Unused Gift Card showing zero balance

[jessica2222]

I just tried to use a brand new gift card for $50. It is showing $0 balance. It was brand new, I just removed it from the backing and revealed the code. I have the receipt from the gift giver verifying it was purchased at Meijer for $50 on 12/9/23 and was unopened since then. 

What can be done to resolve this? Thank you. 

[jessica2222]

Update for anyone searching on this: Sephora customer service asked for images of the card, and then told me it was never activated by Meijer (the supermarket) and I’d have to talk to them. My MIL had included the original receipt with the gift, so the next time I was in her town, I went to the store with the card, receipts. Meijer immediately took it from me and refunded the cash (or offered another gift card).

But I am also warning my MIL against buying gift cards at all box stores from now on.

[AM90706]

Hello, I just tried to use my Sephora $50 gc that was purchased at Albertsons by my sister for my birthday and it had a $0 balance. I contacted customer service and they gave me a phone number I plan to try tomorrow (844)646-9393. I hope I will be able to report back with good news.

[keelybt]

@AM90706 I'm sorry to hear that! I will send you a PM. 

[123kids4me]

The exact same thing is happening to me. I received a $50 gift card for Christmas from family. I scratched the back off last night to use it, and got a message that it has a $0 balance. Sephora — this appears to be happening constantly! Is there anything that can be done? 

[LaurieBT]

Hi @123kids4me,

I'm sorry about this! I'll send you a message shortly.

Best regards,

Laurie 

[DaneeBT]

@jessica2222 Oh no! I'll send you a PM.

[dd38]

This exact same thing is happening to me and I'm so frustrated!!

I was given two $25 gift cards, which I tried to use this weekend at a store and was told they have $0 balance, which is not possible because we pealed the seal off right there at checkout. I assumed it was the employee's error, so I came home to try it on the Sephora website and I'm getting the same error message.

These gift cards were purchased at Albertsons one month ago, in March. I called the Sephora customer service line and received no help from the agent. I was told "it's not our responsibility to fix" and that I should try contacting Albertsons. This is a completely unacceptable response!