Getting a Starbucks Gift Card Refund

A couple of weeks ago I purchased a Starbucks gift card for a friend. Unfortunately, our plans got canceled and I was stuck again with another Starbucks gift card. At first I thought about just using it for myself but I'm not really a fan of their food or drinks.  So only choice I had was to find a way to get a refund on the gift card. Below are the steps I took to get a full refund:

1. Ensure that the gift card has not been registered to anyone else and that you still have your receipt if you bought it at a Starbucks store.

2. Get your Starbucks account info and your receipt on hand. Also, if possible make sure you know the answer to your security question. Once you gather all of the info, call 1800-782-7282

3. Follow the prompts that instruct you to enter the Starbucks card 16 digit number and 3 random numbers provided by prompt

4. The card balance will be provided. Listen to the options and the last one will be to speak to a rep (press 0)

5. When the rep answers they will ask for the email address and/or phone number tied to your account. Explain to them that you are calling because you would like to request a refund for an unused gift card. They may transfer you to another rep or put you on hold after listening to your request

6. They will let you know that a check can be sent to you for the amount of the card but in order for this to happen they will need the pin code on the back of the card plus store number and transaction number. Unfortunately the transaction number exist when you buy the card through the app so let them know that you can provide the reference number instead.

7. After providing the info above, they will follow up with the  security question tied to your account. They will fill out a form on their end which will put in a request to deplete the amount from the gift card. Finally they will provide you with a reference number and inform you that your check will arrive in 10-15 business days. 

8. A couple of days after you will receive an email (image below) from Starbucks regarding your check request.

9. 2-3 Weeks later you will receive a check in the mail

Refund check from Starbucks

Email sent by Starbucks confirming request