To use a Google Play gift card, redeem the code in the Google Play app on your Android device or on a computer at the Google Play redemption page. The redeemed amount is then added to your Google Play balance, which you can use to buy apps, games, movies, books, and other digital content.
How to use a Google Play gift card on Android
Follow these steps to redeem your gift card in the Google Play app:
- Open the Google Play app.
- At the top right, tap your Profile picture.
- Tap Payments & subscriptions > Redeem code.
- Enter the code.
- Tap Redeem.
- Review the account that will receive the balance.
- Tap Confirm.
You can also redeem a gift card during checkout. When making a purchase, tap the payment-method drop-down arrow and choose Redeem code. Alternatively, tap the three horizontal lines in the upper left corner to open the menu, then select 'Redeem'.
How to redeem a Google Play gift card on a computer
To redeem your gift card from a web browser:
- Go to play.google.com/redeem.
- Enter your code.
- Click Redeem.
- Click Confirm.
How to check your Google Play gift card balance
Once redeemed, the gift card value becomes your Google Play balance. To check it on Android:
- Open the Google Play app.
- At the top right, tap the profile icon.
- Tap Payments & subscriptions > Payment methods > Google Play balance.
Your Google Play balance is displayed here and can be used for purchases across the store. If your gift card balance is zero or close to zero, it may not be displayed in the Payment methods section.
Google Play gift card restrictions and limits
Google Play gift cards have several important restrictions:
- Geo-restriction: Gift cards can only be redeemed in the country where they were purchased.
- Currency matching: The gift card currency must match the currency of your Play Store account.
- Device limitation: Google Play gift cards can only be used on Android devices or in the Google Play Store.
- Spending limit: You can set a spending limit on your Google Play account via Menu > Account > Purchase history > Set up budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I scan the card instead of typing the code?
Yes. On Android, you can tap Payments & subscriptions > Redeem gift code and then tap Scan gift card to use your device's camera.
What if redemption fails?
Verify the card is a Google Play gift card, make sure the code is typed correctly, confirm the currency matches your Play Store currency, and confirm the card was redeemed in the country of purchase.
Can I use a Google Play gift card on iPhone?
Google Play gift cards are designed for use on Android devices or in the Google Play Store.
What proof does support need if the code is unreadable?
Provide a picture of the back of the card showing the serial number and the receipt.
Can I use the balance for in-app purchases?
Yes. Your Google Play balance can be used for in-app purchases, including subscriptions like Amazon Kindle unlimited, as long as the purchase is made through the Google Play billing system.
Can I combine multiple gift cards?
You can redeem multiple gift cards, and the balances will be added to your Google Play account. However, you cannot apply multiple gift cards to a single purchase at checkout.
What happens if my balance runs out during a purchase?
If your Google Play balance does not cover the full purchase amount, you can pay the remaining cost using another accepted payment method linked to your account.
