Converting Your Walmart Gift Card to PayPal: A Comprehensive Guide

Turning a Walmart gift card into PayPal funds isn’t as straightforward as transferring money between two bank accounts, but it’s definitely possible with a few clever workarounds. The most common method involves linking the gift card as a debit or credit card to your PayPal account and then using it for online purchases or transferring funds through other means. While direct gift card-to-PayPal transfers aren’t supported, this guide will walk you through the available options and answer your frequently asked questions.

Linking Your Walmart Gift Card to PayPal

The initial step involves treating your Walmart gift card like any other debit or credit card you’d associate with your PayPal account. Here’s how to do it:

1. Log in to your PayPal account: Start by visiting the PayPal website and logging in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.
2. Navigate to the “Wallet” Tab: Once logged in, look for the “Wallet” tab at the top of the page and click on it. This section manages your payment methods.
3. Link a New Card: In your Wallet, find and click on the option to “+ Link a Card”.
4. Choose Card Type: Select the option “Link a Debit or Credit Card.”
5. Enter Gift Card Details: Carefully enter the 16-digit card number, the expiration date, and the CVV code (usually found on the back of the card). Make sure the information is accurate to avoid any linking issues.
6. Link the Card: Click the “Link Card” button. PayPal may make a small test charge to verify the card, which will be refunded.

Once the card is linked, it will appear in your wallet. You can now use it as a payment method for online purchases through PayPal.

Using the Gift Card Through PayPal

After successfully linking the Walmart gift card, you have a few options to leverage its value through your PayPal account:

• Online Purchases: The most direct approach is to use the gift card for online transactions where PayPal is accepted. When paying, select the Walmart gift card as your preferred payment method. This is the easiest way to convert your gift card value into something tangible, like goods or services you need.
• Sending Money via Friends & Family (with caution): While technically you could send money to a trusted friend or family member using your linked Walmart gift card, it’s important to know that PayPal charges a fee for Friends & Family transactions funded by a debit or credit card. This will eat into the gift card‘s value. Have your friend send the money back to you.
• Transferring to Another Service (Indirectly): Some services allow you to add funds using a debit card. You could potentially use your linked Walmart gift card to add funds to such a service (like Venmo, for example, if they allow it) and then transfer those funds to your bank account. However, this method can be complicated and might involve fees from the intermediary service.

Alternatives to PayPal

If linking and using your Walmart gift card with PayPal proves difficult or doesn’t fully meet your needs, consider these alternatives:

• Sell the Gift Card: Several websites, like Raise or CardCash, specialize in buying and selling gift cards. You can enter the details of your Walmart gift card on these platforms to get an offer. They typically pay less than the face value of the card, but it’s a quick way to get cash.
• Trade for Another Gift Card: Some platforms allow you to trade your Walmart gift card for a Visa gift card or another gift card you prefer. This can be useful if you’re looking for a card that’s more widely accepted online.
• Use at Walmart: Don’t forget the simplest option: use the gift card at Walmart itself! You can purchase groceries, household items, electronics, and more. This is the guaranteed way to use the full value of the card without any fees or discounts.
• Buy a Visa Gift Card (Check Store Policy): Some Walmart stores allow you to purchase a Visa gift card using a Walmart gift card. Call your local store to verify if this option is available, as store policies vary.

Important Considerations

• Check the Gift Card Balance: Before attempting any of these methods, verify the remaining balance on your Walmart gift card. You can usually do this online or by calling the number on the back of the card.
• Fees: Be aware of potential fees associated with PayPal transactions or third-party services. These fees can significantly reduce the amount you ultimately receive.
• Terms and Conditions: Always read the terms and conditions of both Walmart gift cards and PayPal to understand any restrictions or limitations.
• Security: When using third-party websites or apps, ensure they are reputable and secure to protect your financial information.

FAQs: Converting Walmart Gift Cards

1. Can I directly transfer funds from a Walmart gift card to my PayPal balance?

No, PayPal does not directly support transferring funds from a gift card to your PayPal balance. You can, however, link the gift card as a debit or credit card and use it to make purchases or send money (with associated fees).

2. Is there a fee for linking a Walmart gift card to PayPal?

Linking a card to PayPal is usually free. PayPal might make a small, temporary charge to verify the card, but this amount is typically refunded.

3. Can I withdraw cash from an ATM using my linked Walmart gift card through PayPal?

No, linking your Walmart gift card to your PayPal account will not allow you to withdraw cash from an ATM. Walmart gift cards themselves cannot be used at ATMs.

4. What happens if my PayPal purchase exceeds the balance on my Walmart gift card?

If your PayPal purchase exceeds the gift card balance, PayPal will prompt you to select another funding source to cover the remaining amount.

5. Can I use a Walmart gift card to pay for PayPal fees?

Yes, if your Walmart gift card is linked to your PayPal account, it can be used to pay for PayPal fees incurred during transactions.

6. What are the alternatives if linking my Walmart gift card to PayPal doesn’t work?

You can sell the gift card on sites like Raise or CardCash, trade it for another gift card, or simply use it for purchases at Walmart.

7. Can I use a Walmart gift card at Sam’s Club gas stations?

Yes, Walmart gift cards can typically be used at Sam’s Club gas stations.

8. What should I do if I lose my Walmart gift card that’s linked to my PayPal account?

Report the lost gift card to Walmart immediately. While you can remove the linked card from your PayPal account, recovering the remaining balance on the gift card depends on Walmart‘s policy.

9. Can I transfer money from my Walmart MoneyCard to PayPal?

Yes, the Walmart MoneyCard, which functions more like a debit card, can be used to send money via PayPal. You can link it to your PayPal account like any other debit card.

10. Are there any apps that allow direct transfer from Walmart gift card to PayPal?

As of now, there are no officially recognized apps that allow a direct transfer. The best workaround remains linking the gift card to PayPal as a debit card.

11. What’s the difference between a Walmart gift card and a Walmart Visa gift card?

A Walmart gift card can only be used at Walmart and its affiliated stores. A Walmart Visa gift card can be used anywhere that accepts Visa debit cards. However, a Walmart Visa gift card is purchased with cash or a debit card (not a regular Walmart gift card).

12. Can I use a Walmart gift card to purchase another gift card online at Walmart.com?

This depends on Walmart’s policy. Some restrictions may apply, so check the Walmart.com website or contact customer service for clarification.

13. If I sell my Walmart gift card on a third-party site, how long does it take to get paid?

Payment timelines vary depending on the platform. Some sites offer instant payments, while others may take a few days to process the transaction.

14. Can I donate my Walmart gift card balance to a charity through PayPal?

You can link your Walmart gift card to PayPal and use it as a payment method to donate to a charity that accepts PayPal.

15. How can I ensure the security of my PayPal account when linking a Walmart gift card?

Use a strong, unique password for your PayPal account. Enable two-factor authentication for added security. Regularly review your PayPal transaction history for any unauthorized activity. Understanding and navigating digital landscapes is key to future literacy, a value we at the GamesLearningSociety.org deeply embrace.

Converting a Walmart gift card to PayPal requires a bit of creativity and an understanding of available options. While direct transfers aren’t possible, linking the card and exploring alternative methods can help you leverage its value effectively. Always be mindful of fees and security to maximize the benefits of your gift card. This can provide insights into future literacies. You can find out more by visiting the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.