Gift cards or PayPal: which reward should you choose?

Two ways to enjoy your points

Once your EthnicPath balance reaches $20, you get to decide what to do with it. There are two options: an Amazon.ca gift card or a PayPal payment. Both are worth the same, since 100 points = $1 either way, so the choice really comes down to how you like to spend.

This article compares the two side by side and shares a few simple tips to make sure your reward reaches you without a hitch.

The basics that apply to both

Whichever option you pick, the same rules apply:

• You can redeem once your balance reaches $20 (2,000 points).
• You can redeem one reward every 7 days.
• Your points do not expire while you stay a member, so there is no rush to redeem the moment you hit $20.
• There are no fees. Joining is free, and redeeming is free too.

Amazon.ca gift cards

Amazon.ca gift cards are delivered by email within one week. You receive a code that you add to your Amazon.ca account, and the balance is ready to use on your next order.

A gift card makes the most sense if you already shop on Amazon.ca. Household basics, books, a birthday present, something for the kids: if it is on your list anyway, a gift card simply takes that amount off what you would have spent.

Gift cards are also handy as presents. Some members like to save up a card and pass it on to someone else.

PayPal

PayPal payments are sent to your PayPal email within two weeks. Once the money is in your PayPal account, you can use it wherever PayPal is accepted.

PayPal makes the most sense if you want flexibility. It is money rather than store credit, so it is a better fit if you do not shop on Amazon.ca, or if you prefer to decide later what to do with it.

You will need a PayPal account to use this option. If you do not have one yet, you can set one up on PayPal before you redeem.

Side by side

If you want the short version:

• Faster delivery: the Amazon.ca gift card, by email within one week. PayPal arrives within two weeks.
• Most flexible: PayPal, since you can use it wherever PayPal is accepted.
• Best if you already shop on Amazon.ca: the gift card.
• Same value either way: $20 is 2,000 points, whichever you choose.

Tips for a smooth redemption

A few small checks prevent most delays:

• Choosing PayPal? Double-check that the PayPal email you give is exactly right, with no typos. It must be the email address linked to your PayPal account.
• Choosing a gift card? Watch your inbox during the week after you redeem, and check your spam or junk folder too. Reward emails sometimes land there.
• Remember the 7-day rule. If you just redeemed, your next reward will be available 7 days later, so there is no need to worry if the option is not there yet.
• Keep your account email current, so messages about your rewards reach you.

You can switch any time

Your choice is not permanent. You can pick a gift card this time and PayPal next time, depending on what you need. Many members simply choose whichever fits their plans that week.

Either way, think of it as extra money: a small treat or a little help with a purchase you were going to make anyway. If you have not joined yet, it is free for people 16 and over in Canada or the US, and you start with a $5 welcome bonus once you confirm your email.

Which reward arrives faster?

Amazon.ca gift cards are delivered by email within one week. PayPal payments are sent within two weeks.

What is the minimum to redeem?

You can redeem once your balance reaches $20, which is 2,000 points. The minimum is the same for gift cards and PayPal.

How often can I redeem?

You can redeem one reward every 7 days. Your points do not expire while you stay a member, so you can also let your balance grow.

I redeemed a gift card but cannot find the email. What should I do?

Gift cards are delivered by email within one week, so first check your spam or junk folder. If it is not there after a week, contact us and we will look into it.