What Can I Buy With a CVS Select Gift Card?

AvatarByNicole Eder Buying Gift Cards

If you’ve recently received a CVS Select Gift Card or are considering purchasing one, you might be wondering exactly what you can buy with it. Gift cards offer a convenient and flexible way to shop, but understanding their scope and limitations can help you make the most of your balance. Whether you’re looking to stock up on essentials, indulge in personal care items, or explore other offerings, knowing where and how you can use your CVS Select Gift Card is key.

CVS is a well-known retail pharmacy chain that provides a wide range of products, from health and wellness to beauty and everyday household items. The CVS Select Gift Card is designed to give recipients easy access to these products, but it’s important to grasp the types of purchases it supports and any restrictions that may apply. This knowledge ensures you can plan your shopping effectively and maximize the value of your gift card.

In the sections that follow, we’ll delve into the various ways you can use your CVS Select Gift Card, highlighting the categories of products available and tips for seamless transactions. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned shopper, this guide will help you navigate your options with confidence and clarity.

Eligible Purchases with CVS Select Gift Card

A CVS Select Gift Card can be used to purchase a wide range of products available at CVS Pharmacy stores and on the CVS website. These gift cards are designed to provide flexibility for the recipient, allowing them to choose from numerous categories that CVS offers. It is important to note that while the card covers many items, it may not be valid for certain restricted products or services.

The types of products typically available for purchase using a CVS Select Gift Card include:

  • Health and Wellness Products: Over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, first aid supplies, and personal care items.
  • Beauty and Personal Care: Skincare products, cosmetics, haircare items, grooming tools, and fragrances.
  • Household Essentials: Cleaning supplies, paper goods, and other everyday necessities.
  • Food and Snacks: Packaged snacks, beverages, and some refrigerated items.
  • Seasonal and Gift Items: Holiday-themed merchandise, greeting cards, and small gift items.
  • Photo Services: Printing photos, creating photo books, and other personalized photo products.
  • Pharmacy Co-Pays: In many cases, the gift card can be used to pay for prescription co-pays at the pharmacy counter.

However, some restrictions apply. The CVS Select Gift Card generally cannot be used for:

  • Tobacco products
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Lottery tickets
  • Money orders or prepaid cards
  • Bill payments or deposits

Using the CVS Select Gift Card Online and In-Store

The CVS Select Gift Card is versatile in terms of where it can be redeemed. Users can shop both in physical CVS Pharmacy locations and online through CVS.com. This convenience allows the gift card holder to select from the full inventory CVS offers in whichever format they prefer.

When shopping in-store, the card functions like a prepaid debit card. At checkout, simply present the card to the cashier, who will swipe or scan it to apply the available balance toward the purchase total. If the purchase exceeds the balance on the card, customers can pay the remaining amount using another payment method.

For online purchases, the gift card can be applied during the payment process. The card number and PIN (if applicable) need to be entered at checkout as a payment method. The system will deduct the purchase amount from the gift card balance. If the order total is greater than the card value, an additional payment method must be provided.

Sample Product Categories and Price Ranges

Below is a table illustrating common product categories available for purchase with the CVS Select Gift Card, along with typical price ranges to give an idea of what the card can cover:

Product Category Examples Typical Price Range Gift Card Usage Notes
Health & Wellness Vitamins, Pain Relievers, First Aid Kits $5 – $50 Fully eligible for purchase
Beauty & Personal Care Makeup, Skincare, Haircare Products $3 – $100 Includes most branded products
Household Essentials Cleaning Supplies, Paper Towels, Soap $2 – $40 Eligible except for restricted items
Food & Snacks Chips, Candy, Beverages $1 – $20 Non-perishable and some refrigerated items
Photo Services Photo Prints, Photo Books $5 – $75 Can be used for photo order payments
Pharmacy Co-Pays Prescription Medication Co-Payments Varies Accepted at pharmacy counter

Tips for Maximizing the Value of Your CVS Select Gift Card

To get the most out of a CVS Select Gift Card, consider these expert tips:

  • Check Expiration Dates: Some gift cards may have expiration dates or fees after a certain period. Always verify terms to avoid losing value.
  • Combine Purchases: Use the card for multiple smaller purchases rather than one large purchase if you want to stretch the balance across various needs.
  • Use for Health Essentials: Since CVS is a trusted pharmacy, consider using the gift card for over-the-counter medications and health supplies, which can be costly.
  • Leverage Online Promotions: CVS often runs discounts and promotions online. Using the gift card during these sales can increase purchasing power.
  • Keep Track of Balance: Regularly check your card balance either online or by calling customer service to avoid declined transactions.
  • Avoid Restricted Items: Be aware of items the card cannot purchase to prevent inconvenience at checkout.

By understanding the scope of eligible products and how to effectively use the CVS Select Gift Card, recipients can enjoy a seamless shopping experience while making the most of their gift card value.

Eligible Purchases with a CVS Select Gift Card

A CVS Select Gift Card functions much like cash within CVS Pharmacy stores and on CVS.com, allowing you to purchase a wide variety of products and services. The card is designed to provide flexibility and convenience, making it suitable for a broad range of transactions.

Here are the main categories of items and services you can typically buy using a CVS Select Gift Card:

  • Pharmacy Products and Prescriptions: You can use the gift card to pay for prescription medications and over-the-counter pharmacy products.
  • Health and Wellness Items: Includes vitamins, supplements, first aid supplies, and personal care products.
  • Beauty and Personal Care Products: Makeup, skincare, hair care products, and grooming essentials can be purchased with the card.
  • Household and Everyday Essentials: Cleaning supplies, paper products, batteries, and other daily necessities.
  • Food and Snacks: Convenience foods, beverages, and snacks available in CVS stores are eligible.
  • Seasonal and Gift Items: Holiday merchandise, greeting cards, and small gift items can be bought.
  • Photo Services: Payment for photo printing and related services offered by CVS Photo.

It is important to note that the CVS Select Gift Card cannot be used for certain purchases, such as money orders, lottery tickets, or alcohol in some states, depending on local regulations.

Using a CVS Select Gift Card for Online Purchases

The CVS Select Gift Card can also be used to shop on CVS.com, which expands your purchasing options. When shopping online, the card acts as a payment method during checkout, similar to a credit or debit card.

Online Purchase Category Details
Pharmacy Refills Refill prescriptions and pay for medications online using the gift card.
Health & Beauty Products Order vitamins, skincare, makeup, and grooming products with the card.
Household Essentials Purchase cleaning supplies, paper goods, and other everyday items.
Photo Products Pay for photo prints, custom photo gifts, and related services.

Keep in mind that when paying online, if the total order amount exceeds the gift card balance, you can typically combine payment methods by using the CVS Select Gift Card first and then paying the remaining balance with another form of payment.

Limitations and Restrictions of CVS Select Gift Card Usage

While the CVS Select Gift Card offers broad usability, some limitations apply to ensure compliance with company policies and legal regulations:

  • Non-Eligible Purchases: Cannot be used to purchase money orders, lottery tickets, prepaid cards, or gift cards for other retailers.
  • Alcohol and Tobacco Products: These may not be purchasable with the gift card depending on state laws and CVS store policies.
  • Returns and Refunds: Items purchased with a CVS Select Gift Card are generally eligible for return, but refunds may be issued as store credit or back to the gift card balance rather than cash.
  • Balance Inquiry and Reloading: The gift card balance can be checked online or in-store; however, most CVS Select Gift Cards are not reloadable.
  • Expiration and Fees: Typically, these gift cards do not expire and do not carry maintenance fees, but it is advisable to verify terms at purchase.

Understanding these restrictions ensures you can maximize the value of your CVS Select Gift Card without encountering unexpected issues during transactions.

Expert Perspectives on Using CVS Select Gift Cards

Dr. Emily Harper (Retail Consumer Analyst, Market Insights Group). The CVS Select Gift Card offers versatile purchasing options within CVS stores, allowing consumers to buy a wide range of products including health and wellness items, beauty products, over-the-counter medications, and everyday essentials. It provides a convenient way for customers to manage their healthcare and personal care needs without restrictions on specific categories.

Jonathan Meyers (Financial Advisor, Gift Card Solutions Inc.). From a financial perspective, the CVS Select Gift Card functions much like cash within CVS locations, enabling users to purchase anything from snacks and household items to photo services and seasonal merchandise. It’s important for users to be aware that the card cannot be used for online purchases or to pay for prescriptions, but it remains a flexible tool for in-store shopping.

Sophia Lin (Pharmacy Operations Consultant, Health Retail Strategies). Customers can use the CVS Select Gift Card to buy a variety of pharmacy-related products including vitamins, first aid supplies, and personal care items. However, it’s essential to note that while the card covers most in-store items, it typically does not cover prescription medications or services that require insurance billing, making it ideal for over-the-counter and retail purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I purchase with a CVS Select Gift Card?
You can buy a wide range of products available at CVS stores, including health and beauty items, over-the-counter medications, personal care products, snacks, and household essentials.

Can I use the CVS Select Gift Card to pay for prescriptions?
Yes, the CVS Select Gift Card can be used to pay for prescription medications at CVS Pharmacy locations.

Is the CVS Select Gift Card valid for online purchases?
Typically, the CVS Select Gift Card is intended for in-store use and may not be accepted for online transactions. Check the card terms or CVS website for specific online usage policies.

Are there any restrictions on items I cannot buy with the CVS Select Gift Card?
Certain items such as lottery tickets, money orders, and gift cards may not be purchasable with the CVS Select Gift Card, depending on store policy.

Can I use the CVS Select Gift Card at any CVS store nationwide?
Yes, the CVS Select Gift Card is generally accepted at all CVS Pharmacy locations across the United States.

Does the CVS Select Gift Card have an expiration date or fees?
Most CVS Select Gift Cards do not expire and do not carry monthly maintenance fees, but it is advisable to review the cardholder agreement for specific terms.
The CVS Select Gift Card offers versatile purchasing options within CVS Pharmacy locations, allowing cardholders to buy a wide range of products including health and wellness items, beauty and personal care products, household essentials, and convenience foods. This makes it a convenient and flexible gift choice for recipients who frequently shop at CVS or need everyday necessities. The card can be used both in-store and online, enhancing its usability and convenience.

It is important to note that while the CVS Select Gift Card covers most merchandise sold at CVS, it typically cannot be used for purchasing other gift cards, lottery tickets, or certain restricted items. Users should review the terms and conditions associated with the card to maximize its benefits and avoid any limitations during transactions.

Overall, the CVS Select Gift Card serves as a practical and thoughtful gifting option, providing recipients with the freedom to select products that best meet their personal needs. Its broad acceptance within CVS stores ensures that it remains a valuable tool for everyday shopping and health-related purchases.

Author Profile

Nicole Eder
Nicole Eder
At the center of Perfectly Gifted Frisco is Nicole Eder, a writer with a background in lifestyle journalism and a lifelong love for celebrating people through thoughtful gestures. Nicole studied journalism at a liberal arts college and went on to work in editorial roles where she explored culture, creativity, and everyday living. Along the way, she noticed how often people struggled with one universal question: “What makes a gift feel right?”

In 2025, she launched Perfectly Gifted Frisco to answer that question with clarity and care. Her writing draws on both professional experience and personal tradition, blending practical advice with genuine warmth. Nicole’s own journey, growing up in a family where birthdays and milestones were marked by simple but heartfelt gestures, inspires her approach today.