Giftcardmall Prepaid Review
Learn about Giftcardmall.com's custom prepaid cards, Happy Cards, and activation fees. Discover the safe method to check your card balance.
What is Giftcardmall?
**Giftcardmall.com** (managed by Blackhawk Network) is one of the largest online marketplaces for gift and prepaid cards in the United States. They sell standard store gift cards (like Amazon, Starbucks, and Home Depot), special multi-brand cards (like "Happy Cards"), and personalized Visa or Mastercard prepaid cards where you can print custom photos and names on the card front.
The personalized Visa prepaid cards are issued by Pathward, N.A., member FDIC. They are non-reloadable and act as regular debit cards for online and physical retail purchases.
Pros & Cons of Giftcardmall
Pros
- High level of customization: upload your own photo and custom text.
- Offers both physical cards (shipped) and e-gift cards (instant email delivery).
- Large library of brand partnerships under one website.
- Funds do not expire.
Cons
- Personalized cards require shipping fees and wait times.
- One-time activation fees apply to all prepaid Visa/Mastercard purchases.
- Cannot reload with extra funds once depleted.
- No ATM access or PIN cash back.
Activation and Shipping Fees
Like other prepaid cards, Giftcardmall Visa cards charge a one-time purchase activation fee. If buying online, shipping fees also apply:
| Prepaid Card Value | Activation Fee | Standard US Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| $25.00 Visa Card | $3.95 USD | $1.99 USD (Physical only) |
| $50.00 Visa Card | $4.95 USD | $1.99 USD (Physical only) |
| $100.00 Visa Card | $5.95 USD | $1.99 USD (Physical only) |
| Variable ($20-$500) | $5.95 USD | $1.99 USD (Physical only) |
| E-Gift Cards (All values) | Standard Activation Fee | FREE (Delivered to Email) |
How to Check Giftcardmall Balance Safely
Before making a purchase, query your exact card balance to avoid declines. Since copycat phishing sites target Giftcardmall users, follow these steps to check your balance safely:
Verify the Balance Checker Website
Turn the card over. The verified balance check URL is mygift.giftcardmall.com. Type this exact URL directly into your browser. Never click on sponsored links or ad banner results in search engines.
Input Credentials
Type your 16-digit card number, the card expiration date, and the 3-digit CVV/security code on the back. Submit to view the card balance and check transaction history details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Giftcardmall "Happy Cards"?
Happy Cards are curated multi-brand gift cards that can be used at a select group of retailers listed on the front of the card (e.g., a "Happy Dining" card might work at Sephora, Buffalo Wild Wings, and AMC). They do not charge activation fees, making them highly popular gift options.
How do I activate a Giftcardmall card bought online?
Physical cards purchased online are shipped inactive for security. You must visit the activation link included in your packing slip (usually giftcardmall.com/activate) and enter the activation code before you can spend the card.
Can I use my Giftcardmall card at gas pump terminals?
Prepaid cards can be used at gas stations, but you should always pay inside at the cashier. Gas pumps run automatic pre-authorization holds (often $75 to $100) which will decline if your card balance is lower, even if you only need $10 of gas.