Before attempting to use an eBay gift card, several account-level criteria must be met. According to the eBay Gift Card FAQs , users must have an eBay account registered in the United States and provide a U.S. shipping address. While a PayPal account was previously required, it is no longer necessary for redeeming gift cards.

If the gift card balance does not cover the full order total, the remaining cost can be paid using standard methods like a credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal . Key Restrictions and Security

Users must adhere to several policy restrictions to avoid declined transactions. According to the eBay gift card terms :

: Type in the 13-digit redemption code. For physical cards, this is found on the back under a scratch-off security coating.

: Gift cards cannot be used to buy bullion, coins, paper money, virtual currency, coupons, or other gift cards.

: If an item bought with a gift card is returned, the refund is credited back to the gift card balance rather than as cash. Protecting Against Fraud