LOFT (a brand of the Ascena Retail Group) issues gift cards that work both in physical stores and online at loft.com. If you've received a LOFT gift card—whether as a birthday present, holiday gift, or personal purchase—knowing how to check your remaining balance is the first step before shopping. Your gift card balance represents the dollar amount still available for purchases, and this amount decreases each time you use the card.
Learn How Front Pay Cash Advances Work and Cost →
LOFT gift cards come in various denominations, typically ranging from $25 to $500, though the exact options available may vary by retailer or sales channel. Unlike store credit that might be tied to your account, a physical gift card functions as a prepaid instrument. The balance on your card is separate from any loyalty program account you might have with LOFT, though you can use both simultaneously when shopping.
Understanding the difference between your gift card balance and other forms of LOFT credit matters. If you've also earned rewards through their loyalty program or received store credit from a return, those appear separately in your account—not on your physical gift card. This distinction helps you plan your shopping trip and know exactly what funds you have available.
Gift cards never expire according to LOFT's standard policy, though this can vary by state due to state gift card laws. Some states have specific regulations about when or how gift card balances can be considered abandoned. Checking your balance periodically helps you keep track of what you have and prevents losing track of a card with remaining funds.
Practical takeaway: Before you start shopping, gather your physical LOFT gift card or locate the card number if you have it stored digitally. Knowing exactly what balance you have helps you make confident purchasing decisions.
The most straightforward way to check a LOFT gift card balance is through the official LOFT website. LOFT maintains a dedicated balance checker tool that requires minimal information and takes just a few moments to complete. This method works whether your card was purchased at a LOFT store, department store, or online.
Your Free Google Search and Activity History Guide →
To use the online balance checker, visit loft.com and look for the "Gift Cards" section, typically found in the footer menu or main navigation. From there, you should find a link to "Check Gift Card Balance" or similar language. The tool will ask for two pieces of information: your gift card number and the card's PIN (also called the security code).
Your gift card number appears on the front of the physical card, usually in a prominent location with 16 digits. The PIN is typically printed on the back of the card, often near the barcode or in a scratch-off area. Some LOFT gift cards have the PIN already visible, while others require you to scratch off a protective coating to reveal it. Make sure you have both pieces of information before starting the balance check.
Once you enter these details into the online checker, the system should display your current balance immediately. This real-time information tells you exactly how much purchasing power remains on your card. If you see a balance of $0, it could mean the card has been fully used, or it may indicate the system didn't recognize the card information (in which case you might need to re-enter the details or contact LOFT directly).
The online method has several advantages: it's available 24/7, requires no phone call, and provides instant confirmation. You can check from any device with internet access—computer, tablet, or smartphone. There's no cost associated with checking your balance, and you don't need to log into a LOFT account to use this tool.
Practical takeaway: Keep your gift card information handy when using the online balance checker. Write down the card number and PIN in a safe place, or take a photo of the card (front and back), so you can check your balance whenever you want without hunting for the physical card.
If you prefer not to use the website or don't have internet access, LOFT provides alternative methods to learn your gift card balance. Speaking with a representative directly can sometimes feel more reassuring, especially if you have questions beyond just the balance amount.
Learn How Zelle Payments Work After Sending →
LOFT's customer service phone line can provide balance information when you call. You'll typically need to have your gift card number and PIN ready, just as you would for the online method. The current customer service number for LOFT can be found on their website's "Contact Us" page. Wait times vary depending on call volume, particularly during holiday shopping seasons, so calling during off-peak times (weekday mornings, for example) may result in shorter waits.
Another option is to visit a physical LOFT store in person. Any store associate at the register can scan your gift card and tell you the remaining balance. This method requires no information beyond presenting the physical card itself. The associate will typically scan the barcode on the back of your card, and the register system will display your balance on their screen and yours. This approach works well if you're planning to shop anyway, or if you're in a location with a LOFT store nearby.
Some people prefer in-store checking because it allows them to immediately use their card for a purchase if desired. You can learn your balance and then decide right away whether you want to shop that day. Additionally, if you have questions about current promotions, product availability, or how to combine your gift card balance with other offers, the in-store staff can answer these questions on the spot.
Keep in mind that LOFT is part of Ascena Retail Group, which also owns other clothing brands. Your LOFT gift card typically works only at LOFT locations and loft.com—not at their other brands' stores. Confirming this with in-store staff can prevent confusion if you were considering shopping at a different location.
Practical takeaway: Choose the balance-checking method that fits your lifestyle. If you shop online frequently, the website checker takes seconds. If you're a store shopper, checking in person combines balance verification with immediate shopping if you choose.
Once you know your LOFT gift card balance, understanding how it functions during transactions helps you shop with confidence. Your balance represents funds that can be used toward any purchase at LOFT, including regular-priced items, sale items, and clearance merchandise. There are generally no restrictions on what types of clothing or accessories you can buy with your gift card balance.
Learn About Your Marriott Member Number →
When you make a purchase in a LOFT store, tell the cashier at checkout that you'll be using a gift card. They'll ask for your card, scan it, and the amount will be deducted from your balance. If your purchase total exceeds your gift card balance, you can pay the difference using another payment method—a personal credit card, debit card, or cash. Your gift card balance will be fully applied to the transaction, with any remaining balance staying on the card for future use.
Online shopping works similarly. During checkout on loft.com, you'll have the option to enter your gift card number and PIN as a payment method. The system will apply your available balance to your order. If your order total exceeds the card balance, you'll be prompted to add another payment method for the difference. Your remaining balance will be saved for your next purchase.
If you make a return of items purchased with your LOFT gift card, the refund process differs from regular refunds. When you return merchandise originally purchased with a gift card, the refund amount is credited back onto your gift card—not returned as cash. This means your balance will increase by the return amount. For example, if you return a $45 item purchased with your gift card, your card balance will increase by $45.
This system is important to understand because it means you can't receive cash back from a gift card return. The refunded amount stays as gift card value. If you were hoping to get cash back from a return, you'd need to contact LOFT directly to discuss your specific situation, though standard policy is to credit returns to the original form of payment—in this case, the gift card.
Practical takeaway: Your gift card balance can be partially used on any purchase—you don't have to spend it all at once. This flexibility lets you shop strategically, combining your gift card balance with sales and promotions over multiple trips.
Once you know your balance, protecting that information
Learn About Columbia Gas Ohio Payment Options →
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.