Store credit

Store Credit Usage Guide

Clear explanations of how to check, use, and frequently asked questions about store credit.

Many customers who use Shopify stores may have received "store credit" as a refund, apology, or membership benefit.

However,

  • What is store credit?

  • How does it differ from coupons and gift cards?

  • How do I use it?

  • Can it be combined with other discounts?

  • Does it have an expiration date?

Many customers also voice that they are unsure about the detailed usage of store credit.

This guide will provide a clear explanation of everything from how store credit works to how to use it and important considerations.


What is Store Credit?

Store credit is a "store-specific balance" issued by the shop.
It is saved in your account and can be used for payments on future purchases.

Unlike regular coupon codes or gift cards, it has the following features:

  • Account-specific (cannot be transferred to others)

  • Can be used without a minimum purchase amount

  • Can be combined with coupon codes

  • Has an expiration date

Simply put, it's like a "digital balance that can only be used within the shop."


Benefits of Using Store Credit

1. Can be Combined with Coupons

Store credit is treated as a "payment method" rather than a "discount," so it can be used on the amount after a coupon code has been applied.

Therefore,

"Coupon Discount + Store Credit"

This combination allows you to make purchases more affordably.


2. Easy to Use, No Code Entry Required

If you are logged in, available store credit will automatically appear on the checkout screen.

There's no need to copy and paste it like a coupon code.


3. Remaining Balance Can Be Used Later

You don't need to use all of it at once.

If the balance is more than the order amount, the unused portion will remain in your account and can be used for future purchases within its validity period.


How to Check Store Credit Balance and Expiration Date

You can check your current balance, expiration date, and usage history by following these steps:

  1. Open "My Account" at the top right of the shop site

  2. Log in with your registered email address

  3. Go to the "Store Credit" page

  4. Check your balance, expiration date, and usage history

*You may receive an email notification when the expiration date approaches.


How to Use Store Credit

STEP 1: Add Items to Your Cart

Select the desired products, specify the size and quantity, and add them to your cart.


STEP 2: Log In (Required)

Store credit can only be used with a logged-in account.

It cannot be used for guest purchases.

Please log in with your registered email address and password, or an authentication code.


STEP 3: Apply Coupon Code First

After entering your shipping information, enter and apply the coupon code.

Store credit will be applied to the amount after the discount.


STEP 4: Apply Store Credit and Checkout

The "Use store credit" option will appear on the checkout screen.

  • Turning it ON will automatically apply the balance

  • If the store credit covers the entire order amount, no additional payment is required

  • If the balance is insufficient, please pay only the difference

Please note that store credit with the closest expiration date will be used first.


Important Notes on Usage

1. Combination Rules

The following combinations are possible:

  • Coupon code

  • Store credit

  • Gift card


2. Cases Where Store Credit Cannot Be Used

Store credit cannot be used in the following cases:

  • Not logged in

  • Expired

  • Logged in with a different account

  • Using it at a shop different from the one that issued it


3. Returns and Refunds

Orders placed using store credit can be returned as usual.

Refunds will generally be returned to your account as store credit balance.


4. Terms of Use

Store credit is subject to the following:

  • Cannot be converted to cash

  • Non-transferable

  • Not for resale

Only the account holder may use it.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Store credit is not appearing on the checkout screen.

Please check the following:

  • Are you logged in with the correct account?

  • Has it expired?

  • Has the store temporarily suspended its use?


Q2. Can I return items purchased with store credit?

Yes. The standard return policy applies.

Refunds may be returned as store credit balance.


Q3. Do I need to use the full amount at once?

No.

Any unused balance can be used for future purchases within its validity period.


Q4. What's the difference between store credit and gift cards?

Gift cards can be transferred or given as gifts to others, but store credit is account-specific.

Additionally, store credit is generally issued as a refund, compensation, or membership benefit.


Summary

Store credit is a convenient and valuable benefit that can be used at Shopify stores.

Specifically,

  • It can be combined with coupons

  • It's easy to use

  • The balance can be used later

These are significant advantages.

Please make sure to check the expiration date and use it to your advantage.