American Express Gift Card declined?

Question

I bought a game off of the Steam game thing before with an AMEX gift card. I recently bought a $25 gift card again night of July 31st. I tried buying a game off steam that was worth $24.99 but it has been declining. It looked it up on the website they said it is "pending transaction". or it might be.

is this why i cant buy games off Steam? or use my gift card at all?

Answer 1

Perhaps they adding tax and/or shipping changes that would make it more than $25? Likely the best thing to do is to call AMEX at the 800 number on the card and ask them directly.

Answer 2

You should be able to use your American Express gift card online. However, there are additional steps you need to take to prevent your card from being rejected.

The problem with using American Express (or any other bank issued) gift card online is that there is no verifiable name and address associated with the card. When buying things online, most merchants want your name and billing address to match the name and address you have on file with your card (credit, debit, or bank gift card) issuer.

Therefore, before you use your American Express gift card, call the merchant/financial institution that issued the card or go to their website and add your name and address to the card. This will ensure that when you use the card online, the name and address you provide to the merchant for billing will match the name and address on file for the card. Once you have registered your card, you can use it online just like you would use a regular credit card.

If your information (name and address) has changed since you registered your American Express gift card, call the card issuer or go online and update your information before you use the card online.