Quick answer
Go to xbox.com/redeem, sign in to the Microsoft account that should get the money and enter the 25-character code. On a console, press the Xbox button, open Store, press View and select Redeem. The card's currency must match the Microsoft account's currency, or Xbox shows error XBOS3004. A redeemed code cannot be moved to another account.
Redeem an Xbox code step by step
Sign in to the correct account
Xbox Support cannot transfer a redeemed code to another Microsoft account. For a gift, sign in to the recipient's account.
Open the redeem screen
Web: xbox.com/redeem. Console: Xbox button, Store, View button, Redeem. Windows: Xbox app, gamerpic, Settings, Redeem. Mobile app: profile picture, gear icon, Redeem code.
Enter the 25-character code
Codes look like XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX and never use A, E, I, O, U, L, S, 0, 1 or 5.
Follow the prompts
You may be asked to add a payment option and billing address first. Xbox says nothing is charged during this step.
Check the balance
The value goes to your Microsoft account balance, in the account's currency.
What does error XBOS3004 mean?
It means the gift card's currency does not match your Microsoft account's currency. Microsoft's example: a Canadian-dollar card cannot be redeemed to a US account, which uses US dollars. Microsoft also asks that your account region matches your physical location. On a console, check Profile & system > Settings > System > Language & location. If you bought a card for the wrong region, contact the seller. Microsoft balances cannot be converted to another currency.
What if the code is already redeemed or inactive?
If Xbox says the code was already redeemed, check whether you used it on another Microsoft account, or whether someone in your household did. Review Order history and Subscriptions on each account. Retail codes must be activated at the point of sale. If one still fails 24 hours after purchase, take it back to the retailer with proof of purchase. Codes can also fail while an account is suspended or has a balance due. For a code from us, email [email protected].
Does Xbox gift card balance expire?
No. Non-promotional Microsoft account balance does not expire, and Microsoft charges no fees for holding it. Promotional balance, such as Microsoft Rewards credit, follows its own expiry terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Xbox Game Pass with an Xbox gift card?
Yes. Microsoft's US product page says the gift card can buy Xbox Game Pass. Separate Game Pass subscription codes can only extend a membership up to 13 to 36 months, depending on the country.
Why does Xbox ask for payment details when I redeem?
Billing information lets you access content and your account balance in Microsoft Store. Xbox says you are not charged when you set it up to redeem a code.
Can Xbox Support move my code to another account?
No. Once a code is redeemed to a Microsoft account, Xbox Support cannot transfer the content to a different account. Always check which account is signed in first.
Where do I redeem codes for in-game currency from other publishers?
In that game's own store or on the publisher's website. Xbox codes always have 25 characters in five blocks; similar-looking codes, such as Fortnite V-Bucks cards, redeem elsewhere.
Official sources (5)
- How to redeem gift cards, codes, and offers — Microsoft (checked 2026-10-21)
- My digital code or gift card doesn't work — Microsoft (checked 2026-10-21)
- Error XBOS3004 occurs when redeeming a code on XBOX One or XBOX.com — Microsoft (checked 2026-10-21)
- Microsoft gift cards terms and conditions — Microsoft (checked 2026-10-21)
- Xbox Gift Card – Digital Code (Microsoft Store, US) — Microsoft (checked 2026-10-21)