A gift card (also called a gift voucher, gift certificate, or e-gift card) is a stored-value payment instrument. The purchaser pays the merchant or issuer a face-value amount; the recipient receives a card or code carrying that value, and can spend it like cash at the issuing brand.
| Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Closed-loop | Spendable only at the issuing brand | Amazon, Starbucks, Apple, Sephora |
| Open-loop | Branded with a payment network; spendable anywhere that network is accepted | Visa Gift, Mastercard Gift, Amex Gift |
| Physical | Plastic card delivered by post or in-store | Most retail gift cards |
| Digital / e-gift | Code delivered by email — no shipping | Amazon eGift, Apple Gift Card |
| Restaurant / experience | Redeemable at restaurants, spas, theme parks | Starbucks, OpenTable, Klook |
A coupon REDUCES the price of a purchase. A gift card IS the payment. They serve different functions and can be used together:
Gift card marketplaces (CouponHuntz, Raise, Gift Card Granny, GoBank) sell gift cards below face value — typically 3-15% off depending on brand. The discount comes from corporate gifting volume, expired card resale, and brand-funded promotional channels.
This creates a stackable savings model: buy a $100 Amazon gift card for $92, then use a coupon code at Amazon checkout for another 10% off your cart. Effective discount: 17-19%.
A prepaid payment instrument issued by a merchant. Recipient redeems the stored value toward purchases.
A coupon reduces price. A gift card IS the payment.
Yes at most retailers — apply coupon first, then pay the reduced total with the gift card.
Varies by jurisdiction: US 5-year minimum, EU 2 years, India 1-3 years.
Yes — many cashback platforms and credit cards earn rewards on gift card purchases.