Can you use Apple Gift Card for Apple Pay?

Can Apple Gift Cards be Used with Apple Pay?

Apple Gift Cards offer a convenient way to purchase digital content and apps, but can they be directly added to Apple Pay? The short answer is no, not in most cases. While some Apple Gift Cards, specifically those tied to Visa or Mastercard, can be used to add funds to a linked credit or debit card in Apple Pay, most cannot.

Instead of directly loading an Apple Gift Card into Apple Pay, the card’s value needs to be redeemed on your Apple ID. This unlocks the funds for use in the App Store, iTunes Store, and Apple Music. Essentially, the gift card balance is applied to your account balance, not your Apple Pay digital wallet.

This method offers a crucial advantage: it allows you to apply the gift card balance to any of your purchases within the Apple ecosystem. You aren’t limited to just those items that can be bought through Apple Pay. You can use the redeemed funds for downloads, subscriptions, or in-app purchases across the Apple ecosystem.

So, while you won’t find a straightforward “add gift card” option within Apple Pay for non-Visa/Mastercard gift cards, the indirect method of redeeming the gift card to your Apple ID remains a highly effective way to utilize its value.