Apple gift card and family sharing

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Level 2

479 points

Apple gift card and family sharing

I have had a balance from Apple Gift Cards on my account for a few months. Recently I joined Family Sharing (my wife is the organizer) and it is on her debit card for purchases. Today I tried using my gift card balance at the iTunes store to purchase some music. However, it will not let me have the option of using my gift card balance - it says I have to go with the debit card on file.

I should add that under the account where it is asking me for the security code to verify the debit card, above it it does show the gift card balance - it simply will not allow me to select that option.

Any suggestions?

Posted on Jul 14, 2023 11:43 AM

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Answer 1

Jul 14, 2023 11:48 AM in response to gsyrba

What exactly does it say? People sometimes misinterpret what it says.

This document outlines what you can buy with your Apple ID [Apple Account] balance --> What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance - Apple Support

"Some purchases might require that you have a credit card on file, even if you use your Apple Account balance to make the purchase."

"Where the Apple Gift Card is available, you can use your Apple ID balance to buy products and accessories at apple.com or in the Apple Store app."

How apps, content, and subscriptions from Apple are billed - Apple Support

Some purchases aren’t charged to your Apple Account balance

- If you're in a Family Sharing group, purchases that you make are charged to your personal Apple Account balance. If you don't have enough Apple Account balance to pay for the purchase, the remainder is charged to the family organizer if purchase sharing is turned on.

- You can’t use your Apple Account balance to buy gifts or gift cards.

- Some subscriptions might not be charged to your Apple Account balance.

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Answer 2

Jul 14, 2023 12:09 PM in response to gsyrba

Sounds like it should work, but if it isn't, ask Apple: Choose your country or region - Official Apple Support

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Answer 3

gsyrba Author

Level 2

479 points

Jul 14, 2023 11:57 AM in response to Limnos

Maybe I am reading this wrong. Here is what it says...

Manage Payments

To continue on this device, verify at least one payment method.

Then it shows the balance on my gift card, and then the debit card below it.

Also, the Apple Account Balance I want to use to purchase music... exactly the same as I have been doing for years. Nothing new on this that I am missing, or not allowed to buy. The ONLY thing different since I purchased music a few months ago is the Family Sharing.

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Apple gift card and family sharing

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