By Alex Carter, Apple & Crypto Analyst at AppleBTCs

Can I Convert My Apple Gift Card to Money?

Can I convert my Apple gift card to money? The direct answer is yes — though Apple itself won’t exchange gift cards for cash, several legitimate third-party platforms allow you to sell or trade your balance for real money, cryptocurrency, or store credit elsewhere. As of February 2026, options range from peer-to-peer marketplaces to crypto swap services.

If you’d rather spend your Apple balance on hardware directly, AppleBTCs.com lets you buy Apple products with Bitcoin and 50+ other cryptocurrencies — no account needed, free worldwide shipping — which effectively lets you redirect crypto funds toward Apple gear without touching gift card conversions at all.

In short: You can convert an Apple gift card to money using gift card resale platforms like Raise, CardCash, or Gameflip, where you typically receive 70–85% of face value in cash. Alternatively, peer-to-peer marketplaces and crypto swap services let you exchange Apple balances for Bitcoin or other digital currencies, often at better effective rates.

Does Apple Allow You to Convert Gift Cards to Cash Directly?

Apple’s Official Gift Card Policy

Apple’s terms of service are unambiguous: Apple Gift Cards cannot be redeemed for cash, and Apple does not offer any official buyback or conversion program. Once loaded onto an Apple ID or held as a physical card, the balance is intended exclusively for purchases within Apple’s ecosystem — the App Store, iTunes, Apple TV+, iCloud storage, and hardware at Apple.com or Apple Retail stores.

There is one narrow legal exception: California state law requires merchants to cash out gift card balances below $10. If your Apple Gift Card balance drops under $10, you can request the remaining cash value at an Apple Store in California. Other states with similar laws include Colorado, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington — though thresholds vary.

What Apple Gift Cards Can Be Used For

Apple Gift Cards (the unified card introduced in 2021) cover the full Apple ecosystem. You can use them for:

• iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and AirPods purchases at Apple
• Apple One, Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade subscriptions
• iCloud+ storage upgrades
• App Store purchases, in-app purchases, and games
• AppleCare+ plans and accessories

Why Apple Won’t Cash Out Gift Cards

Apple restricts cash conversion primarily to prevent fraud. Gift card scams — where criminals pressure victims into buying Apple Gift Cards as payment — are among the most common consumer fraud types reported to the FTC. Cash conversion would make these scams easier to monetize and harder to reverse.

Put simply: Apple does not allow direct conversion of gift cards to cash as a company policy. The only legal exception is in states like California, where gift card balances under $10 can be cashed out by law. For larger balances, third-party resale platforms are the only practical route to converting Apple gift card value into money.

What Are the Best Platforms to Sell Apple Gift Cards for Cash?

Gift Card Resale Marketplaces

The most reliable way to convert an Apple gift card to money is through established gift card resale platforms. These services buy your card at a discount and resell it to other buyers. Payout rates fluctuate based on demand for Apple cards specifically — and Apple gift cards consistently rank among the highest-demand cards on these platforms.

Peer-to-Peer Selling on Reddit and Facebook Marketplace

Communities like Reddit’s r/giftcardexchange allow direct peer-to-peer trades at closer to face value — often 88–95% — since there’s no middleman platform taking a cut. However, this method requires trust verification, reputation checks, and careful use of middlemen or escrow services to avoid scams.

Facebook Marketplace also sees active Apple gift card trading. Local in-person trades (meeting at an Apple Store to verify the balance in real time) minimize fraud risk significantly compared to remote digital trades.

How to Maximize Your Payout Rate

• Compare rates across at least three platforms before committing — rates shift daily
• Sell during Q4 (holiday season) when Apple card demand peaks
• Sell the full card value at once — partial balances attract lower rates
• Use PayPal for fastest payout; ACH/check adds 2–5 business days
• Never respond to unsolicited offers to buy your card — scam risk is high

In summary: The best platforms to sell Apple gift cards for cash are Raise, CardCash, and Gameflip, offering 70–85% of face value paid via PayPal or bank transfer within 1–5 business days. For higher payouts (up to 95%), peer-to-peer platforms like Reddit’s r/giftcardexchange work well but require more caution and verification effort.

Can I Convert My Apple Gift Card to Bitcoin or Crypto?

Apple Gift Cards and Cryptocurrency Exchanges

Converting an Apple gift card directly to Bitcoin isn’t supported by major exchanges like Coinbase or Kraken — they don’t accept gift cards as payment. However, the conversion is achievable in two steps: sell the gift card for PayPal cash on a resale platform, then use that cash to buy Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency on any exchange that accepts PayPal or bank transfer.

For a deeper dive into the gift card and Bitcoin intersection, Is There Such a Thing as a Bitcoin Gift Card? explores how digital gift cards and crypto interact in 2026.

P2P Crypto Platforms That Accept Gift Cards

Some peer-to-peer cryptocurrency marketplaces do allow direct gift card-to-crypto swaps. Platforms like Paxful and LocalBitcoins (where still active) historically listed Apple gift card trades, where buyers would pay in Bitcoin for the gift card balance. This method typically yields 40–65% of face value in BTC — lower than cash resale platforms but faster if you specifically want crypto.

Our research team notes that scam rates on P2P gift card-to-crypto trades are significantly higher than on established resale platforms. Always use platforms with verified escrow and confirmed buyer reputation scores above 95%.

Using Apple Balance Indirectly to Acquire Crypto

A legitimate indirect route: use your Apple Gift Card balance to purchase crypto-adjacent apps, subscriptions, or tools within the Apple ecosystem. For context on how Apple Pay and crypto intersect, Can I Use Apple Pay to Purchase Bitcoin? 2026 covers the available options in detail. You can also explore Apple Gift Card Bitcoin Balance: 2026 Guide for a full breakdown of this specific use case.

The key takeaway is: Converting an Apple gift card directly to Bitcoin requires either a two-step process (sell for PayPal cash, then buy BTC) or using P2P platforms that accept gift cards for crypto — though the latter typically yields only 40–65% of face value and carries higher scam risk. The two-step method is slower but safer and more efficient.

How Do You Safely Convert an Apple Gift Card to Money Step-by-Step?

Step-by-Step: Selling via a Resale Platform

1. Check your Apple Gift Card balance at Apple’s official gift card page or in Settings on your iPhone.
2. Visit at least three resale platforms (Raise, CardCash, Gameflip) and compare current payout rates for Apple cards.
3. Create a free seller account on your chosen platform — most require just an email address.
4. Enter your card details: denomination, card number, and PIN (for digital cards).
5. Accept the offered rate and submit your card for processing.
6. The platform verifies the balance — this typically takes 15 minutes to 24 hours.
7. Receive payment via PayPal, Venmo, or bank transfer within 1–5 business days.

Red Flags and Scams to Avoid

The Apple gift card resale space attracts scammers. Never share your card PIN via text or email with an unverified buyer. Avoid anyone who contacts you unsolicited offering to buy your card — legitimate buyers don’t cold-contact sellers. Only use established platforms with published reviews and clear dispute resolution processes.

A common scam involves a “buyer” claiming the card balance is zero after you’ve shared the PIN, then disputing the transaction. Using platforms with balance verification before PIN transfer eliminates this risk entirely.

Tax Implications of Selling Gift Cards for Cash

In most cases, selling a gift card at below face value for cash does not generate taxable income in the US — you’re recovering less than you (or the gift giver) paid. However, if you consistently buy discounted cards and resell at a profit, the IRS may treat this as taxable business income. Consult a tax professional if you’re doing high-volume gift card arbitrage.

Here’s the bottom line: The safest way to convert an Apple gift card to money is through an established resale platform with balance verification, dispute resolution, and PayPal payout. The process takes 1–5 business days and typically returns 70–85 cents per dollar of face value. Avoid unsolicited buyers, never share PINs early, and stick to verified platforms.

What Can You Buy with Apple Gift Cards Instead of Converting?

Apple Hardware Purchases with Gift Card Balance

Before converting at a loss, consider whether your Apple gift card balance could cover — or offset — a hardware purchase you were already planning. Apple Gift Cards are accepted at apple.com and all Apple Retail stores for any hardware purchase, including iPhone 17 Pro, MacBook Pro M4, iPad Pro M4, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3.

For example, a $100 Apple Gift Card applied toward an iPhone 17 Pro purchase returns full face value — compared to the $75–$85 you’d net selling it. If you’re planning any Apple hardware purchase, spending the card is significantly more efficient than converting it. See Pay with Bitcoins at Apple: 2026 Complete Guide for how crypto payments work alongside gift cards at Apple.

Buying Apple Products with Crypto Instead

If your goal is simply to get Apple hardware without spending fiat cash, bypassing gift cards entirely and paying directly with Bitcoin is often cleaner. AppleBTCs.com accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 50+ other cryptocurrencies for the full range of Apple products — iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and accessories — with free worldwide shipping and 30-day returns, no account required. Certified refurbished options are also available, offering additional savings.

Gifting or Transferring Your Apple Balance

Apple Gift Card balances can be gifted to another Apple ID holder. If converting to cash at a discount doesn’t appeal, transferring the balance to a friend or family member who actively uses Apple products at full face value is a zero-loss alternative. For crypto payment options beyond Apple’s official channels, Best Crypto Payment Solutions That Support Apple Pay covers the broader ecosystem.

In summary: Before converting an Apple gift card to money at a 15–30% discount, consider whether spending it on planned Apple hardware — at full face value — makes more financial sense. If you need Apple products and hold crypto, buying directly with Bitcoin through a crypto-accepting retailer is often the most value-efficient path, bypassing gift card conversion entirely.

Are There Any Legitimate Apps That Convert Apple Gift Cards to Cash?

Mobile Apps for Gift Card Exchange

Several legitimate mobile apps streamline the gift card-to-cash conversion process. CardCash, Raise, and Gameflip all have iOS apps that let you photograph or enter card details directly from your iPhone. The experience is comparable to their web platforms, with the same payout rates and processing times.

Gyft — available on the App Store — offers a slightly different model: convert gift cards into a Gyft wallet balance usable at hundreds of retailers, which provides more flexibility than cash but better rates than most direct cash conversion services.

What About Gift Card Exchange Kiosks?

Coinstar Exchange kiosks — found in many US grocery stores — accept gift cards for immediate cash payment. Payout rates for Apple cards at Coinstar typically run 60–72% of face value, lower than online platforms, but the trade-off is instant cash without waiting for bank transfers or PayPal processing.

For those who need cash immediately and have no time for platform verification, Coinstar Exchange offers the fastest zero-wait conversion, albeit at a steeper discount. Best for smaller balances where the convenience outweighs the rate difference.

Can You Use Apple Gift Cards for MacBook or iPhone Purchases?

Yes — and this is often overlooked. If you’re considering a MacBook Pro or iPhone purchase, your gift card balance applies in full toward the purchase price at Apple. Can I Pay in Payment for a MacBook Pro? 2026 and Is It Possible to Buy an Unlocked iPhone? 2026 Guide detail the exact purchase process, including how to combine gift card balances with other payment methods.

Put simply: Legitimate apps like CardCash, Raise, and Gameflip convert Apple gift cards to cash via PayPal or bank transfer at 70–85% of face value. For instant cash at 60–72%, Coinstar Exchange kiosks in grocery stores provide a walk-in option. No app converts gift cards at full face value — spending the card on Apple products always returns more per dollar.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I Convert My Apple Gift Card to Money?

Can I convert my Apple gift card to money through Apple directly?

No — Apple does not offer any official gift card cash conversion program. The only exception is in states like California, where gift card balances under $10 can be legally cashed out on request. For balances above $10, you must use third-party resale platforms, peer-to-peer marketplaces, or Coinstar Exchange kiosks to convert Apple gift card value into money.

How much money will I get for my Apple gift card?

On established resale platforms like Raise or CardCash, you typically receive 70–85% of your Apple gift card’s face value. Peer-to-peer platforms can yield up to 90–95% but require more trust verification. Coinstar Exchange kiosks offer 60–72% for instant in-person cash. Apple gift cards consistently attract higher resale rates than most other brand gift cards due to strong consumer demand.

Is it legal to sell an Apple gift card for cash?

Yes — selling an Apple gift card for cash is entirely legal in the United States. While Apple’s terms restrict cash redemption directly through Apple, private resale through third-party platforms is not prohibited by law. Standard consumer protection laws apply. Always use reputable platforms with escrow or buyer verification to avoid fraud and ensure safe transactions.

Can I convert my Apple gift card to Bitcoin?

You can convert an Apple gift card to Bitcoin indirectly: sell the card on a resale platform for PayPal cash, then use those funds to buy BTC on an exchange like Coinbase. Some P2P crypto platforms also allow direct gift card-to-Bitcoin swaps, but typically at 40–65% of face value — significantly lower than cash conversion rates through dedicated resale platforms.

How long does it take to convert an Apple gift card to money?

Conversion timelines vary by method: Coinstar Exchange kiosks offer instant cash; online platforms like Raise and CardCash typically pay within 1–5 business days after balance verification. PayPal is the fastest payout method; ACH bank transfers and checks add 2–5 additional days. Peer-to-peer sales via Reddit or Facebook can close within hours but require more trust verification work upfront.

What is the best site to sell Apple gift cards for cash in 2026?

Raise consistently offers the highest payout rates for Apple gift cards in 2026 — typically 80–85% of face value — with PayPal payment within 1–3 business days. CardCash is a strong alternative at 70–82%, with a faster verification process. For peer-to-peer trades at closer to face value, Reddit’s r/giftcardexchange community remains a reliable option for experienced sellers.

Can I buy an iPhone with an Apple gift card and Bitcoin combined?

You can use an Apple Gift Card balance at Apple.com toward an iPhone purchase, and separately pay the remainder with another payment method — but Apple does not accept Bitcoin directly. For a fully crypto-funded iPhone purchase, Buy iPhone SE 5G Unlocked with Bitcoin: 2026 Guide and MacBook Pro Crypto Payment Review: 2026 Complete Guide detail exactly how to complete the purchase through crypto-accepting retailers.

Does Apple Pay support gift card or crypto payments?

Apple Pay supports credit cards, debit cards, and Apple Cash — but not Apple Gift Cards or cryptocurrency directly. Apple Cash (separate from gift cards) can be funded and spent via Apple Pay. For a full breakdown of what Apple Pay does and doesn’t support in the crypto space, Does Apple Pay Support Crypto Payments? 2026 Guide covers all current options.

The Bottom Line: Can I Convert My Apple Gift Card to Money?

Can I convert my Apple gift card to money? Yes — just not through Apple itself. Resale platforms like Raise and CardCash return 70–85 cents per dollar quickly and safely. For instant cash at a steeper discount, Coinstar Exchange works in minutes. For crypto holders, the two-step conversion (sell for PayPal, buy BTC) is the most reliable path.

But before converting at a loss, run the numbers: if you’re planning any Apple hardware purchase, spending the card at full face value always beats a 15–30% haircut on resale. And if you want Apple products funded entirely by crypto, AppleBTCs.com lets you buy iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and more with Bitcoin and 50+ cryptocurrencies — no account, free worldwide shipping, 30-day returns — making gift card conversion entirely optional.

Sources: Apple Gift Cards official page; FTC Consumer Advice on gift card scams (2025); Raise, CardCash, and Gameflip published payout rate data (February 2026).