How to Send a Starbucks Gift Card by Text Message?
by Chelsea Bruhl on Jul 21, 2025

Got a Starbucks fan in your life? Imagine their face lighting up when you treat them to their favorite coffee without even leaving your couch.
I love how easy it is to send someone a Starbucks gift card right in a text message, especially if you use iMessage on your iPhone.
Here’s exactly how I pull it off and everything you’ll want to know before you hit “send.”
How to send a Starbucks gift card by text message
Why Choose a Starbucks Gift Card?
Starbucks isn’t just about coffee, it’s really about the whole experience and their strong brand vibe. The shops, the atmosphere, the baristas, and, of course, the drinks set it apart.
So is a Starbucks gift card even worth it? I think so! Not only do you avoid fumbling for cash or cards, but Starbucks gift cards come with perks like:
- Free refills on select drinks
- Special offers and discounts during happy hour or promo periods
- Flexibility to use at any Starbucks worldwide
With customizable amounts and styles, it’s the quickest way to spread some caffeinated joy.
How Can I Send A Starbucks Gift Card Via iMessage?
Here’s how you can send a Starbucks digital gift card right from your Apple device:
- If it is not already loaded on your iPhone or iPad, go to the App Store and download the Starbucks app.
- Launch the Messages app and start a new discussion or join an existing one. Please keep in mind that a Starbucks gift card cannot be sent in a group text.

- Tap the Applications icon next to the text field after you've opened or begun a text chat with the person to whom you wish to give the gift card. This will bring up the Applications toolbar.

- Select the Starbucks Gifts icon from the toolbar (also known as the app drawer). You might want to scroll until you find the icon. And then tap the symbol.

- Please keep in mind that if you can't find the Starbucks Gifts icon in the app drawer, swipe left and tap the More (three-dot symbol) icon, then tap Edit (in the upper-left corner) and find Starbucks Gifs and make sure it's enabled.

- Starbucks gift cards come in a variety of designs. When you've found the style you desire, choose one. More designs can be found by scrolling up or down. There are numerous styles available, allowing you to select the ideal card for the occasion.

- Choose a monetary value. You can load $5, $10, or $25 and then press the Buy button.

- Then, using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode, authenticate your payment. If you like, you can also leave a comment.
- And you're finished. The gift card will be visible to the receiver within their text messages. The recipient will see the selected Gift card icon with the text "Tap to utilize this card." The Starbucks app will open when the receiver taps this. If she or he does not have the app, pressing will take her or him to the App Store, where she or he can download it.
What Else Should You Know?
Starbucks Gift Card Basics
- Works just like a classic gift card, but digital
- Good at Starbucks' stores, the app, and online
- Cards come in designs for birthdays, thank-you’s, holidays, and more
You can also send Starbucks gift cards directly through the Starbucks app or via their website if you prefer email delivery over text.
How to Send Starbucks Gift Cards using the Starbucks app
- Open the app, tap “Gift”
- Choose a design and amount
- Enter the recipient’s email or phone number and add a note
- Check out, and the card gets emailed (or texted if you select phone number)
How to Send Starbucks Gift Cards using the Website

- Visit the Starbucks gift card page
- Pick a design and amount
- Fill in recipient info and your message
- Pay, and your card is sent!
How to Reload Your Starbucks Gift Card?
Want to add more money? You (or your recipient) can top off the card in the app or online:
Using the App:
Open the app, tap your profile, select “Starbucks Card & Payment,” choose the card, and select “Add Money.”
On the Website:
Go to the gift card page, click “Add or Reload,” and follow the prompts.
What About Android or Non-iPhone Users?
If you send a Starbucks gift card via iMessage to someone with an Android device, they won’t see it in their regular texts. Instead, they’ll get a secure link to redeem the gift card online, a workaround, but it still works!
On Android devices, you can also send gift cards directly in the Starbucks app. Just tap “Pay,” then “Send,” and follow the prompts.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can I email a Starbucks gift card?
Yes, choose email delivery in the app or online.
Can you transfer a Starbucks card?
You can move $5 or more from one card to another through the app or at a participating Starbucks store.
Can Starbucks cards be refilled?
Yes! The recipient can add money once the card is registered to their account.
Is there an expiration date?
No, your Starbucks gift card or eGift balance doesn’t expire, and Starbucks doesn’t charge inactivity fees.
How to send a Starbucks gift card by text message - Conclusion
I always find sending a Starbucks eGift card is the fastest, most delightful way to treat someone or even myself to some coffee happiness.
It’s cashless, personalizable, and instantly delivered. Plus, you can use these at any hour, even when you’re craving a latte after store hours.
So, next time you want to make someone’s day (or just say thanks), give this digital gifting a try, you’ll both enjoy the buzz.