I found the best way to check Nordstrom gift card balance

I received a stack of Nordstrom gift cards during the holidays, and I badly needed an easier way to track my balances in preparation for my spending sprees. Like most buyers, I first suspected checking my balance to be a hassle, but I insisted I could use the most convenient alternative.

I tried every option, from visiting in person to using the website and calling customer service. In doing so, I determined that some options were much more manageable.

In this article, I’ll share the best way to check your Nordstrom gift card balance and reveal which method worked best.

Key Takeaways 

• The Nordstrom website and mobile app are the most convenient way to check Nordstrom card balance. For immediate access, you need only your PIN and card number.
• You can save your gift card information in your Nordstrom.com account to quickly check your balance without accessing your physical card.
• The Nordstrom app will remind you with convenient low-balance alerts to spare you any embarrassing experiences at checkout.
• Nordstrom will help you recover your balance if your card is lost or stolen, provided you have the original receipt or card registration information.
• The most convenient way to check your Nordstrom gift card balance is to add it to your online account, and I have found that it is the easiest method.

Four ways to check your Nordstrom gift card balance

After testing several options to check Nordstrom card balance, I have determined the three most effective ones. I will detail below how each one works:

Online on the Nordstrom website:

1. Locate your PIN and card number at the back of your Nordstrom gift card—you’ll need these handy.
2. Go to Nordstrom’s website at www.nordstrom.com.

3. Click on the Gifts option from the menu options at the top of the page.
4. From the different options, click on Gift Cards.

5. Click on Check Balance.

6. Enter your PIN and your gift card number in the respective fields.

7. Click on Check Balance so you can instantly see your current balance.

I enjoy how speedy this process is as I can verify my balance in seconds when I’m about to make an online purchase.

Via phone:

1. Call Nordstrom’s customer service at 1-800-964-1800.

2. Choose your preferred language.
3. Choose the gift card balance option.
4. Keep your Nordstrom gift card to provide the card number and PIN when prompted.
5. Use your keypad to input the information you need.
6. Listen closely, and you’ll hear your current balance.

Having my card information in front of me when I placed the call was helpful.

Via the Nordstrom mobile app:

1. Download the Nordstrom app via your device app store.
2. Open your app and log in to your account (or create an account if needed).
3. In the app, go to the Gift Cards section.
4. Tap on Check Balance.
5. Input your PIN and gift card number, then click Check Balance.
6. You’ll immediately see the current balance of your gift card.

The app method is my favorite because I can save my card information for future balance checks.

In-store at Nordstrom locations:

1. Visit any Nordstrom store.
2. Have a sales associate confirm your gift card balance.
3. Give them your physical Nordstrom gift card.
4. They will scan it through their computer, and the current balance will appear on their register.

I use this method most when I’m at a store and prefer to have my budget for a purchase in mind.

What worked best for me: my go-to method

After carefully testing all four options, Nordstrom’s mobile app is hands-down the most convenient. As convenient and dependable as its website and convenient when in stores, its mobile app integrates a little of everything with a bit of value added in between.

The app is helpful because I can have it wherever I go and don’t have to sit at my computer or in a store. On busy shopping days, such as during huge sales events, I can view my balance at a glance when browsing racks, even in a checkout line. Having my gift card information saved in my app keeps me from having to carry my physical card with me and remember long strings of numbers.

What distinguishes the app, however, is its added feature sets. I can schedule balance warnings, track my spending history, and even save a stack of gift cards in one convenient location. When I’m ready to purchase, I can use the card in one go without pulling it out of my purse or re-enter the codes.

Where website checking is my fallback option, and I do in-person checking when I’m in a bind, I make most of my Nordstrom purchases via its app. Whether I’m getting ready for a big purchase or I want to double-check that I have enough in my pocket for that perfect find, my app makes it easier for me.

Common challenges you might encounter and how to solve them

I have encountered a range of Nordstrom gift card problems. Here are the most common issues I’ve encountered and the most effective solutions for them:

1. Lost or Damaged Card

Physical gift cards can be misplaced in your purse or even destroyed in the washer. It can become an issue when you have a high balance on them.

The Solution:

• Register your Nordstrom gift card in your Nordstrom account once you receive it. 
• Take a picture of both sides of your card and store them safely. 
• Store your original receipt and activation information in a safe place. 
• If your card is lost or damaged, report it to Nordstrom customer service with these details and have your balance re-loaded onto a new card when your ownership is confirmed.

2. Website Technical Issues

Nordstrom’s site sometimes slows down, most noticeably during sales events. Checking your balance can also slow the loading time and display an error message.

The Solution:

• Use the Nordstrom app instead of the website because it’s usually more stable.
• Clear your web browser’s cookies and cache when visiting the website.
• Try checking your balance during off-peak times.
• Ensure that your internet connection is secure.
• Keep your mobile app updated with its latest version.

3. Balance Discrepancies

Your actual and expected balance will sometimes vary, mainly after you make new purchases and returns.

The Solution:

• Keep all your transaction receipts until your balance appears accurately.
• Take pictures of your receipts as a backup.
• Document the date and location of any suspicious transactions.
• Contact customer service with detailed transaction information in case of any discrepancies.
• Check your balance in several ways to confirm its accuracy.

4. Card Number and PIN Issues

The physical gift card numbers can become blurred and obscured with use over time, and checking them can become problematic.

The Solution:

• Keep your gift card information in your Nordstrom account via the site or app.
• Save your payment information on the Nordstrom mobile app.
• Keep your PINs and card numbers in a secure digital file.
• Take pictures of any new cards you get before they wear out.
• Keep your physical cards in a protective case.
• Handle your card gently to prevent wear-off of the numbers.

Tips for managing your Nordstrom gift card

Through my experience trying the best way to check gift card balance, I’ve developed several effective management strategies:

• Snap both sides of your gift cards and store them in your Nordstrom account for safekeeping and future access at any time.
• Turn on low-balance notifications for your Nordstrom app balance so that you won’t be surprised at checkout. Set them to alert you when your balance drops below $50.
• Activate your gift cards with your Nordstrom Rewards account soon after getting them to earn points for all your purchases and receive additional discounts and deals.
• Keep your activation receipt safe until you have exhausted the full value of your gift card—they will become helpful in future balance disputes.
• Consider rolling over a stack of low-value gift cards onto one for easier tracking and convenient use during massive sales events.
• Keep your physical cards in a protective case, out of direct sunlight and heat, to prevent damage to the magnetic strip and card numbers.
• Keep payment screenshots and have a simple sheet for tracking your expenses, especially during the Anniversary and Half-Yearly sales when you will most likely make several purchases.

FAQs about Nordstrom gift cards

Can I check my Nordstrom gift card balance without the physical card?

Yes. You can check your Nordstrom gift card balance without the physical card if you have the information in your Nordstrom account or a picture of your card with your PIN and number. I store all that information digitally when I get a new gift card.

How do I reload my Nordstrom gift card?

You can reload the Nordstrom gift card via the website, app, or any Nordstrom store. I prefer recharging through the app because my payment information stays saved and is easily accessible. The minimum reload value is $5; payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or cash (in stores alone).

What should I do if my gift card balance doesn’t match my records?

First, review your most recent purchase receipts to track your expenses. If there are any discrepancies, notify Nordstrom’s customer service with your credit information and a complete transaction record. Having your receipts with you will allow them to act quickly.

Is there an expiration date on my Nordstrom gift card?

No. Nordstrom gift cards don’t have an expiration date and no fee with them. Nevertheless, I recommend registering your card in your Nordstrom.com account to protect your balance in case your card is lost or damaged.

Can I use my Nordstrom gift card to make online purchases?

Yes. You can use your Nordstrom gift card to make a purchase at Nordstrom.com and in the Nordstrom app. To apply your gift card, simply enter it as your payment method in your account. I often use this feature when I shop at Nordstrom, especially during massive sales events.

Final thoughts: make the most of your Nordstrom gift card

I have researched all my options for redeeming Nordstrom gift cards and concluded that my best option is through Nordstrom.com. It’s convenient and quick, and I have peace of mind knowing I can access my balance anywhere and anytime.

Nordstrom gift card management doesn’t have to be a problem. A simple routine can make your buying experience work. The best approach is to have a routine and follow it consistently.

Register for a Nordstrom.com account and download Nordstrom’s app if you haven’t yet. It’s changed my life regarding my gift cards, and I can easily manage them and make purchases at one of my staple stores.