Home Ā» Cashless Payments Knowledge Hub Ā» What is an eGift Card? How They Work, Pros, and Cons in 2025
Ever forgotten a loved one’s special day and needed a last-minute yet thoughtful gift? eGift cards are the perfect solution, delivering instant, personalized gifting in just seconds! Be it for birthdays, holidays, or corporate rewards, eGift cards have revolutionized the way we give and receive presents.
As digital payments continue to dominate, these virtual cards are becoming a go-to choice for both consumers and businesses. In recent years, eGift cards have surged in popularity, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.3% from 2025-2029.Ā
But how exactly do they work, and are they the right choice for you? Letās dive deeper into the eGift cards, exploring their benefits, risks, and what makes them a game-changer in 2025.
An eGift card, also known as a digital gift card, is an electronic version of a traditional gift card. Instead of a physical card, recipients receive a digital code, often delivered via email or text message, which can be redeemed online or in-store at the issuing retailer.
When purchasing an eGift card, select the desired amount and provide the recipient’s contact information. The recipient then receives a unique code, which they can use to purchase up to the card’s value. Some eGift cards can be added to digital wallets, enhancing convenience and security.
Also, read eGift Card ā Now Send Gift Vouchers with the Payit App.
eGift cards can be of two types – a flexible spending option with a prepaid balance and a retailer-specific voucher. Letās understand both in detail.
Prepaid eGift cards function like digital debit cards, allowing recipients to use the loaded balance across multiple stores or service providers. These cards are typically issued by financial institutions, major retailers, or payment networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
eGift vouchers, also known as retailer-specific digital gift cards, are tied to a particular brand or business. They are often used as store credits and must be redeemed within the issuing retailerās ecosystem.Ā
The digital gift card market is projected to grow $583.34 billion by the end of 2025; however, if you donāt pick the right eGift card, it can cost you a lot of money. Letās understand the advantages and disadvantages of eGift cards.
eGift cards are a fast and convenient way to gift someone, but to ensure a smooth experience, follow these best practices:
Buy eGift cards from official brand websites or reputable marketplaces like Amazon, Apple, or Ding. Avoid third-party sellers offering deep discounts, as they may sell fraudulent or expired cards.
Double-check the recipientās email address or phone number before sending it to prevent sending it to the wrong person. If possible, confirm they received it after sending it.
Many platforms allow you to add a custom message or occasion-specific designs to make the eGift more meaningful. Some retailers let recipients choose how they want to use the balance (e.g., multiple brands or product categories).
Some eGift cards come with expiration dates, while others remain valid indefinitely. Read the terms and conditions to ensure the recipient can redeem it easily.
Never share gift card details with unknown partiesāscammers often request payments via gift cards. If buying for business use, ensure security protocols to prevent employee fraud or misuse.
Some services allow you to schedule eGift card deliveries for birthdays, holidays, or special events. Sending them immediately ensures they donāt get lost in a cluttered inbox.
Save the confirmation email or receipt in case there are issues with delivery or redemption. Contact the retailer’s customer support with the details if a problem arises.
eGift cards offer convenience and flexibility, catering to the modern consumer’s needs. However, being aware of potential risks and choosing reputable providers is essential to ensure a positive gifting experience.
Payit offers eGift services, allowing you to send prepaid cards and vouchers from top brands. With options for personalization and a wide range of accepted retailers, we enhance the gifting experience, ensuring your friends and families can choose what they desire.
1. Tap on āSend eGift Cardā.
2. On the next screen, enter the recipient’s name in the first box.
3. Write your name in the second box.
4. Enter the recipient’s email address in the third box.
5. Choose your gift amount or enter it manually.
6. Select the occasion for which you would like to send a gift.
7. Compose your message for the recipient, then click on ‘Next’.
8. Verify all the details, then tap ‘Send Gift Card’ to continue.
9. Learn how to redeem this eGift Card. Click on āProceed with Gift Envelopeā to continue.
10. Read the Terms and Conditions carefully. Click on āAgree and Continueā to proceed.
11. Enter your Payit PIN to verify your identity.
Here you go! Your personalized eGift has been sent successfully!
Watch the full video of how to send Payit eGift here.
Can e-gift cards be converted to cash?
Yes, the Payit eGift card sends cash to the recipientās wallet, and hence, they can withdraw the money through the app.Ā
How long does an eGift card last?
Expiry dates vary; some eGift cards last indefinitely, while others expire within 6 to 24 months.
How safe are Egift cards?
eGift cards are secure if bought from reputable sources, provided you set secured access to redeem the benefit.
How to redeem an eGift card?
Mostly, eGift cards are sent through emails. Hence, the recipient needs to follow the steps mentioned in the email. Hereās a video link on how to redeem a Payit eGift card.