How to Buy Crypto with Apple Gift Card: 2023 Step-by-Step Guide

Why Use Apple Gift Cards for Crypto Purchases?

Apple Gift Cards aren’t just for apps and subscriptions—they’ve become an unconventional gateway into cryptocurrency. With over $25 billion in unredeemed gift cards circulating in the US alone, many holders explore converting this ‘stuck’ value into digital assets. While no major exchange directly accepts Apple Gift Cards, clever workarounds let you transform plastic into Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other cryptocurrencies. This guide reveals three proven methods, key platforms, and critical safety tips for your crypto journey.

Method 1: Convert to Cash via Gift Card Exchanges

Most secure approach for beginners:

1. Sell your Apple Gift Card on reputable platforms like CardCash or Raise. Expect 70-85% of face value after fees.
2. Transfer proceeds to PayPal or your bank account (1-3 business days).
3. Buy crypto on exchanges like Coinbase or Binance using deposited cash.

Tip: Avoid sites offering 90%+ value—common scam tactic.

Method 2: Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Trading on Crypto Platforms

For direct crypto-for-gift-card swaps:

1. Create accounts on P2P marketplaces: Paxful or LocalBitcoins.
2. Filter sellers accepting Apple Gift Cards (verify trader ratings).
3. Initiate trade, send gift card PIN via secure escrow.
4. Seller releases crypto to your wallet upon verification.

Top P2P Platforms:

• Paxful: 350+ payment methods, strong escrow protection
• LocalBitcoins: Focuses on Bitcoin trades, global reach
• Binance P2P: Lower fees, integrated exchange access

Method 3: Convert to Other Cryptocurrency First

Multi-step strategy:

1. Use Apple Gift Card to purchase Bitcoin on Bitrefill (for retail/gift cards).
2. Transfer Bitcoin to exchange like Kraken.
3. Trade Bitcoin for ETH, SOL, or other altcoins.

Note: Involves 2-3 transaction fees but offers asset flexibility.

Critical Safety Precautions

Gift card crypto trades attract scammers. Protect yourself:

• ✅ Always use platform escrow—never send codes directly
• ✅ Verify seller ratings (100+ completed trades minimum)
• ✅ Film yourself scratching off PIN as fraud evidence
• ❌ Never share card photos before escrow activation
• ❌ Avoid Telegram/WhatsApp “deals”—99% are scams

Red flag: Sellers requesting extra payments for “verification.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy crypto directly from Apple?

No. Apple doesn’t facilitate cryptocurrency purchases. Their cards work only on App Store, iTunes, and Apple services.

What crypto can I buy with Apple Gift Cards?

Bitcoin (BTC) is most accessible via P2P. Ethereum (ETH) and stablecoins like USDT follow. Altcoins require secondary exchanges.

Are there transaction limits?

P2P platforms impose $50-$1,000 daily limits for new users. Gift card exchanges cap at $2,000 per transaction. Higher tiers require ID verification.

How much are the fees?

Expect 15-30% total cost between gift card discounting and crypto fees. Breakdown:
– Gift card sale: 10-20% loss
– P2P platform fee: 0.5-1%
– Blockchain network fee: $1-$15

Is this method anonymous?

Partially. Gift card trades avoid bank links, but exchanges require KYC for cashouts >$500. Use decentralized wallets for added privacy.

Smart Alternatives to Consider

If methods seem complex:

• Prepaid Visa cards: Buy crypto directly on Coinbase
• Retail arbitrage: Use Apple Card for high-demand items, resell, then buy crypto
• Gift card swapping: Trade for Amazon cards on CardCash, then buy crypto vouchers

Final tip: Start with small amounts ($20-$50) to test platforms before larger transactions. While unconventional, Apple Gift Cards can fuel your crypto portfolio with proper strategy and vigilance.