This guide walks through installing Gift Card Checker By Maestro and getting your first self-service balance widget live on your storefront. Plan on a few minutes, since the app is built around a one-click setup.
Key takeaways
- Install from the Shopify App Store and choose a plan. All plans include a 3-day free trial.
- Add the widget to your storefront using the one-click setup.
- Customize the widget design to match your store.
- Test a balance check with a real gift card before you announce it to customers.
- Check analytics after launch to see how the widget is being used.
Before you begin
- Have at least one active gift card in your store to test with.
- Decide whether you expect fewer than 100 balance checks a month (Basic) or need unlimited checks (Advanced or Business).
- Note whether you are on Shopify Plus, since the checkout balance checker is a Business plan, Plus-only feature.
Step 1: Install the app and choose a plan
Open the Gift Card Checker By Maestro listing, click install and approve the permissions. Then choose a plan.
| If you want to | Choose |
|---|---|
| Try it with a limited number of monthly checks | Basic, $4.99/month |
| Get unlimited checks, unlimited history and advanced analytics | Advanced, $9/month |
| Add a checkout balance checker on Shopify Plus | Business, $19/month |
Step 2: Add the balance check widget
- Open the appGo to Gift Card Checker By Maestro from your Shopify admin apps list.
- Add the widgetUse the one-click setup to add the balance check widget to your storefront.
- Adjust the designUpdate colors, text and layout so the widget matches your store's look.
Step 3: Test a real balance check
Before announcing the widget, test it yourself with a real gift card. Confirm the balance shown matches what is recorded in your Shopify admin, and check that the widget displays correctly on both desktop and mobile.
Test with a gift card that has a partial balance, not a brand-new one, so you can confirm the widget shows the correct remaining amount after a purchase.
Step 4: Turn on the checkout balance checker (Business plan)
If you are on the Business plan and Shopify Plus, enable the checkout balance checker so customers can also check a balance during checkout, not only on the storefront widget.
Step 5: Review analytics
Once the widget is live, check the app's analytics to see how many balance checks are happening. This is also a useful way to confirm the widget is being used instead of support still receiving the same volume of balance questions.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do
- Test with a partially used gift card before launch.
- Match the widget design to your store's branding.
- Check analytics in the first few weeks to confirm adoption.
Avoid
- Launching without telling customers where to find the widget, for example in your FAQ or gift card page.
- Assuming the checkout balance checker is available on every plan; it is Business plan and Plus only.
- Forgetting to check the monthly check limit on the Basic plan if your store sells a high volume of gift cards.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to set up?
The app is described as a one-click setup, so most merchants can add the widget and start testing within a few minutes.
Do I need to write any code?
No. The setup is designed to be code-free, with a customizable design you can adjust after installing.
Which plan should I start with?
Start with Basic if you expect fewer than 100 gift card checks a month. Choose Advanced or Business if you need unlimited checks, unlimited history or a checkout balance checker.
Can I switch plans later?
Shopify apps generally allow you to change plans from the app listing or your Shopify admin. Check the current listing for the exact process.