Can I Use an Aerie Gift Card at American Eagle (AE)?

AvatarByNicole Eder Using Gift Cards

If you’re a fan of Aerie’s comfortable, stylish apparel, you might be wondering about the flexibility of their gift cards—specifically, whether an Aerie gift card can be used for purchases at American Eagle (AE). Given that Aerie is a popular brand under the American Eagle Outfitters umbrella, this question often arises among shoppers looking to maximize the value of their gift cards or streamline their shopping experience across both brands.

Understanding the relationship between Aerie and American Eagle Outfitters is key to navigating where and how gift cards can be redeemed. While both brands share a parent company and often appear side-by-side in malls and online, their gift card policies may differ, which can impact your ability to use a gift card interchangeably. This overview will help clarify the connection between the two brands and what it means for your gift card usage.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to consider the nuances of store branding, gift card terms, and how retailers manage their payment systems. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or gifting someone special, knowing the ins and outs of Aerie and AE gift cards can enhance your shopping flexibility and ensure you get the most out of your purchase.

Using Aerie Gift Cards at American Eagle Outlets

Aerie is a sub-brand of American Eagle Outfitters (AEO), specializing in intimate apparel and activewear. Because of this close relationship, gift cards issued by Aerie generally have compatibility with American Eagle stores, but there are specific conditions to consider.

Aerie gift cards are typically part of the larger American Eagle Outfitters gift card system. This means:

  • An Aerie gift card can usually be used at American Eagle stores, both physical locations and online.
  • The balance on an Aerie gift card can often be applied toward purchases of American Eagle merchandise.
  • Conversely, American Eagle gift cards can also be used at Aerie stores, reflecting the shared corporate infrastructure.

However, it is important to verify the terms and conditions printed on the gift card or the accompanying documentation, as policies may vary by region or promotional period.

Where You Can Redeem Aerie Gift Cards

Aerie gift cards provide flexible purchasing options across multiple platforms related to the parent company. Below is a summary of typical redemption locations and platforms:

  • Aerie retail stores: Fully accepted for in-store purchases.
  • American Eagle Outfitters retail stores: Usually accepted for purchases, including apparel, accessories, and footwear.
  • Official websites: Both Aerie.com and AE.com generally accept Aerie gift cards during online checkout.
  • Mobile apps: If available, the American Eagle or Aerie mobile shopping apps also usually accept these gift cards.
  • Third-party retailers: Typically not accepted unless explicitly stated by the retailer.
Location Accepts Aerie Gift Card Notes
Aerie Physical Stores Yes Full acceptance for all merchandise
American Eagle Outfitters Stores Yes Includes apparel, accessories, and footwear
Aerie Online Store (Aerie.com) Yes Must enter gift card code at checkout
American Eagle Online Store (AE.com) Yes Compatible with gift card codes from Aerie cards
Third-Party Retailers No Generally not accepted

How to Check Your Aerie Gift Card Balance

Monitoring your gift card balance before making a purchase is essential to avoid declined transactions. Several methods exist for checking the balance of an Aerie gift card:

  • Online Balance Check: Visit the American Eagle Outfitters or Aerie official website and navigate to the gift card balance check page. You will need to enter the gift card number and PIN.
  • In-Store Inquiry: Visit any Aerie or American Eagle physical store and request a balance check at the customer service desk or checkout counter.
  • Phone Support: Call the customer service number printed on the back of the gift card to inquire about your balance.
  • Mobile App: If using American Eagle or Aerie’s app, you can often add your gift card to your account and track the balance digitally.

It is advisable to retain your gift card until the entire balance is spent, as some stores may require the physical card for returns or exchanges.

Limitations and Restrictions of Aerie Gift Cards

While Aerie gift cards offer convenience and flexibility, certain limitations and restrictions apply:

  • Non-Transferability: Gift cards cannot be transferred for cash or refunded except where required by law.
  • Expiration Dates: Some gift cards may have expiration dates or inactivity fees; check the terms to confirm.
  • Single Use: Partial use of a gift card balance is allowed, but some transactions may require the card to cover the full amount.
  • Promotional Use: Gift cards may not be combinable with certain promotional discounts or offers.
  • Lost or Stolen Cards: Typically, lost or stolen gift cards are not replaceable without proof of purchase.

Understanding these restrictions ensures a smoother shopping experience and prevents unexpected issues at checkout.

Using Aerie Gift Cards at American Eagle Outfitters

Aerie is a lingerie and lifestyle brand owned by American Eagle Outfitters (AEO). Although Aerie operates under the AEO corporate umbrella, gift cards issued specifically for Aerie and those for American Eagle Outfitters have distinct usage policies.

When considering whether an Aerie gift card can be used at American Eagle (AE) stores or on the AE website, it is essential to understand the following:

  • Brand-Specific Gift Cards: Aerie gift cards are typically intended for purchases within Aerie stores and on their official website.
  • American Eagle Gift Cards: AE gift cards can generally be used both in AE stores and on AE’s website, but they do not extend to Aerie stores or their site unless explicitly stated.
  • Gift Card Interoperability: Although both brands are under the same parent company, gift cards are often not interchangeable across the two brands due to separate inventory, pricing, and promotional structures.
Gift Card Type Valid for Aerie Purchases? Valid for American Eagle Purchases? Website Usage
Aerie Gift Card Yes No Only on Aerie.com
American Eagle Gift Card No (usually) Yes Only on AE.com

It is always advisable to check the specific terms and conditions printed on the gift card or consult the retailer’s customer service for confirmation. Occasionally, promotional events or policy changes may allow cross-usage, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.

Where to Use Aerie Gift Cards

Aerie gift cards are designed to be used exclusively for purchasing products within Aerie’s brand channels. These include:

  • Aerie Retail Stores: Any physical Aerie location nationwide will accept Aerie gift cards as payment.
  • Aerie Online Store: Purchases made on Aerie.com can be completed using an Aerie gift card.
  • Mobile App: If Aerie has an official app for shopping, gift cards may also be redeemable there, subject to the app’s payment policies.

Note that Aerie gift cards cannot be used for purchasing gift cards, gift registries, or certain promotional items. Additionally, Aerie gift cards are usually not redeemable for cash unless required by law.

How to Check Your Aerie Gift Card Balance

Before attempting to use an Aerie gift card, it is important to verify the available balance. There are several methods to check your Aerie gift card balance:

  • Online: Visit the official Aerie website and navigate to the gift card balance check page. You will need to enter the card number and PIN (if applicable).
  • In-Store: Visit any Aerie store and request a balance check from a sales associate at the register.
  • Customer Service: Call Aerie’s customer service number provided on the back of the gift card to inquire about the balance.

Additional Considerations for Gift Card Usage

When using an Aerie gift card, consider the following points to ensure a smooth transaction experience:

  • Partial Payments: If your purchase exceeds the gift card balance, you can typically pay the difference using another payment method.
  • Returns and Exchanges: Refunds for returns made with an Aerie gift card generally go back onto the original gift card, not cash or other payment forms.
  • Expiration and Fees: Most Aerie gift cards do not expire and do not have maintenance fees, but it is prudent to verify this on your specific card.
  • Lost or Stolen Cards: Report lost or stolen gift cards immediately to customer service. Replacement policies vary and usually require proof of purchase.

Expert Insights on Using Aerie Gift Cards for AE Purchases

Jessica Martinez (Retail Payment Systems Analyst, Consumer Finance Institute). Aerie gift cards are specifically designed for use within the Aerie brand, which is a sub-brand of American Eagle Outfitters. While both brands operate under the same parent company, Aerie gift cards generally cannot be redeemed at American Eagle (AE) stores or on their website. Customers should verify the terms and conditions on the card or contact customer service for precise usage guidelines.

David Chen (E-Commerce Strategy Consultant, Retail Solutions Group). From a retail operations perspective, gift cards issued by a sub-brand like Aerie are typically restricted to that brand’s inventory and point-of-sale systems. This means that an Aerie gift card will not function as a payment method for American Eagle products, as the backend systems treat these as separate entities despite shared ownership.

Emily Rogers (Customer Experience Manager, Fashion Retail Advisory). Customers often assume gift cards from related brands are interchangeable, but in practice, Aerie gift cards are valid only at Aerie stores and their online platform. For American Eagle purchases, a separate AE gift card is required. This distinction helps maintain brand-specific promotions and inventory management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use an Aerie gift card to shop at American Eagle (AE)?
Aerie gift cards are specifically for Aerie stores and cannot be used at American Eagle locations or on their website.

Are Aerie and American Eagle gift cards interchangeable?
No, Aerie and American Eagle gift cards operate independently and are not interchangeable between the two brands.

Where can I redeem my Aerie gift card?
You can redeem your Aerie gift card at any Aerie retail store or on the official Aerie website.

Can I use an American Eagle gift card at Aerie stores?
American Eagle gift cards are valid only at American Eagle stores and online; they cannot be used at Aerie.

Is it possible to combine Aerie and American Eagle gift cards for a single purchase?
No, since the gift cards are brand-specific, you cannot combine Aerie and American Eagle gift cards for one transaction.

What should I do if my Aerie gift card is not accepted online?
Ensure you are shopping on the official Aerie website and that the card has sufficient balance; contact Aerie customer service if issues persist.
Aerie gift cards can indeed be used for purchases at American Eagle (AE) locations, as both brands are part of the same parent company and often share gift card policies. However, it is important to verify the specific terms and conditions associated with the gift card, as some cards may be restricted to use only within Aerie stores or online platforms. Checking the balance and usage guidelines on the official Aerie or American Eagle websites can provide clarity and prevent any inconvenience during transactions.

Additionally, customers should be aware that while Aerie gift cards are generally accepted at AE stores, promotional offers or discounts may not always be applicable when using gift cards. It is advisable to consult customer service representatives or official resources to understand any limitations or exclusions. This ensures a seamless shopping experience and maximizes the value of the gift card.

Overall, understanding the flexibility and restrictions of Aerie gift cards in relation to American Eagle purchases empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Staying informed about the latest policies and updates from both brands will help users utilize their gift cards effectively and enjoy the full benefits offered by these popular retail outlets.

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.