Amazon is one of the largest online marketplaces, but many users are often confused about payment methods, especially when trying to use more than one card for a single purchase. Amazon does not allow splitting payments between two credit or debit cards, but you can combine an Amazon gift card with a card. This method allows you to split a payment if you plan ahead. In this guide, we’ll explain the available payment combinations, step-by-step methods, and practical workarounds you can use to manage your payments on Amazon easily.
Can You Split Payments on Amazon?
The simple answer is no, Amazon does not allow you to split a single payment between two different credit or debit cards. However, you can use an Amazon gift card and a credit or debit card together. This provides a flexible payment option if you have funds across multiple accounts.
Amazon’s system prioritizes gift cards, meaning gift card balances apply first, followed by your credit or debit card. If the total order exceeds your gift card amount, the remaining balance can be covered with your card.
Here’s how it works:
- If you add a $50 gift card to your Amazon balance and your order is $100, Amazon will apply the $50 gift card first.
- The remaining $50 will be charged to your selected credit or debit card.
This method provides a simple workaround when you need to use multiple sources for a single purchase.
Amazon Payment Methods You Can Use Together
Amazon offers several payment combinations, although they are limited. Understanding which methods can be combined helps avoid confusion during checkout.
Allowed Combinations
- Amazon Gift Card + Credit/Debit Card: Apply the gift card balance first, then cover the rest with a card.
- Amazon Gift Card + Store Credit: Gift card balances and promotional balances can work together.
- Amazon Gift Card + Promotional Credits: Promotional credits apply automatically alongside a gift card.
Disallowed Combinations
- Two Credit Cards: Amazon does not support splitting payments between two credit cards.
- Two Debit Cards: Only one debit card is allowed per order.
- Credit Card + Debit Card: A combination of these two cards is also not possible.
Amazon’s system ensures simple transactions by limiting these combinations, but the gift card workaround remains an effective solution.
How to Split Payments on Amazon Using Gift Cards
Since Amazon allows gift cards alongside cards, this method becomes a practical way to split payments across multiple sources.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Buy Amazon Gift Cards
Purchase Amazon eGift Cards using any payment method that suits you, whether it’s another credit card, debit card, or even a third-party digital wallet. You can buy gift cards in various denominations to match your needs.
2. Apply the Gift Cards to Your Account
Log in to your Amazon account and navigate to the Gift Card Balance section. Click Redeem Gift Card and enter the code from the gift card email or physical card.
3. Place Your Order
Once the gift card balance reflects in your account, proceed to checkout. Amazon will apply the gift card amount first, then ask for a payment method to cover the remaining amount.
4. Complete the Purchase
Add your credit or debit card details if necessary and confirm the order. Amazon will automatically handle the payment split between the gift card and the card.
Pro Tip: If you need to split payments across three or more sources, buy multiple gift cards and add them to your account before making the purchase.
Amazon Payment Plans: How Do They Work?
Amazon provides several options for users looking to split payments into smaller amounts over time. These plans help when you need flexible payments but cannot split payments directly between two cards.
1. Amazon Monthly Payments
Amazon offers monthly payments for select products, including electronics and appliances.
- Eligibility: Available for eligible accounts with a history of reliable payments.
- Payment Breakdown: Payments are divided into 5 equal monthly installments.
- Automatic Deductions: The installments are automatically deducted from the same card used for the initial payment.
2. Buy Now, Pay Later with Affirm
Amazon has partnered with Affirm to offer payment plans for larger purchases.
- Installment Options: Choose from 3, 6, or 12-month plans.
- Eligibility Check: Affirm performs a soft credit check that doesn’t impact your credit score.
- Interest Rates: Interest depends on the plan, but some offers may include 0% APR.
Important Note: Not all items qualify for monthly payments, so check eligibility when browsing.
Practical Workarounds for Splitting Payments on Amazon
If you need to use multiple payment methods but don’t have gift cards, consider these workarounds:
1. Purchase Amazon Gift Cards with Different Cards
You can buy multiple Amazon eGift cards using different payment methods. Apply all these gift cards to your account, then place the order. This method essentially splits the payment indirectly across multiple cards.
2. Use Prepaid Debit Cards
Prepaid debit cards can be purchased with various funding sources. Add these funds to Amazon as gift cards or use them directly at checkout.
3. Third-Party Services for Virtual Cards
Some services, like PayPal Key (when available), allow you to link multiple payment sources under a single virtual card. You can then use this virtual card on Amazon for purchases.
4. Use Multiple Accounts for Separate Orders
If you want to split payments for multiple items, consider splitting the items across two or more Amazon orders using different cards.
Troubleshooting Common Payment Issues on Amazon
When trying to split payments or use gift cards, customers sometimes encounter issues. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide:
1. Gift Card Not Applying
- Double-check the code and try again.
- Ensure the card was activated if bought from a third party.
- Contact Amazon Customer Support if the balance doesn’t appear.
2. Payment Method Declined
- Verify that your card has sufficient funds.
- Check that the billing address matches the one registered with the bank.
- Update your card details and retry the payment.
3. Monthly Payments Not Available
- Confirm if the product qualifies for monthly payment plans.
- Ensure your account has a positive payment history.
- Amazon may restrict monthly payments for accounts with missed payments.
Conclusion
While Amazon doesn’t allow splitting payments directly across multiple cards, you can combine an Amazon gift card with a credit or debit card. Additionally, options like Amazon monthly payments and Affirm installment plans provide flexible alternatives. If you need to use more than one card, consider purchasing Amazon gift cards using different cards to achieve your goal.
Have you tried splitting payments on Amazon before? Share your experience in the comments or pass this guide along to someone who might find it useful!