Do you need help adding your Starbucks gift card to the Starbucks app?
Or maybe it's your first time doing it. Don't stress too much; I'm here to help.
Today, you’ll learn how to add a new gift card or an existing card to the Starbucks app so you can start earning stars when you purchase using the card.
Let’s get started!
Adding Starbucks Gift Card To The App (Step By Step)
1. Download The Mobile App
Before you add a gift card to the Starbucks app, you need to have the app downloaded on your phone.
If you don't have it yet, you can download it from the Google Play Store for Android users and App Store for iPhone users.
Important Reminder: There are two types of Starbucks cards: physical and e-gift (digital) cards. Both cards can be added to the Starbucks app, so you can simply follow the guide for both types.

2. Create Or Sign-In To Your Account
After downloading the app, you must sign in to your Starbucks account.
If you don't have an existing one, create one to earn rewards and add a Starbucks gift card.

3. Add The Card
Once you've signed in to your account, you can add a gift card to the Starbucks app.
There are two ways to add the card: through the Cards screen or the Gifts screen.
Let's first discuss adding cards through the Cards screen:
Another way to add a card to the Starbucks app is through the Gift screen. To do this, follow the steps below:

What Exactly Is A Starbucks Gift Card?
Also known as the Starbucks card, a Starbucks gift card is a prepaid card that can be used as payment for coffee and other products.
This can be in the form of a physical card or an e-gift card.
If you add the card to the Starbucks app, you can pay for your purchases while earning stars.
The funds on the card are transferred to your account on the app, allowing you to pay by simply using the app.
On top of using it for payment, the card offers numerous perks to users.
Some perks include free refills, no charge for additional syrups, and more.[1]
The points you'll earn from every purchase can be used to redeem perks such as free drinks, free add-ins, or free bakery goods and other in-store merchandise.
This gift card is also one of the most popular cards during the holiday season.
It is also a popular reward for people who answer online surveys and prizes for corporate raffles.

Can You Transfer The Balance Between Starbucks Gift Cards?
Yes, you can transfer your gift card balance from one Starbucks card to another.
This is perfect for those who have several cards and can’t seem to manage all of their balances.
Follow the steps below to transfer your balance from one card to another:
- 1From the Starbucks app, tap Cards from the menu found on the bottom part of the screen.
- 2On the Cards screen, tap the Details next to the card you want to transfer the balance from.
- 3Next, tap Transfer Balance from the menu. This will open a new window.
- 4Then, type in how much you want to transfer from this card to another card. I suggest you put everything on your primary card. This will allow you to track and manage all your purchases into one card.
- 5Once you’ve chosen the primary card or another card, tap the Transfer button, and you're all set.
- 6Lastly, check your card to see if all the balances are there. Now, you can use this card to pay for all your orders. All you have to do is scan the card.
What To Do If The Starbucks App Isn’t Working
Whether you’re using an iPhone or an Android phone, the problems you’ll encounter when you add a gift card to the app are usually the same.
Below are some of the most common ones:
Balance Not Showing On The App
If you’ve just added the card to the app, please wait a few minutes for the balance to show.
While some can be added instantly, others may take time.
If it still hasn’t appeared after a while, go to the Payment options and tap Manage Starbucks Cards.
Then, refresh the balance. Your updated balance should appear now. The same method applies to transfers.
If the balance in your receiving card hasn’t been updated after the transfer, do the same steps above.
App Not Loading
If the app won’t open or load properly, the first thing you need to try is to completely close the app before opening it again.
If this doesn’t work, restart your phone. If restarting your phone still doesn’t fix the issue, uninstall the app and download it again.
You can also do this method if your app keeps crashing while you add a gift card to the app.
Common Starbucks Gift Card Questions
Do you have to activate a Starbucks gift card?
No, you don't need to activate your Starbucks gift card, as it is already activated upon purchase. Once you've added it to the app, you can use it right away.
How do I add a gift card to Starbucks app without a security code?
Unfortunately, you can’t add a gift card to the app without a security code. Without it, your card wouldn’t be validated.
Do Starbucks gift cards expire?
No, Starbucks gift cards don’t expire.[2]
Can two people use the same Starbucks card?
No, two people can’t use the same card. The Starbucks card is non-transferrable and can’t be shared even with family members.
Can you buy Starbucks gift cards with the app?
Yes, you can buy Starbucks gift cards on the app. Just be sure to complete the checkout for a successful purchase.
Can you add a Visa gift card to the Starbucks app?
Yes, you can add a Visa gift card to the Starbucks app. However, it can only be used to add balance to an existing card and can't be added as a new one.
Conclusion
Did you find my answer helpful?
Just remember, when you add a gift card to the app, make sure that you have the complete details of the card to avoid any issues.
If the security code or card number is missing, you might have gotten a fraudulent card.
You also need to have a Starbucks account to complete this process.
References:
1. https://www.starbucks.com/rewards#starcode
2. https://www.starbucks.com/terms/manage-gift-cards/