The Ultimate Guide to Gifting Amazon Vouchers: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Giving a gift can sometimes be stressful. Finding the perfect present that the recipient will genuinely appreciate can feel like an impossible task. But what if there was a simple, universally appreciated gift that takes the guesswork out of the equation? Enter the Amazon voucher! An Amazon voucher offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing the recipient to choose exactly what they want from Amazon’s vast selection. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gifting Amazon vouchers, from selecting the right type to personalizing it for that special someone.
## Why Choose an Amazon Voucher?
Before diving into the ‘how-to,’ let’s consider why Amazon vouchers are such a fantastic gift option:
* **Unparalleled Choice:** Amazon offers millions of products, ranging from electronics and books to clothing, home goods, and groceries. The recipient can find something they truly need or desire.
* **Convenience:** With online shopping, the recipient can redeem the voucher from the comfort of their own home, at their own pace.
* **Flexibility:** Amazon vouchers come in various denominations, allowing you to choose an amount that fits your budget.
* **Personalization:** You can add a personal message to the voucher, making it more meaningful.
* **Last-Minute Savior:** Forgot a birthday or anniversary? An Amazon voucher can be purchased and delivered instantly, making it a perfect last-minute gift.
* **Suitable for Anyone:** Regardless of age, gender, or interests, almost everyone can find something useful on Amazon.
## Types of Amazon Vouchers Available
Amazon offers several types of vouchers to suit different preferences and situations:
* **Email Vouchers:** These are the most common and convenient type. The voucher code is delivered to the recipient’s email address, along with your personal message.
* **Printable Vouchers:** These vouchers can be downloaded and printed, allowing you to present a physical gift. This is a good option if you want to include the voucher in a card or gift basket.
* **Physical Gift Cards:** These are traditional plastic gift cards that are mailed to the recipient. They are a good choice for those who prefer a tangible gift.
* **Amazon eGift Cards in Animated Designs:** These are fun, animated eGift cards that add a touch of whimsy to your gift.
* **Gift Card in a Greeting Card:** This option combines the convenience of a gift card with the personal touch of a greeting card. Amazon offers a variety of designs to choose from.
* **Amazon Gift Card Multipacks:** For corporate gifting or sending multiple gifts, Amazon offers multipacks of gift cards.
## Step-by-Step Guide: How to Gift an Amazon Voucher
Here’s a detailed walkthrough of how to purchase and send an Amazon voucher, covering each of the main types.
### Gifting an Email Voucher
This is the easiest and fastest way to send an Amazon voucher.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:**
* Open your web browser and go to the Amazon website ([www.amazon.com](www.amazon.com) or your local Amazon domain).
* In the search bar, type “Amazon gift card” and press Enter. Alternatively, navigate to the “Gift Cards” section of the website, often found in the “Departments” menu or in the footer under “Help & Settings”.
2. **Choose the Email Option:**
* On the Amazon Gift Card page, you will see various options, including “E-mail,” “Print at Home,” “Physical Gift Card,” and others. Select the “E-mail” option. This will take you to the email gift card customization page.
3. **Select a Design:**
* Amazon offers a wide variety of designs for email gift cards, categorized by occasion (birthday, thank you, congratulations, etc.) and style (classic, modern, animated). Browse the available designs and choose one that suits the recipient and the occasion. You can filter designs by occasion or search for specific themes.
4. **Choose the Amount:**
* Select the amount you want to gift. Amazon usually offers preset amounts (e.g., $25, $50, $100) or allows you to enter a custom amount within a specified range. Choose an amount that fits your budget and the recipient’s needs.
5. **Enter Recipient’s Email Address:**
* In the designated field, enter the recipient’s email address carefully. Double-check the address to ensure accuracy, as the voucher will be sent to this address. An incorrect email address will delay or prevent the recipient from receiving the gift.
6. **Add a Personal Message:**
* Amazon allows you to add a personal message to the email gift card. This is a great way to make the gift more meaningful. Write a heartfelt message expressing your well wishes, congratulations, or thanks. Keep the message concise and appropriate for the occasion.
7. **Choose a Delivery Date:**
* You can choose to have the email voucher delivered immediately or schedule it for a future date. This is particularly useful if you’re buying the gift in advance for a birthday, holiday, or other special occasion. Select the desired delivery date from the calendar provided.
8. **Set the Quantity (Optional):**
* If you want to send the same email voucher to multiple recipients, you can adjust the quantity. However, this is less common for personal gifts and more suitable for corporate gifting.
9. **Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout:**
* Once you’ve customized the email voucher to your liking, click the “Add to Cart” button. This will add the voucher to your shopping cart.
* Proceed to checkout by clicking the cart icon in the upper right corner of the page and then clicking “Proceed to Checkout.”
10. **Review Your Order:**
* On the checkout page, carefully review your order to ensure that all the details are correct, including the recipient’s email address, the voucher amount, the delivery date, and your personal message. Double-check everything before proceeding.
11. **Select Payment Method:**
* Choose your preferred payment method. Amazon accepts various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, Amazon gift card balance, and other payment methods. Select the one you want to use.
12. **Place Your Order:**
* Once you’ve selected your payment method, click the “Place Your Order” button to complete the purchase. Amazon will send you an order confirmation email, and the email voucher will be delivered to the recipient on the specified date.
13. **Confirmation:**
* After the order is placed, you’ll receive an email confirmation. The recipient will receive the gift card on the specified date with your personalized message. If you’ve scheduled it for immediate delivery, they should receive it within minutes.
### Gifting a Printable Voucher
If you prefer to give a physical gift or want to include the voucher in a card, the printable option is a good choice.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:** Follow the same steps as for email vouchers to reach the Amazon Gift Card page.
2. **Choose the “Print at Home” Option:** Select the “Print at Home” option on the gift card page.
3. **Select a Design:** Choose a design that you like from the available options. Printable vouchers often have different designs than email vouchers.
4. **Choose the Amount:** Select the amount you want to gift, either from the preset options or by entering a custom amount.
5. **Add a Personal Message:** Enter a personal message that will be displayed on the printed voucher.
6. **Set the Quantity (Optional):** If you need multiple copies, adjust the quantity. This is useful for printing multiple vouchers of the same value and design.
7. **Preview and Print:** Click the “Preview” button to see how the voucher will look when printed. If you’re satisfied, click the “Print” button to download the voucher as a PDF file.
8. **Print the Voucher:** Open the PDF file and print the voucher on high-quality paper for a better presentation. Consider using cardstock for a more durable voucher.
9. **Present the Voucher:** Cut out the printed voucher along the indicated lines. You can then include it in a card, gift basket, or wrap it as a standalone gift.
### Gifting a Physical Gift Card
For a traditional gift-giving experience, a physical gift card is a great option.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:** Navigate to the Amazon Gift Card page as described earlier.
2. **Choose the “Physical Gift Card” Option:** Select the “Physical Gift Card” option.
3. **Select a Design:** Choose a design for the gift card. Amazon offers a variety of designs, including themed cards for different occasions and brands.
4. **Choose the Amount:** Select the amount you want to gift. Physical gift cards often have preset amounts, but some may allow you to enter a custom amount.
5. **Select a Delivery Option:** Choose how you want the gift card to be delivered. You can have it shipped to your address or directly to the recipient’s address.
6. **Add a Personal Message (Optional):** Some physical gift cards allow you to add a personal message that will be printed on a gift note or included with the card.
7. **Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout:** Add the gift card to your cart and proceed to checkout.
8. **Enter Shipping Information:** If you’re shipping the gift card directly to the recipient, enter their shipping address. Make sure the address is accurate to avoid delivery issues.
9. **Select Payment Method:** Choose your preferred payment method.
10. **Place Your Order:** Review your order and click the “Place Your Order” button to complete the purchase.
11. **Track the Shipment:** Amazon will provide tracking information for the shipment, allowing you to monitor its progress and ensure that it reaches the recipient on time.
### Gifting an Amazon eGift Card in Animated Designs
These are fun, animated eGift cards that add a touch of whimsy to your gift.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:** Follow the same steps as for email vouchers to reach the Amazon Gift Card page.
2. **Browse for Animated Designs:** In the filter options or search bar, look for animated eGift cards. Amazon frequently highlights these, especially around holidays.
3. **Select a Design:** Choose an animated design that you like from the available options. These designs often feature interactive elements and animations.
4. **Choose the Amount:** Select the amount you want to gift, either from the preset options or by entering a custom amount.
5. **Enter Recipient’s Email Address:** Enter the recipient’s email address carefully. Double-check the address to ensure accuracy.
6. **Add a Personal Message:** Add a personal message that will be displayed with the eGift card.
7. **Choose a Delivery Date:** You can choose to have the email voucher delivered immediately or schedule it for a future date.
8. **Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout:** Once you’ve customized the animated eGift card to your liking, click the “Add to Cart” button.
9. **Review Your Order:** On the checkout page, carefully review your order.
10. **Select Payment Method:** Choose your preferred payment method.
11. **Place Your Order:** Review your order and click the “Place Your Order” button to complete the purchase.
### Gifting a Gift Card in a Greeting Card
This option combines the convenience of a gift card with the personal touch of a greeting card.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:** Navigate to the Amazon Gift Card page as described earlier.
2. **Choose the “Gift Card in a Greeting Card” Option:** Select the “Gift Card in a Greeting Card” option.
3. **Select a Design:** Choose a design for the greeting card. Amazon offers a variety of designs to choose from, often categorized by occasion (birthday, thank you, congratulations, etc.).
4. **Choose the Amount:** Select the amount you want to gift. The available amounts may vary depending on the design.
5. **Write a Message:** Add a personal message that will be printed inside the greeting card. This is a great opportunity to express your feelings and make the gift more meaningful.
6. **Enter Shipping Information:** Enter the recipient’s shipping address. Ensure the address is accurate to avoid delivery issues.
7. **Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout:** Add the gift card in a greeting card to your cart and proceed to checkout.
8. **Select Payment Method:** Choose your preferred payment method.
9. **Place Your Order:** Review your order and click the “Place Your Order” button to complete the purchase.
### Gifting Amazon Gift Card Multipacks
For corporate gifting or sending multiple gifts, Amazon offers multipacks of gift cards.
1. **Go to the Amazon Gift Card Page:** Navigate to the Amazon Gift Card page as described earlier.
2. **Search for Multipacks:** Use the search bar and type “Amazon Gift Card Multipack”.
3. **Choose the Multipack:** Select the Multipack that suits your needs, based on quantity and card value.
4. **Add your Business Information (If Needed):** For corporate gifting there is often options to add business logos or information on a sleeve, depending on the specific multipack ordered.
5. **Choose the Amount:** Select the amount you want to gift. Multipacks often have preset amounts.
6. **Enter Shipping Information:** Enter the recipient’s shipping address or your own if distributing personally. Ensure the address is accurate to avoid delivery issues.
7. **Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout:** Add the multipack to your cart and proceed to checkout.
8. **Select Payment Method:** Choose your preferred payment method.
9. **Place Your Order:** Review your order and click the “Place Your Order” button to complete the purchase.
## Redeeming an Amazon Voucher
Once the recipient receives the Amazon voucher, redeeming it is simple:
1. **Find the Voucher Code:** The voucher code is usually found in the email or on the printed voucher. It’s a long string of letters and numbers.
2. **Go to Amazon:** Log in to your Amazon account or create a new one if you don’t have one.
3. **Redeem a Gift Card:** Go to “Your Account” and select “Gift Cards.” Then, click “Redeem a Gift Card.”
4. **Enter the Code:** Enter the voucher code in the designated field and click “Apply to Your Balance.”
5. **Start Shopping:** The voucher amount will be added to your Amazon account balance and can be used for future purchases.
## Tips for Personalizing Your Amazon Voucher Gift
While Amazon vouchers are convenient, adding a personal touch can make them even more special:
* **Write a Heartfelt Message:** Take the time to write a thoughtful and personalized message. Share a memory, express your appreciation, or offer words of encouragement.
* **Choose a Design that Reflects the Recipient’s Interests:** Select a design that aligns with the recipient’s hobbies, interests, or personality. For example, if they love gardening, choose a design with flowers or plants.
* **Consider the Occasion:** Tailor the message and design to the specific occasion. A birthday voucher should have a celebratory theme, while a thank-you voucher should express your gratitude.
* **Wrap the Voucher Creatively:** If you’re giving a printed voucher or a physical gift card, get creative with the presentation. Use decorative paper, ribbons, or a small gift box.
* **Include a Small Additional Gift:** Consider pairing the voucher with a small, complementary gift. For example, if the recipient loves reading, you could include a bookmark or a small notebook.
* **Explain Why You Chose the Voucher:** In your message, explain why you decided to give an Amazon voucher. Mention that you wanted them to have the freedom to choose something they truly need or want.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
While gifting Amazon vouchers is generally straightforward, here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
* **Voucher Code Not Working:**
* Double-check the code for typos. Make sure you’re entering it correctly.
* Ensure the voucher hasn’t already been redeemed.
* Contact Amazon customer service for assistance.
* **Recipient Didn’t Receive the Email:**
* Ask the recipient to check their spam or junk folder.
* Verify that you entered the correct email address.
* Contact Amazon customer service to resend the email.
* **Payment Issues:**
* Ensure your payment method is valid and has sufficient funds.
* Try using a different payment method.
* Contact your bank or credit card company for assistance.
* **Delivery Issues with Physical Gift Cards:**
* Track the shipment to see its current status.
* Contact Amazon customer service if the gift card is lost or delayed.
## Conclusion
An Amazon voucher is a versatile and thoughtful gift that offers something for everyone. By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently purchase and personalize Amazon vouchers for any occasion. Whether you choose an email voucher, a printable voucher, or a physical gift card, the recipient is sure to appreciate the flexibility and convenience of this gift. So, next time you’re looking for the perfect present, consider the simplicity and universal appeal of an Amazon voucher. It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving, allowing the recipient to choose exactly what they want and need from Amazon’s vast selection. Happy gifting!