Many streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ all offer gift cards or gift subscriptions. Before you buy, there are various things you need to consider: whether you can refund them, what happens when the subscription expires, who might not appreciate them, and so on.
We’re going to cover everything you need to know about streaming service gift cards.
What Type of Streaming Service Gift Subscriptions Are Available?
This depends on the streaming service. Some sell digital codes, others sell physical cards. Some of them are account credit, others are for a fixed term.
For example, Disney+ only sells annual subscriptions as digital gifts. The recipient receives the code via email, which they then redeem to get a year’s access to Disney+. However, the recipient must use a new Disney+ account—the subscription can’t be applied to an existing account.
On the other hand, Netflix sell physical and digital gift cards that work as account credit. The recipient redeems the credit to their account and uses this to pay for whatever type of membership they desire.
In nearly all cases, you’re paying a set amount, rather than signing up to pay a recurring cost. When the subscription expires, it’s up to the recipient to decide whether they wish to continue.
Do All Streaming Services Sell Gift Cards?
No. While most streaming services offer some sort of gift subscription, not all of them do.
Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, Disney+, and Discovery+ are all examples of major services that sell gift subscriptions.
While you can’t buy Apple TV+ gift cards, you can buy Apple gift cards. You can use these not only on Apple TV+, but also Apple Arcade, Apple Music, Apple Books, and more.
HBO Max, Peacock, and Shudder are all examples of those you can’t gift. But if you’re desperate, you could set up an account with a subscription and share the login details.
Are Streaming Gift Cards Easy to Use?
Yes. If it’s a physical card, usually the recipient visits the URL printed on it, types in a code, registers an account, and they’re off.
If it’s a digital code, the process is even easier. It usually amounts to clicking a link and signing up.
Most people are familiar with streaming services, so it’s not a foreign concept. Your recipient will be able to enjoy their gift in no time.
Do Streaming Gift Cards Expire?
Generally, most streaming service’s gift cards don’t expire. For example, Hulu, Netflix, and Paramount+ all sell gift cards that have no expiry date. Of course, check the terms before purchase.
That said, it’s best for your recipient not to sit on the gift card for years. While it’s unlikely that Netflix is going out of service any time soon, if a service shuts down then it’s under no obligation to honor the gift card.
Can You Refund Streaming Gift Cards?
In most cases, no, you can’t return your streaming gift card for a refund. As such, it’s best to be confident that your recipient will actually want to use your gift.
If they don’t, they could always sell the unwanted gift card or regift it, and you’ll be none the wiser!
When Are Streaming Gift Cards a Good Present?
If your recipient is a movie and TV lover, it’s certain that they’ll appreciate your streaming gift card, especially if it’s for a service that they haven’t used yet. Most streaming services offer their own original content, which means your recipient will be able to enjoy things they’ve never seen anywhere else.
Perhaps there’s a series they’ve wanted to see for ages, or one you’ve recommended to them. Even if it’s available on DVD or Blu-ray, it’s likely still cheaper to gift a subscription to a service that hosts it.
Are Streaming Gift Cards Better Than Cash?
Unless someone has specifically asked to receive money, gifting cash is a bit lazy. It can suggest that you haven’t put much thought into the present and that you scrambled at the last minute.
Of course, a streaming service gift card doesn’t have the flexibility of cash, but it does mean you don’t need to send money through the mail if your recipient lives far away—or suffer the impersonal touch of wiring the money into their bank account.
When Are Streaming Gift Cards a Bad Present?
Though you surely mean well with your gift, it might not always be the best choice.
For example, it’s not ideal if your recipient is already time poor. If they use the subscription and only watch a couple of things, it’s been a bit of a waste. Perhaps buying them a theater gift card, which they can use across a longer period, would be better?
It’s also not the best gift for those with an unreliable internet connection. While many streaming services offer offline downloads, their connect may not be strong enough to handle that in the first place.
Give the Gift of Streaming
Whether it’s for Christmas, a birthday, or just for a fun surprise, a streaming gift card makes for a simple and thoughtful gift that will surely go down well. Just do your research beforehand, so you know the limitations that the streaming service imposes on your gift.
Regardless, it’s certainly more creative than giving someone money!
