Getting a Google Play gift card is always exciting for an Android user, but nothing feels worse than trying to redeem it and seeing a "Google Play card not working" error. Frustrating, right? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! This happens to a lot of people.
If you've found yourself asking, "Why can't I redeem my Google Play card?" we have got you covered. We’ve compiled the most common errors people face and the simplest solutions to fix them. Keep reading to find out how to solve these issues!
How to Redeem Google Play Gift Cards Easily?
Before we get into the reasons for your Google Play gift card not working, let us share with you the steps to redeem your card.
1) Sign into your Google Play Store Account. You can do this on the Play Store App or in the browser.
2) Go to the profile section. On the app, its on the top right corner.
3) Select Payment and Subscriptions from the menu.
4) Tap "Redeem Code"/ On the next screen, you will be required to enter the code. You also have the choice to scan your gift card. Proceed to redeem your Google Play gift card.
This is the stage where you might end up seeing any one of the errors listed below. Let's look at these in detail!
Common Problems Faced When Redeeming Google Gift Cards
1) We Need More Info to Redeem Your Google Play Gift Card Error
This is one of the most common errors faced by Google Play gift card users. Unfortunately, the exact reason behind this error is rarely clear. However we do have the we need more info to redeem your gift card google play fix. The only way to resolve it is by contacting Google Support. You can either chat with them directly or send them an email. They will guide you through the process and may ask you to fill out and submit this form: Google Play Support Form.
These are the things that you’ll need to provide:
- Clear images of the front and back of your Google Play card.
- Proof of purchase (receipt).
- The name of the store where the card was purchased.
- The city where you bought the card.
Once you’ve submitted these details, Google Support will review your case and help you resolve the issue.
2) Invalid Code
Another error you might encounter is: "There is a problem with that code. Try a different one." There are a couple of reasons why this error could occur:
a) Your card hasn’t been activated.
b) You may have made a typo while entering the Google Play gift card code.
How to Solve It?
Start by carefully double-checking the code you entered. Typos are common, so ensure every character is correct.
If the issue persists, your card may not have been activated. Some physical Google Play gift cards require activation at the point of purchase. Reach out to the retailer where you bought the card and ask them to confirm its activation. Once activated, try redeeming your Google Play gift card again.
If you are still facing the issue, your best bet is to contact Google Support for further assistance.
3) Code Has Been Redeemed Already
Seeing the error “This code has already been redeemed” can be frustrating, especially when you’ve just purchased a Google Play gift card. This message usually means the code has already been used, but it can also indicate potential misuse or an issue with the card’s activation.
How to Solve It?
Log in to your Google Play account and review your balance or recent transaction history. Sometimes, the code might have been redeemed successfully, but the balance hasn't been updated yet.
If the code wasn’t redeemed by you, consider where you purchased the card. If it’s from an unofficial seller or a third-party website, there’s a chance the code was resold after being redeemed.
If you’re certain the card hasn’t been used by you, reach out to Google Support. They will investigate the issue and help determine whether the card was compromised or if there’s another issue.
4) Reached Google Play Balance Redemption Limit
This error is triggered when your existing Google Play balance reaches the maximum allowable amount. When you try to redeem a new gift card or code, you’ll encounter an error message that says: “You have reached your redemption limit. You can try redeeming your card/code when your limit resets.
How to Fix It?
The simplest solution is to use your existing Google Play balance to make purchases. You can buy apps, games, movies, books, or subscriptions on the Google Play Store. Once you’ve brought your balance below the limit, you’ll be able to redeem your gift card.
In some cases, your balance redemption limit resets periodically, such as monthly. You can try waiting until the limit is refreshed and then attempt to redeem your gift card again.
5) Issue with Your Google Account
Sometimes, the reason you can’t redeem your Google Play gift card isn’t the card itself but an issue with your Google account. These problems can range from outdated account information to verification issues, and they can prevent you from successfully redeeming your gift card.
How to Fix It?
a) Go to your Google Account settings and check that your personal information, including your name, address, and payment details, is accurate and up to date. If prompted, complete any verification steps required by Google.
b) If your account has been flagged for unusual activity, log in to your Google Account and check for notifications. Follow Google’s instructions to resolve the issue, which might include changing your password or verifying recent activity.
c) Ensure that your Google Account is set to the correct country or region where Google Play gift cards are supported. If needed, update your region settings in Google Payments Center to match the location where the gift card was purchased.
Conclusion:
In the blog above, we have covered in detail why you can't redeem your Google Play card. Please read in detail to understand how to fix the problem you might be facing.
However, if you’re considering an alternative to redeeming your card on the Google Play Store, why not sell it for cash instead? Platforms like Cardgoal, a trusted gift card trading platform in Nigeria, make it easy to convert your Google Play gift card into cash. Whether you’re looking for quick cash or simply want to make the most of your gift card, Cardgoal is a reliable option to consider.