Possible eBay Gift Card Errors and How to Fix Them in 2025

One of the frustrating experiences I have encountered is the inability to use a gift card when I needed it the most. It comes with so much anger, sadness, and much more disappointment. I recently had a shopping experience while trying to use my eBay gift card, and that led me to conduct some research. The great news today is that I want to discuss possible eBay gift card errors and how to fix them in 2025.

An eBay gift card is a top gift card because it provides access to a world of shopping experiences. You can buy anything on eBay with your gift card. However, seeing common eBay gift card errors pop up can ruin your shopping experience. Keep reading to be ahead of the possible situations.

Common eBay Gift Card Errors and How to Fix Them

The most common reasons your eBay gift card is not working are;

Code Not Valid or Invalid Gift Card Code

An “Invalid Gift Card Code” error is confusing because you are sure you copied the right code, but why the error? I have been a victim of this and always convert the gift card to cash in such occasions. However, my recent research shows that it’s oftentimes a simple typo. Some numbers and letters look alike, and one can easily mistake them. For example, a zero looks like the letter “O.” Some other times, it could be a fake card or one that had not been activated yet.

Solution: You need to reenter the code and ensure you don’t mistake a letter for a number. Double-check every letter and number. If the error is the same, contact the card vendor to know if the card has been activated. Report a fake card to eBay support to prevent another person from being scammed.

This Code Has Already Been Redeemed

The “this code has already been redeemed” error has to be the most annoying because you have not even touched the card yet. So, the feeling is someone is lying, and it’s either the vendor, eBay gift card customer support, or anyone but me. Sometimes, you can even begin to doubt yourself if you have already redeemed the card unknowingly. While that’s a possibility, it is often the case of buying an already used card.

Solution: Log in to your eBay account and check your gift card balance. This helps to confirm if you have already redeemed the card or not. However, if your balance is empty, get your receipt or proof of purchase and contact eBay support.

NB: You may not recover your funds if you purchase the eBay gift card from a shady third-party seller and you have no receipt. Hence, it is strongly advisable to always use a reliable platform like Ridima to buy your gift cards.

Gift Cards Can’t Be Used for This Purchase

The “gift cards can’t be used for this purchase” error often arises due to eBay rules or some sellers’ choices. You cannot shop for some products like Tesla or housing. Also, if a product on eBay is not in your region, you will receive this error message. So, what’s the solution?

Solution: Always shop for items within your region and always ascertain the available payment options for a product before you add it to your cart.

We Ran Into a Problem. Try Again Later

This error leaves you clueless and out of options for what to do. You could have entered the correct code, ensured your internet connection and browser were fine, and still received this error. Do you want to know why? eBay is having a glitch and needs a break.

Solution: The solution is to simply refresh the page or give it a few hours to try again. You can also try another browser or switch to the eBay app. If the error persists, contact eBay support.

Card Not Accepted in Your Region

eBay gift cards are region-locked. In simpler terms, you cannot use a U.S. eBay gift card on eBay UK. Hence, this problem arises if your account is set to a different region or you are using a VPN.

Solution: Confirm if your gift cards are valid for the eBay site in your region. Turn off any VPNs, and make sure your shipping, billing, and account details match the region the card is from.

Frequently Asked Questions About eBay Gift Card Errors and How to Fix Them.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about eBay gift card errors;

Question 1: Why is my eBay gift card not working?

If your eBay gift card isn’t working, several factors could be causing the issue. It could be a wrong error code, an already used card, or a regional problem.

Question 2: How do I check my eBay gift card balance?

The process is easy. Go to eBay’s official Gift Card Balance Checker and input the 13-digit code from your card. Your balance will be displayed in your eBay wallet under the “My eBay” section.

Question 3: Can I use an eBay gift card more than once?

No, you can only redeem an eBay gift card once. However, you can spend the balance across multiple purchases till you exhaust it. Once you redeem your eBay gift card, all the funds are tied to your account. The only way to use the gift card is at checkout.

Question 4: What does “redemption limit reached” mean?

The “redemption limit reached” error means you have hit the maximum number of gift cards you can add to your account for a particular period. The reason is that eBay has set these limits to help reduce fraud. Generally, you will usually need to wait 24–48 hours before adding more cards.

Question 5: Why is eBay not accepting my gift card?

Call your eBay Customer Support to resolve your issues. However, before you do, include your gift card number, proof of purchase, and a screenshot of the error you are seeing.

Question 6: Why is eBay not allowing me to pay with a gift card?

eBay won’t allow you to pay with a gift card if the item you are trying to buy is not eligible for gift card payments. Region could be another issue, as a U.S. gift card cannot work on eBay UK.

Conclusion

eBay gift card errors can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to shop. But in most cases, the issue has a simple fix. The key is knowing what each error means and how to respond to it. Always buy your cards from trusted platforms like Ridima to avoid fake or previously redeemed cards. Finally, don’t hesitate to contact eBay support with your details and proof of purchase if symptoms continue.