How to Send a Starbucks Gift Card via Text (2026)

Sending a Starbucks gift card via text message is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to brighten someone’s day. Whether it is a birthday, a thank-you gesture, or simply a random act of kindness, a digital Starbucks gift card can reach the recipient’s phone in seconds. This guide covers every method available in 2026 for sending a Starbucks gift card through text, along with detailed step-by-step instructions, denomination options, customization features, redemption guidance, and troubleshooting tips.

Overview of Methods for Sending Starbucks Gift Cards via Text

There are several reliable methods for sending a Starbucks gift card through text message or a text-like digital delivery. Each method has its own advantages depending on the sender’s device, preferred platform, and desired level of customization. The primary methods are as follows:

• Starbucks App (iOS and Android) — The official method, offering the widest selection of designs and direct integration with Starbucks Rewards.
• Starbucks.com — The web-based alternative that delivers eGift cards via text message or email.
• Apple iMessage (iOS only) — A built-in integration that allows sending Starbucks eGift cards directly within the Messages app.
• Third-Party Platforms — Services such as GiftCards.com, Gyft, and Amazon that sell Starbucks eGift cards with text delivery options.

Method 1: Sending via the Starbucks App

The Starbucks mobile app is the most straightforward way to send a digital gift card via text. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices and provides full access to seasonal designs, personalized messages, and flexible denomination choices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Starbucks app on your smartphone. If you do not have the app installed, download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and create a free account.
2. Navigate to the “Gift” section. On the home screen, tap the “Gift” tab located in the bottom navigation bar. On some versions of the app, this may appear under “Cards” or through a dedicated “Send an eGift” button.
3. Browse and select a card design. Starbucks offers dozens of designs organized by occasion, including birthdays, holidays, congratulations, thank-you cards, and general appreciation. Seasonal designs rotate throughout the year.
4. Choose a denomination. Select a preset amount ($5, $10, $15, $20, $25, $50, $75, or $100) or enter a custom amount within the allowed range. The minimum is $5 and the maximum is $100 per card.
5. Add a personal message. Write a short message to accompany the gift card. The character limit is typically around 250 characters.
6. Select “Text Message” as the delivery method. When prompted for delivery, choose the text message (SMS) option rather than email. Enter the recipient’s mobile phone number.
7. Enter your payment information. Pay using a credit card, debit card, or your existing Starbucks card balance. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted.
8. Review and send. Confirm the details — card design, amount, recipient number, and message — then tap “Send.” The recipient will receive a text message containing a link to claim the eGift card.

The entire process typically takes less than two minutes. The recipient receives the text message almost immediately, though occasional carrier delays of a few minutes are normal.

Method 2: Sending via Starbucks.com

For those who prefer using a desktop browser or do not have the Starbucks app installed, the Starbucks website provides a fully functional eGift card sending experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Visit starbucks.com/gift in any web browser.
2. Select “Send an eGift” from the available options on the gift card page.
3. Choose a card design from the available categories. The website offers the same design library as the mobile app.
4. Set the gift card amount. Choose from the standard denominations ($5 to $100) or type in a custom value.
5. Enter the recipient’s information. Provide the recipient’s name, your name, and select text message delivery. Input the recipient’s phone number.
6. Write a personal message to accompany the gift card.
7. Optionally schedule the delivery. The website allows you to send the card immediately or schedule it for a specific date, which is useful for birthdays and holidays.
8. Complete the purchase by entering your payment details and confirming the order.

A confirmation email is sent to the sender, and the recipient receives a text message with a link to view and claim the eGift card.

Method 3: Sending via Apple iMessage

Apple users have a particularly seamless option: the Starbucks iMessage integration. This feature allows iPhone and iPad users to purchase and send a Starbucks eGift card without leaving the Messages app.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad and start a conversation with the intended recipient.
2. Tap the Apps button (the “A” icon or the app drawer icon) next to the text input field.
3. Locate the Starbucks app in the iMessage app drawer. If it does not appear, you may need to download the Starbucks app from the App Store first, as the iMessage extension is included with the main app.
4. Select a card design and amount. The iMessage extension offers a curated selection of designs and the standard denomination range.
5. Add a personal message if desired.
6. Confirm payment using Apple Pay (the default and most convenient option) or another stored payment method.
7. Send the message. The eGift card appears as a rich media card directly within the iMessage conversation. The recipient can tap on it to claim the gift.

This method is limited to conversations between Apple devices using iMessage (blue bubbles). If the recipient is using an Android device, the rich card format will not render properly, and it is better to use one of the other methods described in this guide.

Method 4: Sending via Third-Party Platforms

Several third-party services sell Starbucks eGift cards and offer text message delivery. These platforms can be useful if you want to combine gift cards from multiple retailers, take advantage of promotional discounts, or use a payment method not accepted directly by Starbucks.

GiftCards.com

1. Visit GiftCards.com and search for “Starbucks” in the gift card catalog.
2. Select the Starbucks eGift card option.
3. Choose a denomination (typically $5 to $100).
4. Select text message delivery and enter the recipient’s phone number.
5. Add a personal message and complete the purchase.

Gyft

1. Download the Gyft app or visit Gyft.com.
2. Search for Starbucks in the retailer list.
3. Select the desired amount and choose text or email delivery.
4. Enter the recipient’s phone number and personal message.
5. Pay and send the gift card.

Amazon

Amazon sells Starbucks eGift cards that can be delivered via email. While Amazon does not offer direct SMS delivery, the sender can email the eGift card to the recipient’s email address, or email it to themselves and then forward the gift card code via text message manually. This adds an extra step but may be convenient for those who already have Amazon payment methods on file.

Denominations and Pricing

Starbucks eGift cards are available in a flexible range of denominations. Understanding the options helps in selecting an appropriate amount for the occasion.

Denomination	Best Suited For
$5	A single drink; casual gesture of appreciation
$10	A drink and a pastry; small thank-you gift
$15	Two drinks or one drink with food; co-worker appreciation
$20	Multiple visits; birthday gift for a casual acquaintance
$25	Popular all-purpose amount; holiday or birthday standard
$50	Generous gift; covers many visits or a group order
$75	Premium gift; ideal for close friends or family members
$100	Maximum single-card amount; significant milestone or special occasion

Custom amounts between $5 and $100 are also available when purchasing through the Starbucks app or website. Third-party platforms may have slightly different minimum and maximum thresholds depending on the retailer.

Customization Options

Digital Starbucks gift cards offer several layers of customization that make them feel personal despite being delivered electronically.

Card Designs

Starbucks maintains a rotating library of card designs organized by theme. Categories typically include:

• Seasonal: Spring, summer, fall, and winter designs that reflect the current time of year.
• Holidays: Christmas, Hanukkah, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and other major holidays.
• Occasions: Birthday, congratulations, graduation, thank you, and get well.
• Everyday: General appreciation, friendship, and classic Starbucks branding.

Personal Messages

Every eGift card allows the sender to include a personal text message. While the character limit is modest (approximately 250 characters through the Starbucks app), it is sufficient for a heartfelt note. Writing a specific, genuine message significantly increases the impact of the gift compared to leaving the message field blank.

Scheduled Delivery

Both the Starbucks app and website allow senders to schedule eGift card delivery for a future date. This is particularly useful for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. The gift card will be sent via text message at the scheduled time, ensuring the recipient receives it on the intended day.

How Recipients Redeem a Starbucks eGift Card

Understanding the redemption process is useful both for recipients and for senders who want to explain the process to less tech-savvy gift recipients.

Redemption Steps

1. Open the text message containing the eGift card notification.
2. Tap the link in the message. This opens a web page or the Starbucks app (if installed) displaying the gift card details, including the card number, amount, and any personal message.
3. Add the card to the Starbucks app (recommended). Tap “Add to Starbucks” or “Add to Card” to load the balance onto an existing Starbucks account. This allows the recipient to pay using the app at any Starbucks location and earn Starbucks Rewards Stars on the purchase.
4. Alternatively, use the card number directly. The recipient can provide the eGift card number and PIN to the barista at the register for manual entry. This method does not require the Starbucks app or a Starbucks account.
5. Use for mobile orders. Once added to the Starbucks app, the gift card balance can be used for mobile orders placed through the app for pickup or delivery.

Gift card balances do not expire, and there are no maintenance fees. Any unused balance remains on the card indefinitely until it is spent.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While sending a Starbucks eGift card via text is generally a smooth process, several common issues can arise. Below are solutions to the most frequently encountered problems.

The Recipient Did Not Receive the Text Message

If the recipient reports that they did not receive the eGift card text, consider the following steps:

• Verify the phone number. Double-check that the correct number was entered. Even a single wrong digit will route the message to the wrong person or cause delivery failure.
• Check the spam or blocked messages folder. Some phones automatically filter messages from unknown senders or short codes into a separate folder.
• Wait 15 to 30 minutes. Carrier delays occasionally slow down SMS delivery, particularly during peak hours or holidays.
• Resend from your Starbucks account. Log in to your Starbucks account (app or website), navigate to your gift history or order history, and resend the eGift card to the same or a corrected phone number.
• Contact Starbucks Customer Support. If the issue persists, reach out to Starbucks support at 1-800-782-7282 or through the app’s help section.

The eGift Card Link Is Not Working

If the recipient taps the link and it does not load properly:

• Ensure the phone has an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
• Try opening the link in a different browser.
• Clear the browser cache and try again.
• If the Starbucks app is installed, try opening the link directly in the app.

Payment Was Charged but the Card Was Not Sent

In rare cases, a payment may process without the eGift card being delivered. Check your email for a purchase confirmation from Starbucks. If you received a confirmation, the card was created and can likely be resent from your account. If no confirmation was received, check your bank statement to confirm the charge. Contact Starbucks Customer Support with your transaction details for resolution.

The Recipient Cannot Add the Card to Their App

If the recipient has difficulty adding the eGift card to the Starbucks app, they should ensure the app is updated to the latest version. Logging out and back in can also resolve syncing issues. As a fallback, the card number and PIN displayed on the eGift card web page can always be entered manually in the app under “Add a Starbucks Card” by selecting “Enter card number manually.”

Tips for Sending Starbucks Gift Cards via Text

Following a few best practices ensures the gift is well-received and makes the most impact.

Timing Matters

Send the eGift card at a time when the recipient is likely to check their phone and appreciate the gesture. Morning delivery works well because the recipient can use the card for their first coffee of the day. Avoid sending late at night, as the notification may be lost among other messages by morning. For birthdays and holidays, use the scheduled delivery feature to ensure the card arrives at the right moment.

Personalize the Message

A generic or blank message reduces the personal touch of the gift. Take a moment to write something specific. Reference a shared memory, an inside joke, or the specific reason for the gift. Even a short message like “Enjoy your morning latte — you earned it after this week” is more meaningful than no message at all.

Match the Amount to the Occasion

A $5 card is a perfectly appropriate casual gesture for a colleague or acquaintance, while a $25 or $50 card is more suitable for a birthday or holiday gift. Sending an amount that feels proportionate to the relationship and occasion demonstrates thoughtfulness.

Confirm the Recipient’s Phone Number

Before sending, verify that you have the recipient’s current phone number. If you are unsure, it is better to send via email as a backup, since email addresses tend to change less frequently than phone numbers.

Follow Up

If the gift card is for a significant occasion, consider sending a brief follow-up text letting the recipient know that a Starbucks gift is on its way. This prevents the automated text message from being overlooked or dismissed as spam.

Physical vs. Digital Starbucks Gift Cards: A Comparison

Both physical and digital Starbucks gift cards have their place. The right choice depends on the context, the recipient’s preferences, and the occasion.

Feature	Physical Gift Card	Digital eGift Card (Text)
Delivery Speed	Requires in-person handoff or postal mail (days)	Instant or scheduled delivery (seconds)
Customization	Limited to in-store designs; no personal message attached	Dozens of digital designs; personal message included
Convenience	Requires a trip to a Starbucks store or retailer	Purchased from anywhere with an internet connection
Presentation	Tangible; can be wrapped or placed in a greeting card	Digital; no physical component
Environmental Impact	Plastic card and packaging	No physical waste
Risk of Loss	Can be physically lost or damaged	Stored digitally; can be re-accessed through account
Denominations	$5 to $100 (varies by retailer)	$5 to $100 with custom amounts
Redemption	Swipe or scan at register; can be added to app	Tap link, add to app, or read card number to barista
Best For	In-person gifts, stocking stuffers, gift baskets	Last-minute gifts, long-distance recipients, remote teams

Digital eGift cards sent via text are the superior choice for time-sensitive occasions, long-distance giving, and environmentally conscious senders. Physical cards remain ideal for in-person events where a tangible gift adds to the experience, such as holiday gift exchanges or hand-delivered birthday presents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send a Starbucks gift card via text to someone in another country?

Starbucks eGift cards purchased through the U.S. Starbucks app or website are generally valid only at U.S. Starbucks locations. If the recipient is in another country, they may not be able to redeem the card at their local Starbucks. Check the Starbucks website for the recipient’s country to determine if separate regional eGift card programs exist.

Do Starbucks eGift cards expire?

No. Starbucks gift card balances do not expire. There are no dormancy fees or service charges that reduce the balance over time. The full value remains available until spent.

Can I cancel or refund a Starbucks eGift card after sending it?

Once an eGift card has been sent and claimed by the recipient, it generally cannot be refunded. If the card has not yet been claimed, you may be able to cancel the order by contacting Starbucks Customer Support promptly. Policies may vary, so it is advisable to act quickly if cancellation is needed.

Can the recipient transfer the gift card balance to a different Starbucks card?

Yes. The recipient can transfer the eGift card balance to an existing Starbucks card through the app by navigating to their card management settings. This consolidates balances and simplifies payment at the register.

Is it safe to send Starbucks gift cards via text?

Yes, sending Starbucks eGift cards via text through official channels (the Starbucks app, Starbucks.com, or authorized third-party platforms) is secure. The gift card link uses encrypted connections, and the card cannot be redeemed without accessing the link. However, senders should be cautious about entering correct phone numbers to avoid sending the gift to unintended recipients.

Final Assessment

Sending a Starbucks gift card via text message is a fast, flexible, and thoughtful way to give the gift of coffee in 2026. The Starbucks app remains the most feature-rich option, offering the widest selection of designs, custom denominations from $5 to $100, personal messages, and scheduled delivery. The Starbucks website provides an equally capable browser-based alternative. Apple iMessage integration adds convenience for iOS users communicating with other Apple device owners. Third-party platforms like GiftCards.com and Gyft serve as reliable alternatives, particularly when combined with promotional offers or alternative payment methods.

Regardless of the method chosen, the process is simple: select a design, choose an amount, write a personal message, enter the recipient’s phone number, and complete the purchase. The recipient receives the gift almost instantly and can redeem it at any Starbucks location or through the app for mobile orders. With no expiration dates, no fees, and a straightforward redemption process, a Starbucks eGift card sent via text is one of the most practical and universally appreciated digital gifts available today.

For the best experience, use the official Starbucks app, personalize the message, time the delivery thoughtfully, and confirm the recipient’s phone number before sending. These small details transform a simple gift card into a gesture that feels personal and intentional.