Gift cards have become a popular choice for consumers looking for flexibility in their purchases, and they make excellent presents for special occasions. However, the cost of buying gift cards can add up. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to obtain free gift cards without spending a dime. Here’s a comprehensive guide on ten effective strategies to help you score free gift cards.
1. Participate in Online Surveys
Many companies are willing to reward users with gift cards in exchange for their opinions. Websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Pinecone Research offer opportunities to earn points or cash for completing surveys. These points can be redeemed for a variety of gift cards, including Amazon, Walmart, and more.
How It Works:
- Sign Up: Create an account on survey sites.
- Complete Surveys: Answer questions about products, services, or general consumer behavior.
- Earn Points: Points are accumulated based on the length and complexity of the surveys.
- Redeem: Exchange points for gift cards once you reach the minimum threshold.
Tips:
- Choose survey sites with high payout rates.
- Regularly check for available surveys to maximize your earnings.
2. Use Cashback and Rewards Apps
Cashback apps and rewards programs often offer gift cards as a reward for making purchases through their platforms. Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Shopkick give users the chance to earn cashback or rewards that can be converted into gift cards.
How It Works:
- Download the App: Install the cashback or rewards app on your smartphone.
- Make Purchases: Shop through the app or upload receipts from eligible purchases.
- Earn Rewards: Accumulate cashback or points based on your spending.
- Redeem for Gift Cards: Once you’ve earned enough, you can redeem your rewards for gift cards.
Tips:
- Look for apps with bonus offers or higher cashback percentages.
- Check for partnering stores and brands to maximize your rewards.
3. Join Loyalty Programs
Many retailers and restaurants have loyalty programs that reward frequent customers with points, which can be redeemed for gift cards. Programs like Starbucks Rewards, Sephora Beauty Insider, and CVS ExtraCare offer gift cards as a reward option.
How It Works:
- Sign Up: Join the loyalty program through the retailer’s website or app.
- Earn Points: Accumulate points by making purchases or engaging with the brand.
- Redeem: Use points to claim gift cards or other rewards offered by the program.
Tips:
- Take advantage of promotional periods or double points events.
- Regularly check your points balance and reward options.
4. Participate in Referral Programs
Some companies offer gift cards as incentives for referring new customers or users. Referral programs are common among financial apps, online services, and even physical retail stores.
How It Works:
- Join a Referral Program: Sign up for programs offered by companies you use or are interested in.
- Refer Friends: Share your unique referral link or code with friends and family.
- Earn Rewards: Receive gift cards when your referrals sign up or make a purchase.
Tips:
- Share your referral link on social media or with your network to reach more people.
- Be sure to follow the referral program’s terms and conditions.
5. Enter Contests and Giveaways
Contests and giveaways hosted by brands, bloggers, or social media influencers often feature gift cards as prizes. These promotions can be found on social media platforms, blogs, or company websites.
How It Works:
- Find Contests: Look for giveaways on social media, blogs, or brand websites.
- Enter: Follow the entry instructions, which may involve liking a post, sharing, or commenting.
- Win: If selected, you’ll receive a gift card as a prize.
Tips:
- Follow brands and influencers known for hosting frequent giveaways.
- Enter multiple contests to increase your chances of winning.
6. Earn Gift Cards Through Credit Card Rewards
Many credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or cashback, which can be redeemed for gift cards. Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred and American Express Membership Rewards provide flexible redemption options.
How It Works:
- Use Your Card: Make purchases using your rewards credit card.
- Accumulate Points: Earn points or cashback based on your spending.
- Redeem for Gift Cards: Exchange your points or cashback for gift cards through the credit card’s rewards portal.
Tips:
- Pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
- Choose cards with generous rewards and flexible redemption options.
7. Check for Promotional Offers
Occasionally, companies and retailers offer promotional deals that include free gift cards. These promotions can be found in emails, advertisements, or special events.
How It Works:
- Monitor Promotions: Sign up for newsletters and alerts from your favorite retailers.
- Take Advantage: Follow the instructions to qualify for the gift card offer, such as making a purchase or signing up for a service.
- Receive Gift Card: Once the promotion is complete, you’ll receive your free gift card.
Tips:
- Keep an eye on seasonal sales or limited-time offers.
- Act quickly, as promotional offers often have expiration dates.
8. Trade or Sell Unwanted Items
Websites and apps like Decluttr, Gazelle, and even local Facebook Marketplace groups allow you to trade or sell unwanted items. Some of these platforms offer gift cards as payment or reward.
How It Works:
- List Items: Post items you no longer need for sale or trade.
- Receive Payment: Get paid in gift cards instead of cash, if that’s an option.
- Use Gift Cards: Redeem your gift cards at various retailers or online stores.
Tips:
- Ensure your items are in good condition to maximize their value.
- Compare offers from different platforms to get the best deal.
9. Use Online Shopping Portals
Online shopping portals like MyPoints and InboxDollars offer gift cards as rewards for shopping through their links. These portals partner with various retailers to provide cashback or points.
How It Works:
- Visit the Portal: Access the shopping portal and find retailers you want to shop from.
- Shop Through the Portal: Click on the retailer’s link provided by the portal.
- Earn Rewards: Accumulate points or cashback based on your purchase.
- Redeem: Exchange your rewards for gift cards.
Tips:
- Compare rewards rates between different shopping portals.
- Use cashback portals for all your online shopping to maximize earnings.
10. Get Gift Cards as Part of a Subscription Service
Some subscription services offer gift cards as part of their membership benefits. For example, some magazine subscriptions or digital content services include gift cards as a bonus for signing up.
How It Works:
- Subscribe: Sign up for a subscription service that offers gift cards as part of their offer.
- Receive Gift Card: After completing the subscription or renewal, you’ll receive your gift card.
- Use Gift Card: Redeem the gift card at your preferred retailer.
Tips:
- Look for subscription deals that offer the best value.
- Ensure the subscription service aligns with your interests or needs.
Conclusion
Getting free gift cards is a matter of leveraging various opportunities and participating in programs that align with your habits and interests. Whether you’re completing surveys, using cashback apps, or entering contests, there are numerous avenues to explore. By staying proactive and engaging with different platforms, you can enjoy the benefits of gift cards without spending any money. So why not start today and see how many free gift cards you can collect?
