Check your balance online, by phone, or in store
You can find out how much money is left on a Michaels gift card in three ways: through the Michaels website, by calling their customer service line, or by asking a cashier in any Michaels store. The online method is fastest if you have the card number handy. The phone and in-store options work if you don't have access to a computer or prefer to speak with someone directly.
Michaels does not charge a fee to check your balance, and the process takes just a few minutes no matter which method you choose. You'll need the 16-digit card number printed on the front of the gift card to use any of these methods.
Key Takeaways
- The Michaels website balance checker at michaels.com requires your 16-digit card number and the card's PIN (the last four digits on the back).
- You can call Michaels customer service at 1-800-MICHAELS (1-800-642-4235) and a representative will look up your balance over the phone.
- Walk into any Michaels store and ask a cashier to scan your card or manually enter the number to see the current balance.
- Your balance does not expire as long as there is money remaining on the card, though some states have laws about dormant gift cards.
Using the Michaels website to check balance
Go to michaels.com and look for the "Gift Card Balance" link, usually found in the footer of the page or under the account menu. Click it and you'll see a form asking for two pieces of information: the 16-digit card number on the front of your gift card and the PIN, which is the last four digits printed on the back of the card.
Enter both numbers and click the button to check balance. The website will display your remaining balance immediately. This method works 24 hours a day and does not require you to create an account or log in.
Calling Michaels customer service
Dial 1-800-MICHAELS (1-800-642-4235) and follow the prompts to reach a customer service representative. Have your gift card in front of you when you call. The representative will ask for your 16-digit card number and can look up your balance in their system within seconds.
Customer service hours vary, but Michaels typically operates this line during store hours in your time zone. If you call outside of business hours, you may reach an automated system or be asked to call back later. This method is useful if you prefer speaking to a person or if you have other questions about your card at the same time.
Checking balance in a Michaels store
Bring your gift card to any Michaels location and ask a cashier to check the balance for you. The cashier can scan the card at the register or manually enter the 16-digit number to pull up your balance on their system. This takes less than a minute and requires no phone call or computer access.
This option is convenient if you're already shopping or if you prefer to handle it in person. You don't need to make a purchase to ask a cashier to check your balance.
What happens if your card number is damaged or unreadable
If the card number is worn, faded, or partially scratched off, you may not be able to use the online balance checker. In this case, call customer service or visit a store in person. A representative can sometimes look up your balance using other information, such as the purchase date or the store where the card was originally bought.
If the card is severely damaged and the number cannot be recovered, Michaels may be able to issue a replacement card with the same balance, though this process varies by location and situation. Contact customer service to discuss your options.
Understanding gift card expiration and state laws
Michaels gift cards do not expire as long as there is a balance remaining on them. However, some states have laws that require retailers to turn over unused gift card funds to the state after a certain period of inactivity, typically three to five years. This does not mean you lose the money — it means the state holds it, and you can still claim it.
If you haven't used your card in several years and the balance has disappeared, check your state's unclaimed property website or contact your state's attorney general office. You may be able to recover the funds even after they've been transferred.
Using your balance when you shop
Once you know your balance, you can use the gift card to pay for purchases at any Michaels store or on michaels.com. At checkout in a store, hand the card to the cashier and they'll process it like a credit card. Online, enter the 16-digit card number and PIN in the payment section of your order.
If your purchase is more than the card balance, you can pay the difference with another payment method. If your purchase is less than the balance, the remaining amount stays on the card for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to create a Michaels account to check my gift card balance?
No. The online balance checker does not require an account. You only need the 16-digit card number and the four-digit PIN from the back of the card. Calling customer service or visiting a store also does not require an account.
What if I lost my gift card but remember the number?
If you remember or have written down the 16-digit card number, you can check the balance online or by phone. However, if someone else finds the card, they can also use the number to spend the balance. Contact Michaels customer service immediately if you believe your card has been lost or stolen, and ask if they can freeze the account.
Can I check the balance on a gift card I received as a gift but haven't opened yet?
Yes. The card number is printed on the outside of the packaging, so you can check the balance before opening it. This is useful if you want to confirm the amount before you start shopping.
Why does the website say my card number is invalid?
Make sure you've entered all 16 digits correctly and that the PIN is the last four digits from the back of the card, not a separate code. If you're still getting an error, the card may not have been activated yet, or there may be a technical issue. Call customer service to verify the number and balance.