About CardCash
CardCash is an online marketplace founded in 2009 that specializes in the buying and selling of gift cards. The platform allows users to purchase discounted gift cards from a broad selection of U.S.-based retailers, restaurants, and service companies. Discounts typically range from 3% to 35% off the card's original value, providing an opportunity for buyers to save money on everyday or specialty purchases.
For sellers, CardCash offers a way to convert unwanted or partially used gift cards into cash. Sellers submit card details online, and after verification, they can receive payment via PayPal, ACH, or check. CardCash functions as an intermediary, verifying card balances to protect buyers, and requiring cards to be valid and usable.
Despite its large selection and buyer protection policies, CardCash's primary market and inventory are focused on the U.S. Gift card values, pricing, and transactions are in U.S. dollars (USD), and most available cards are linked to American retailers. While the website is accessible globally, European users face significant restrictions regarding the utility and acceptance of the gift cards available. Payment options and customer service are also predominantly U.S.-oriented, which can create complications for those outside the country, notably regarding currency conversion, Euro-denominated retailers, and local legal protections.
CardCash remains a go-to solution for U.S.-based customers looking to maximize value or cash out unused cards, but its capabilities and advantages for European users are limited.
Pro's of using CardCash
- Significant discounts on a wide variety of U.S. retailer gift cards
- Easy-to-use online system for both buying and selling gift cards
- Secure transactions with balance verification and buyer protection policies
- Multiple payment options for sellers, including rapid transfers via PayPal
- Convenient for liquidating unwanted gift cards without visiting physical locations
Con's of using CardCash
- Limited support and selection for European customers; most gift cards are for U.S. retailers
- Transactions are in USD, requiring European users to pay currency conversion fees
- Sellers receive less than face value for gift cards, sometimes at steep discounts
- Customer support and refund services may be less responsive for non-U.S. users
- Gift card restrictions may apply, including expiration dates and geographic limitations on use
What are alternatives for CardCash
- Zeek: European-based marketplace offering discounted gift cards from EU retailers, with transactions in Euros.
- Cardyard: UK and EU-focused platform for buying and selling gift cards, with Euro payment and local retailer options.
- GiftCardwiki: Aggregates deals from European gift card sellers, supporting Euro transactions and EU retailers.
- Raise.com: U.S.-centric but has begun to expand internationally; still limited in European offerings.
- Local marketplaces (eBay, Vinted, etc.): Allow person-to-person gift card sales within Europe; buyer protection varies.