store, there are several reasons a Visa gift card might not work. Fortunately, most of these issues are easy to fix. Below, we've outlined the 12 most common reasons your Visa gift card isn't working, and what to do before calling customer service.

1. Check If the Card Is Activated

Some Visa gift cards require manual activation, especially if purchased online. Until the card is activated, the associated bank account won't process transactions. Look for instructions on the back of the card or any insert in the packaging. If you're unsure, visit the issuer's website or call the number on the back of the card.

2. Confirm the Card Is Being Run Correctly

Visa gift cards can be used as credit or debit. If run as debit, a PIN is required. If you don't have a PIN, ask the cashier to process it as credit. (Note: Most Visa gift cards cannot be used at ATMs or for cash withdrawals.)

3. Make Sure Your Purchase Isn't Over the Balance

Visa gift cards cannot be overdrawn. If the purchase exceeds the available balance, the transaction will be declined. Solution: ask the cashier to split the payment—use the exact gift card balance first, then pay the rest with another method.

4. Watch Out for Restaurant or Salon Gratuity Holds

Restaurants, salons, and spas often pre-authorize 20% more than your bill to account for gratuity. If your gift card doesn't have enough to cover the bill + tip, it may be declined. Ask the merchant to charge the exact bill amount only, and pay the tip separately.

5. Avoid Gas Pump Holds

Gas stations typically pre-authorize $75+ when you pay at the pump. If your card has less than that, it may be declined. To avoid this, go inside and ask the clerk to charge a specific amount instead.

6. Beware of Hotel Holds

Hotels may place a hold for the room plus 30% for incidentals. This can lock up the funds on your gift card. Instead, use a credit card for check-in, and ask to pay the final bill with your gift card at checkout.

7. Car Rentals May Require Credit Cards

Most car rental companies don't accept Visa gift cards for reservations. Use a credit card to reserve, and pay the final total with your gift card at the return counter if allowed.

8. Having Trouble Online? Check the Billing Info

If the billing address entered at checkout doesn't match what's on file with the gift card issuer, the transaction might fail. Fix this by registering your card online or calling the issuing bank to attach your name and billing address.

9. The Merchant Might Be Treating It as Cash

Visa gift cards can't be used for cash equivalents, like PayPal transactions or money transfers. Some online merchants mistakenly categorize gift card payments this way, triggering an automatic decline. If your address is correct and funds are available, contact the issuer to check.

10. You're Trying to Use It Internationally

Visa gift cards issued in the United States can only be used in the U.S. That includes websites based outside the U.S. or foreign currency purchases. Always check if the site is domestic before using your card.

11. There May Be a Waiting Period

Some gift cards purchased in stores have a 24–48 hour waiting period before activation is complete. This is often a fraud prevention measure. Look at the receipt or the card terms to check for any grace period.

12. Try the Card Somewhere Else Anyway

Sometimes, gift cards still work even when balance check tools or activations don't. If nothing else has worked, try using the card online or in-store. The transaction may go through even if previous systems failed.

What to Do If It Still Doesn't Work

If you've gone through all 12 checks and your Visa gift card is still not working, your best move is to:

1. Call the customer service number on the back of the card.
2. Visit the issuer's website to check the balance or report the issue.
3. Double-check the terms and conditions, especially around prohibited uses.