How to Activate Your Ulta Gift Card Before You Use It
You can activate an Ulta gift card online, by phone, or in store — activation is free and takes just a few minutes
Ulta gift cards don't require activation to work, but if you want to register your card to your account, you can do that through their website or by calling customer service. Registration lets you check your balance online and link the card to your Ulta Beauty Rewards account if you have one. The process is straightforward and costs nothing.
If you received a physical gift card in the mail or bought one in store, you can start using it right away without any registration step. However, registering it protects you if the card is lost or stolen, since Ulta can replace a registered card with its remaining balance.
Key Takeaways
- Ulta gift cards work immediately without registration, but registering them online or by phone adds fraud protection.
- To register online, go to Ulta.com, sign into your account, and add the card to your payment methods using the 16-digit card number on the back.
- You can also register by calling Ulta customer service at 1-866-983-8582 and providing your card number and the PIN on the back.
- Registering your card lets you check the balance anytime through your Ulta account or by calling the same customer service number.
- If you lose a registered card, Ulta can issue a replacement with the remaining balance to a new card number.
Register your card online through Ulta.com
Go to Ulta.com and sign into your account using your email and password. If you don't have an Ulta account yet, you can create one for free during this process. Once you're logged in, look for "Account" or "My Account" in the top menu, then select "Payment Methods" or "Manage Payment."
Click the option to add a new payment method and choose "Gift Card." Enter the 16-digit card number printed on the back of your physical card, then enter the PIN (also on the back). Ulta will confirm the card's balance and add it to your account. You can now use this card to check your balance anytime by returning to this same page.
Register by phone with Ulta customer service
Call Ulta customer service at 1-866-983-8582. Have your gift card in front of you so you can read the 16-digit number and the PIN from the back of the card. A representative will ask for these numbers and may ask for your name and phone number to set up the registration.
The representative can also check your balance over the phone and answer questions about where you can use the card. This call is free and usually takes fewer than five minutes. If you're calling from outside the United States, check Ulta.com for the international customer service number.
Check your balance after registration
Once your card is registered to your Ulta account, you can check the balance anytime by logging into Ulta.com, going to "Payment Methods," and looking at the balance listed next to your gift card. You can also check the balance by calling customer service at 1-866-983-8582.
If your card is not registered, you can still check the balance by calling the same number or by asking a cashier in an Ulta store to scan the card. Some Ulta locations have kiosks where you can swipe your card to see the balance yourself.
What to do if you lose your registered card
If you lose a gift card that you registered to your account, call Ulta customer service at 1-866-983-8582 right away. Have your account information ready. A representative can freeze the card to prevent anyone else from using it and will issue a replacement card with the remaining balance transferred to it.
This protection is one of the main reasons to register your card. If your card is not registered and you lose it, Ulta cannot replace it or recover the balance. The replacement card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks, depending on your location.
Using your gift card in store and online
Once your card is registered (or even if it isn't), you can use it to buy anything at Ulta Beauty stores or on Ulta.com. In store, hand the card to the cashier at checkout just like a credit card. Online, enter the 16-digit card number and PIN in the payment section when you check out.
If your gift card balance doesn't cover the full purchase, you can combine it with another payment method — a credit card, debit card, or another gift card. Ulta will charge the gift card first, then ask for a second payment method for the remaining amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my Ulta gift card to use it?
No. Ulta gift cards work immediately without registration. You can use an unregistered card in store or online right away. Registration is optional and mainly protects you if the card is lost or stolen.
What if I don't have the PIN on the back of my card?
The PIN is printed on the back of every physical Ulta gift card. If you can't read it clearly, call customer service at 1-866-983-8582 and they can help you register using other information. If you received a digital gift card by email, the PIN will be in the email message.
Can I use my Ulta gift card to earn Rewards points?
Yes. When you use your registered gift card to make a purchase, you earn Ulta Beauty Rewards points just like you would with any other payment method. You must be enrolled in the free Rewards program and have your account linked to your gift card for points to post.
How long does a gift card balance stay active?
Ulta gift cards do not expire and have no time limit. Your balance will remain on the card indefinitely, whether it's registered or not. You can use it whenever you're ready.
Can I transfer my gift card balance to someone else?
No. Ulta gift cards are tied to the card number itself, not to a person. You can give the physical card to someone else and they can use it, but you cannot move the balance to a different card or account.