Applebee's Gift Cards Guide 2026
Where to buy, how to check your balance, and everything you need to know
Applebee's gift cards are available in denominations from $10 to $100 and can be purchased online at applebees.com, in-store at any location, or at major retailers including grocery stores and pharmacies. Gift cards never expire and can be used for dine-in, Carside To Go, and in some cases delivery orders.
Where to Buy Applebee's Gift Cards
Applebee's gift cards are widely available through multiple channels. Physical plastic gift cards can be picked up at the register in any Applebee's restaurant nationwide. Online, applebees.com sells both physical cards shipped by mail and e-gift cards delivered by email within minutes for last minute gifts. Major grocery chains including Kroger, Safeway, and Publix stock Applebee's gift cards in their gift card aisles alongside other restaurant brands. Drugstore chains CVS and Walgreens carry them in denominations typically ranging from $25 to $100. Some warehouse clubs sell discounted multi-pack Applebee's gift cards at a slight savings off face value. During holiday seasons, Applebee's occasionally runs promotions where purchasing a certain amount in gift cards earns a bonus promotional e-gift card for yourself.
- Directly at applebees.com
- In person at any Applebee's location
- Major grocery store gift card racks
- Pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens
- Some Applebee's gift cards bundle with Dine Brands sister restaurants like IHOP
How to Check Your Applebee's Gift Card Balance
Visit the balance checker
Go to applebees.com and find the gift card balance checker, typically located in the gift cards section of the website.
Enter your card details
Enter your gift card number and PIN, found on the back of physical cards. The card number is typically a 16-digit code and the PIN is a 4 to 8-digit security code under a scratch-off panel.
View your balance
Your current balance will display immediately showing the remaining amount available for use at any Applebee's location.
Check in person
Alternatively, ask your server to check your balance when paying with the card at any Applebee's restaurant. The point of sale system will display the remaining balance on your receipt.
E-Gift Cards vs Physical Gift Cards
Applebee's offers both traditional plastic gift cards and digital e-gift cards. E-gift cards purchased online at applebees.com are delivered by email typically within minutes of purchase and can be printed at home or shown on a phone screen at the restaurant. E-gift cards are ideal for last minute gifts since there is no shipping delay. Physical cards are the better choice for gift giving occasions where a tangible card is preferred. Both formats carry the same terms including no expiration and no fees. When purchasing e-gift cards, double check the recipient email address before completing the order as delivery is automated and typically non-refundable once sent.
Gift Card Security and Lost Cards
Treat Applebee's gift cards like cash. If a physical gift card is lost or stolen, replacement is generally not available unless you have retained the original purchase receipt and the card has not been used. Some retailers may offer balance protection on gift card purchases made with a credit card, so keeping proof of purchase is recommended. For e-gift cards, save the email or take a screenshot of the gift card number and PIN before heading to the restaurant. Never share your gift card number and PIN publicly as anyone with both pieces of information can use the remaining balance.
Using Gift Cards with Deals
Applebee's gift cards can typically be combined with deals like the 2 for $25 meal or happy hour specials, though policies vary by location. Gift cards generally cannot be used to pay for gratuity in some states due to tax regulations. Always ask your server about gift card policies when paying (prices may vary by location).
Applebee's Gift Card FAQ
Do Applebee's gift cards expire?
No. Applebee's gift cards do not expire and have no maintenance fees, in compliance with federal gift card regulations. The balance remains available until fully used regardless of how much time passes.
Can I use an Applebee's gift card at IHOP?
Generally no. While Applebee's and IHOP share the same parent company, Dine Brands Global, gift cards are typically restaurant specific and an Applebee's gift card cannot be used at IHOP locations. Some promotional bundle cards may differ, so check the card terms.
Can I use a gift card for Applebee's delivery?
Gift card acceptance for delivery orders through DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub varies. Many third party delivery platforms do not accept restaurant gift cards directly. Gift cards are most reliably used for dine-in, Carside To Go, and direct online orders through the Applebee's app or website.
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