A Mastercard gift card is a prepaid payment card loaded with a specific amount of money that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Unlike store-specific gift cards that limit you to one retailer, Mastercard gift cards are “open-loop”—meaning they work at millions of online and in-store locations worldwide.
They look and function much like a debit or credit card but are not linked to a bank account. Once the loaded balance is spent, the card cannot be reloaded (unless stated otherwise by the issuer).
Prepaid Value: You choose a dollar amount when purchasing.
No Credit Check: They’re not credit cards—no credit score impact.
Universal Use: Accepted anywhere Mastercard is taken.
Expiration Dates: Typically have an expiration for card use, usually ranging from 6 months to 1 year. The Swype Global Mastercard offered by Toasty Card has a 3 year expiration.
|
Feature |
Physical Mastercard Gift Card |
Digital Mastercard Gift Card |
|
Format |
Plastic card mailed or purchased in-store |
Virtual card sent via email |
|
Delivery Time |
Days to weeks (plus shipping fees) |
Instant or scheduled delivery |
|
Security |
Can be lost/stolen |
Stored securely in email/mobile wallet |
|
Eco-Friendly |
Requires plastic production |
Zero plastic waste |
Mastercard gift cards are accepted at millions of merchants in over 210 countries. They’re perfect for domestic purchases and travel alike.
Use them to pay at your favorite retail stores, restaurants, subscription services, or e-commerce platforms.
Ideal for birthdays, holidays, employee rewards, customer loyalty programs, or promotional giveaways.
Many issuers charge a one-time activation fee at purchase—typically $2.95–$6.95 depending on the card’s value.
Some cards deduct monthly fees if unused for a set period (often 12 months).
If you use your card internationally, expect a currency conversion or foreign transaction fee.
Look for providers like Toasty Card, whose Swype Mastercard charges no activation fees. The only costs your recipient might encounter are minimal inactivity fees or a standard foreign transaction fee.
Some financial institutions offer Mastercard gift cards to account holders—sometimes with lower fees.
Purchase in-person for quick gifting, but watch for higher activation fees.
Toasty Card’s Swype Global Mastercard is a standout in 2025. It’s digital, fee-free, and accepted internationally—making it a smarter choice than most store-bought cards.
If you want a tangible gift to hand over in person, physical cards are still a good choice.
Easily send digital cards for work anniversaries, bonuses, or milestones.
Offer a Mastercard gift card as an incentive to join your program or make a purchase.
Drive engagement at trade shows or virtual events.
If your recipient is abroad, choose an internationally accepted card like the Toasty Card Swype Global Mastercard—usable in most countries.
Enter the card number, expiry date, and CVV at checkout.
Tap to pay using your mobile wallet at any payment terminal that accepts Mastercard.
Mastercard gift cards continue to be one of the most versatile, secure, and globally accepted gifting options available.
In 2025, the best choice for maximum value is Toasty Card’s Swype Mastercard—a no-fee, internationally accepted digital card that delivers instant, customizable rewards without hidden costs.
Whether for personal gifting or corporate incentives, Mastercard gift cards—especially the Swype Mastercard—offer unmatched flexibility and convenience.
What's even better? The Toasty Choice Card allows recipients to choose from any brand, including the MasterCard. Create a free account or book a demo to learn more.
A: Yes, most Mastercard gift cards expire. The Swype Global Mastercard has a generous expiration period of 3 years.
A: Yes, if it’s enabled for international use—like Toasty Card’s Swype Global Mastercard.
A: Many issuers charge activation fees, inactivity fees, and foreign transaction fees. The Swype Global Mastercard from Toasty Card has no fees except a foreign transaction fee and inactivity fee.
A: Most are single-load, but check with the issuer.
A: Yes—digital delivery reduces the risk of loss or theft.
A: Yes, if it’s a digital or compatible physical card.