You can transfer a Mastercard gift card balance to a bank account, but the method depends on whether the card is reloadable

A Mastercard gift card is not a bank account — it is a prepaid card that holds a fixed amount of money. To move that money into a real bank account, you have a few routes, and which one works depends on the card itself. Some Mastercard gift cards let you transfer the balance directly. Others require you to spend the money or use a cash withdrawal at an ATM. A few cards do not allow transfers at all.

The fastest way is usually to check whether your specific card supports balance transfers through its website or app. If it does, you can move the full amount to a linked bank account in minutes. If it does not, you will need to either withdraw cash at an ATM (which may charge a fee) or spend the balance down and deposit the proceeds.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Mastercard gift cards allow direct balance transfers to a bank account through their website or mobile app, while others do not.
  • If your card does not support transfers, you can withdraw cash at an ATM, though most cards charge a fee per withdrawal.
  • You can also spend the balance on purchases and deposit any refunds or cash back to your bank account, though this takes longer.
  • Check your card's terms or contact the issuer's customer service number on the back of the card to learn what options are available for your specific card.

How to check if your card allows direct transfers

The first step is to find out what type of Mastercard gift card you have. Look at the back of the card for a customer service phone number or visit the card issuer's website. Common issuers include Blackhawk Network, Incomm, and Sutton Bank, though there are others.

Once you know the issuer, go to their website and log in with your card number and PIN (usually the last four digits of the card or a number you set). Look for options labeled "transfer funds," "move money," or "send to bank account." Not all cards have this feature — it depends on the card type and the issuer's policies. If you do not see the option online, call the customer service number on the back of the card and ask directly whether balance transfers are available.

Transferring the balance if your card supports it

If your card does allow transfers, the process is usually straightforward. Log into your card's online account or app, find the transfer or send money option, and enter your bank account details — your routing number and account number. You can find these on a check, in your bank's app, or by calling your bank.

The transfer typically takes one to three business days to reach your account. Some cards let you transfer the full balance at once, while others have daily or monthly limits. Check the terms before you start, so you know whether you can move all the money in one go or need to make multiple transfers.

Withdrawing cash at an ATM

If your card does not support transfers, you can withdraw cash at any ATM that displays the Mastercard logo. Insert the card, enter your PIN, and select the withdrawal amount. The cash comes out when ready.

However, most Mastercard gift cards charge a fee for ATM withdrawals — typically between $2 and $3 per transaction. Some cards allow one free withdrawal, while others charge for every one. Check your card's terms to understand the fee structure. Once you have the cash, you can deposit it into your bank account at a branch, ATM, or through mobile deposit if your bank offers it.

Using the card to make purchases and deposits

Another option is to spend the balance on purchases and then deposit any refunds or cash back to your bank account. For example, you could buy a gift card to a store you shop at regularly, then return it for cash. You could also make a purchase online and request a refund to your bank account instead of back to the gift card.

This method works but is slower and less direct than a transfer or ATM withdrawal. It also requires you to find a way to spend the money or get it refunded, which may not always be possible. It is usually a last resort if the other options are not available.

What to do if your card does not support any of these options

Some older or limited-use Mastercard gift cards do not allow transfers, ATM withdrawals, or straightforward refunds. In these cases, your main option is to spend the balance on purchases you would make anyway. You can use the card anywhere Mastercard is accepted — online, in stores, or over the phone.

If you have a small balance left that you cannot spend, contact the card issuer's customer service and ask whether they can close the card and send you a check for the remaining balance. Some issuers will do this, though it may take several weeks. Others will not, in which case the money stays on the card until you use it or the card expires.

Fees and limits to know about

Different Mastercard gift cards have different fee structures. Balance transfers may be free or may charge a small percentage of the amount transferred. ATM withdrawals usually cost $2 to $3 per transaction. Some cards charge monthly maintenance fees if the balance is not used within a certain time period.

Many cards also have daily withdrawal limits — for example, you might only be able to withdraw $500 per day at an ATM. If you need to move a large balance, you may need to make multiple withdrawals or transfers over several days. Read your card's terms and conditions, which are usually available on the issuer's website or in the welcome materials that came with the card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer a Mastercard gift card balance to someone else's bank account?

No. Balance transfers, when available, can only go to a bank account in your own name. You cannot send the money to another person's account directly from the gift card. If you want to give the money to someone else, you would need to transfer it to your own account first, then send it from there.

How long does a balance transfer take?

Most balance transfers take one to three business days. Some cards process transfers the same day if you initiate the transfer before a certain time in the afternoon. Check your card's website or contact customer service to learn the exact timing for your card.

What if I lose my PIN or forget it?

Call the customer service number on the back of your card. The issuer can reset your PIN or help you access your account without it. You will need to verify your identity with information like your name, the card number, and possibly the amount of the balance.

Can I use a Mastercard gift card to open a bank account?

No. Banks require a real bank account or a government-issued ID and proof of address to open an account. A gift card is not a bank account and cannot be used as one. However, once you have a bank account open, you can transfer money from the gift card into it using the methods described above.

What happens if my card expires before I transfer the balance?

Once a Mastercard gift card expires, you cannot use it to make purchases or withdraw cash. However, you may still be able to transfer the balance if that feature is available. Contact the issuer when ready if your card is about to expire and you have not moved the money yet.