I just got a gift card for Tesco. How does that work?

A Tesco gift card is a prepaid card that can be used to purchase goods and services at Tesco stores and online at Tesco.com. Here's a detailed guide on how it works:

### 1. **Receiving the Gift Card**
- **Physical Gift Card**: This is a plastic card similar to a credit or debit card. It will have a barcode or a magnetic strip that can be scanned at checkout.
- **Digital Gift Card**: This is an electronic version, usually sent via email. It contains a unique code that can be entered online or scanned in-store.

### 2. **Checking the Balance**
- **In-Store**: You can ask the cashier to check the balance for you at the checkout counter.
- **Online**: Go to the Tesco website or app, navigate to the gift card section, and enter the card number to check the balance.
- **Customer Service**: You can call Tesco customer service, provide your gift card number, and they will inform you of the balance.

### 3. **Using the Gift Card In-Store**
- **At Checkout**: When you’re ready to pay, present your physical gift card to the cashier, or show the barcode/QR code on your digital card. The cashier will scan it, and the value of your purchase will be deducted from the card's balance.
- **Partial Payment**: If your purchase exceeds the balance on the gift card, you can pay the remaining amount using another payment method like cash, debit, or credit card.
- **Remaining Balance**: If your purchase is less than the balance on the gift card, the remaining balance will stay on the card for future use.

### 4. **Using the Gift Card Online**
- **During Checkout**: On the payment page, select the option to pay with a gift card. Enter the gift card number and PIN (if applicable). The amount will be deducted from the card balance.
- **Combining Payments**: If the gift card balance doesn’t cover the entire purchase, you can pay the difference with another payment method.

### 5. **Expiry Date**
- Tesco gift cards typically have an expiry date, which is usually 5 years from the date of the last transaction (e.g., a purchase or balance check). It's important to use the card before it expires, as any remaining balance will be lost.

### 6. **Lost or Stolen Cards**
- If your gift card is lost or stolen, Tesco might not be able to replace it unless you have the original receipt or proof of purchase. Contact Tesco customer service immediately if this happens.

### 7. **Where You Can Use It**
- **Tesco Stores**: The card can be used in any Tesco store, including Tesco Extra, Tesco Express, and Tesco Metro.
- **Tesco Online**: The card can also be used on Tesco.com for groceries, clothing, and other items.

### 8. **Restrictions**
- Tesco gift cards generally cannot be used to purchase other gift cards.
- Some items, such as tobacco or lottery tickets, may be restricted from purchase with a gift card, depending on local laws and store policies.

### 9. **Additional Information**
- **Gifting the Card**: If you received the card as a gift, you can re-gift it to someone else if you choose not to use it.
- **Reloading**: Some Tesco gift cards can be reloaded with additional funds, but this may depend on the specific type of card you have.

Tesco gift cards are a flexible and convenient way to shop at Tesco, both in-store and online. Make sure to keep track of the balance and expiry date to get the most out of your card.

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