Does Activation Cost Money? GiftCardMall MyGift Card Fees Explained (2025)

Wondering if there’s a fee to activate your GiftCardMall MyGift Visa or Mastercard?

Here’s what you need to know about activation fees, card setup charges, and hidden costs in 2025.


✅ No — Activation Itself Is Free

You can activate your MyGift card online or by phone without paying anything extra.

  • ✅ Online activation: giftcardmall.com/mygift
  • ✅ Phone activation: 1-877-322-4710
  • ✅ No credit card or login required

🔒 Activation is included in the purchase price of the card.


⚠️ But There Is a Purchase Fee

When you buy a MyGift card, you pay a one-time activation/purchase fee — usually between $3.95 to $6.95, depending on:

  • The card amount (higher balance = higher fee)
  • Where you buy it (in-store vs. online)
  • Card design or packaging (e.g. custom gift card wrappers)

🧾 Breakdown of Typical Fees

Card ValueActivation / Purchase Fee
$25 card$3.95 – $4.95
$50 card$4.95 – $5.95
$100 card$5.95 – $6.95
$200+ cardMay exceed $6.95

🕵️ Hidden Fees to Watch For

Fee TypeDescription
Inactivity Fee$4.95/month after 12 months of no use
International Fee3% foreign transaction (card not valid outside U.S.)
Replacement FeeAround $5 if you lose the card
Rush Delivery FeeFor expedited card shipping (online orders)

🔗 Where to Find Exact Fees


🔹 Is It Worth Paying the Activation Fee?

If you’re using the card as a gift or temporary prepaid solution, yes.
For larger balances, the activation fee becomes less significant.

Example: On a $100 card with a $5.95 fee → you’re paying 5.95%


🔗 Related Guides


❓ FAQs

Is activation free? Yes, the activation process is free — but a one-time purchase fee is included when buying the card. Why did I pay $105 for a $100 card? That extra $5 is the purchase/activation fee. It does not go onto the card. Can I avoid the activation fee? Not really. All prepaid Visa/Mastercards have a setup fee — only digital gift cards might be free.


⚠️ Disclaimer

We are an independent help site. Always review the official cardholder agreement before purchase.

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