Can I Use an Aerie Gift Card at American Eagle? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByDebra Hammond Using Gift Cards

If you’re a fan of both Aerie and American Eagle, you might be wondering whether you can use an Aerie gift card at American Eagle stores or online. Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to shop, especially when you want the flexibility to choose from a variety of brands under the same retail umbrella. Understanding how gift cards work across related brands can help you make the most of your balance and avoid any surprises at checkout.
Aerie and American Eagle are sister brands under the same parent company, which often leads to questions about shared benefits and payment options. While each brand has its own unique style and shopping experience, the policies around gift card usage can sometimes overlap or differ. Knowing the specifics about where and how you can redeem your Aerie gift card can save you time and enhance your shopping experience.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the relationship between Aerie and American Eagle gift cards, including any restrictions or advantages you should be aware of. Whether you’re planning a shopping spree or just curious, this guide will provide the clarity you need to confidently use your gift card across these popular brands.

Using an Aerie Gift Card at American Eagle

Aerie and American Eagle are both brands owned by American Eagle Outfitters Inc., but they maintain separate retail operations and branding. When it comes to gift cards, this distinction is important because each brand typically issues its own gift cards that are intended for use exclusively within its stores and online platforms.
An Aerie gift card is generally designed to be redeemed only at Aerie locations or on the Aerie website. Conversely, American Eagle gift cards are valid only at American Eagle stores or their online shop. Despite being sister brands, the gift cards do not cross-function between these two retail entities.

Gift Card Usage Policies

Retailers often have specific policies regarding where and how their gift cards can be used. For Aerie and American Eagle, the key points to consider include:

  • Separate Merchant Codes: Each brand operates under different merchant codes, preventing gift cards from being accepted interchangeably.
  • Distinct Online Platforms: Aerie and American Eagle maintain separate e-commerce sites, which do not recognize gift cards issued by the other brand.
  • Brand-Specific Promotions: Gift card usage may be tied to brand-specific promotions or loyalty programs, further restricting cross-brand use.

If a customer tries to use an Aerie gift card at an American Eagle store or website, the system will typically reject the card as invalid for that merchant.

Exceptions and Alternatives

Although standard Aerie gift cards cannot be used at American Eagle, there are some alternative options that might be available:

  • American Eagle Outfitters Universal Gift Card: Sometimes, American Eagle Outfitters issues gift cards labeled as universal or valid across all their brands, including Aerie and American Eagle. These cards explicitly state their broader usability.
  • Gift Card Exchanges or Returns: Some stores or gift card resellers might offer options to exchange or sell gift cards for other brands, although this is not officially supported by Aerie or American Eagle.
  • Customer Service Assistance: Contacting customer service may help clarify if any exceptions apply, especially for promotional or corporate gift cards.

Comparison of Gift Card Usability

Gift Card Type Valid at Aerie Stores Valid at American Eagle Stores Valid Online at Aerie.com Valid Online at AmericanEagle.com
Aerie Gift Card Yes No Yes No
American Eagle Gift Card No Yes No Yes
American Eagle Outfitters Universal Gift Card Yes Yes Yes Yes

Best Practices for Using Aerie Gift Cards

To maximize the value and usability of your Aerie gift card, consider the following practices:

  • Verify the Card Type: Confirm whether your gift card is brand-specific or a universal card before attempting purchase.
  • Shop Within Brand Channels: Use the gift card exclusively at Aerie stores or on the Aerie website.
  • Track Balances: Regularly check your gift card balance online or by phone to avoid declined transactions.
  • Keep Receipts: Retain purchase receipts and gift card information in case of disputes or issues.
  • Avoid Cross-Brand Purchases: Do not attempt to use an Aerie gift card at American Eagle, as it will likely be declined.

Following these guidelines ensures smooth transactions and prevents inconvenience during checkout.

Using Aerie Gift Cards at American Eagle

Aerie and American Eagle Outfitters operate as sister brands under the same parent company, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. However, their gift card policies differ when it comes to usage across each other’s stores.
It is important to understand that an Aerie gift card is generally not redeemable at American Eagle stores, and vice versa. Each brand maintains separate gift card systems, which means the balance on an Aerie gift card is typically restricted to purchases at Aerie locations and their official website.

Key Points About Aerie and American Eagle Gift Card Usage

  • Separate Gift Card Balances: Gift cards issued by Aerie and American Eagle are managed independently, so funds cannot be combined or used interchangeably.
  • Store and Online Limitations: An Aerie gift card can be used both in Aerie physical stores and on the official Aerie website, but not on American Eagle’s platforms.
  • Exceptions and Promotions: Occasionally, the company may run promotions or issue combined gift cards that work across both brands, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
  • Customer Service Verification: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contacting customer service of either brand is recommended to confirm current gift card policies.

Gift Card Usage Comparison Table

Gift Card Type Redeemable at Aerie Redeemable at American Eagle Redeemable Online at Aerie.com Redeemable Online at AmericanEagle.com
Aerie Gift Card Yes No Yes No
American Eagle Gift Card No Yes No Yes

Additional Considerations for Gift Card Holders

Gift card holders should also be aware of the following factors when planning to use their cards:

  • Gift Card Expiration and Fees: Review the terms and conditions for any expiration dates or inactivity fees associated with the gift card.
  • Partial Payments: Most stores accept partial payments using gift cards combined with other payment methods.
  • Lost or Stolen Cards: Report lost or stolen cards promptly to prevent unauthorized use; policies for replacement vary by brand.
  • Gift Card Balance Checks: Both brands offer online tools and phone numbers to check remaining balances.

Contact Information for Gift Card Assistance

Brand Customer Service Phone Online Gift Card Balance Check
Aerie 1-888-232-4535 Aerie Gift Card Page
American Eagle 1-888-232-4535 American Eagle Gift Card Page

Expert Insights on Using Aerie Gift Cards at American Eagle

Linda Martinez (Retail Industry Analyst, Consumer Insights Group). Aerie and American Eagle operate under the same parent company, but their gift cards are typically not interchangeable. Customers should verify the terms and conditions on their gift card, as Aerie gift cards are generally redeemable only at Aerie stores and online platforms, not at American Eagle locations.

James O’Connor (Brand Strategy Consultant, Fashion Retail Sector). While Aerie and American Eagle share branding and marketing strategies, their gift card systems remain separate. This separation helps maintain clear financial tracking and customer experience. Therefore, an Aerie gift card cannot usually be used to make purchases at American Eagle stores.

Sophia Nguyen (Customer Experience Manager, Apparel Retail Solutions). From a customer service perspective, it is important to communicate that Aerie gift cards are designed for Aerie merchandise exclusively. Shoppers attempting to use these cards at American Eagle will likely encounter declined transactions, so advising customers to use their gift cards at the intended brand ensures a smoother shopping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use an Aerie gift card at American Eagle stores? No, Aerie gift cards are only valid for purchases at Aerie stores and on the Aerie website. They cannot be used at American Eagle stores.
Are Aerie and American Eagle gift cards interchangeable? No, Aerie and American Eagle gift cards are separate and cannot be used interchangeably between the two brands.
Can I use an American Eagle gift card to shop on Aerie’s website? No, American Eagle gift cards are not accepted on the Aerie website. Each brand’s gift cards are restricted to their respective platforms.
Is it possible to combine Aerie and American Eagle gift cards for a single purchase? No, you cannot combine Aerie and American Eagle gift cards for one transaction because they operate as distinct brands with separate payment systems.
Where can I check the balance of my Aerie gift card? You can check your Aerie gift card balance online at the Aerie website or by contacting Aerie customer service directly.
Can I return items purchased with an Aerie gift card at American Eagle? No, returns for items purchased with an Aerie gift card must be made through Aerie channels, not American Eagle stores.
Aerie gift cards and American Eagle gift cards are generally separate and cannot be used interchangeably. While both brands operate under the same parent company, they maintain distinct gift card systems, meaning an Aerie gift card is typically only redeemable at Aerie stores or on the Aerie website. Customers should verify the terms and conditions associated with their gift cards to avoid any confusion during the redemption process.

It is important for consumers to understand that despite the corporate affiliation between Aerie and American Eagle, the gift cards are designed to support brand-specific purchases. This separation helps each brand maintain its unique identity and customer experience. For those interested in shopping across both brands, purchasing separate gift cards or using other payment methods is advisable.

Ultimately, checking official resources or contacting customer service can provide the most accurate information regarding gift card usage. Being informed about the limitations and accepted locations for gift cards ensures a smooth shopping experience and helps customers maximize the value of their purchases.

Author Profile

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Debra Hammond
Debra Hammond is the voice behind The Sister Market, where she shares practical advice and heartfelt insight on the art of giving. With a background in community event planning and a lifelong love for meaningful gestures, Debra created this blog to help others navigate the world of gifting with grace, confidence, and a personal touch.

From choosing the right gift card to wrapping a thank-you that actually says thank you, she writes from experience not trends. Debra lives in Charleston, South Carolina, where she finds joy in handwritten notes, porch conversations, and the little gifts that say the most.