In 2020, when the pandemic was at its worst, several Kmart customers complained about a little-known Kmart secret they discovered – and that is not being able to use Kmart gift cards to pay for online orders.

While many other retailers let customers pay for their online purchases with gift cards, Kmart has confirmed that this is not an option for them.

When the matter was brought up in 2020, a representative for the retail giant addressed it and stated that the company was 'exploring options' when it comes to online payment using gift cards.

'We don't have the ability to accept gift cards online at the moment, but we do understand that this is a unique situation and an uncertain time for everyone,' said the spokesperson.

'It seems that changing the functionality of our website would take some time, so it may not be something we can turn around in the coming weeks.'

Customers can't pay for online orders with Kmart gift cards. Credit: Facebook.​

Two years later, despite the store's launch of its extensive 'Online Exclusives' range, it appears that the promise has not yet been followed through and gift cards are still not recognised as a form of online payment.

Even though Kmart gift cards can be purchased on the retail store's official website, you can't use them to make online purchases because they're not accepted as a valid method of payment.

As a result, you couldn't use your gift card to buy any of the 346 items (including furniture, toys, and white goods) now available in their 'Online Exclusives' category.

A Kmart representative said on Monday that the company still doesn't offer this feature on its website but promised to get in touch with their customers if that ever changes.

When asked how long it might be before we see this feature implemented, they did not provide a definitive answer.

'Confirming that we do not have this functionality online and that gift cards should be redeemed in-store,' they said.

Gift cards can be used online at many other retailers, including IKEA, JB Hi-Fi, Big W and Target. Credit: Kmart.​

Here's a link to Kmart's gift card terms and conditions so you can read up on the fine print before you buy one for yourself or for a loved one.

Gift cards are a handy method to shop, but it's important to keep in mind that there are certain restrictions associated with them. Keep this in mind before you start browsing their new online range!

We’re disappointed that Kmart hasn’t taken the steps to launch this feature despite two years passing. One day, we hope, Kmart will increase their accessibility and allow shoppers who cannot go in-store to use gift cards online.

What do you think, members? Do you see them fixing this in the future or hoping everyone forgets?

 

[Tervueren]

Coles e-Gift Cards are exactly the same, you have to take them into the store and can not use them for Online Orders! Seems totally ridiculous when Woolworths can organise their e-Gift Cards to be used online, so why Coles can not is beyond me!

 

[Ricci]

Coles obviously want more people in their stores, the chance of impulse purchases must be greater than just buying online. They are all about profit and have very little in the way of Customer Relations.

 

[gordon1940]

Coles obviously want more people in their stores, the chance of impulse purchases must be greater than just buying online. They are all about profit and have very little in the way of Customer Relations.

Exactly! Floor traffic is what they want $ Ching!

 

[TXCharlie]

Oh wow, that's frustrating! I remember a similar issue I had during the pandemic with a prepaid card from my prepaid center. It was supposed to be a breeze to use, but I ran into some hiccups initially. Thankfully, their customer service was really helpful, and I managed to sort things out quickly.

As for Kmart, it's a bummer they don't allow gift cards for online orders. I had a few Kmart gift cards myself and ended up using them in-store for essentials. If you can't use them online, maybe try combining a shopping trip with other errands. Or, if you know someone who shops there regularly, see if they’d want to buy the gift card off you.