Update: As of 2/4/13, the Oakland CVS I shared with you all no longer accepts credit cards as a payment for VR’s.
I hate to write the millionth post about Vanilla Reloads, but I know that many Bay Area residents have had a tough time finding a store that lets them buy these with a credit card. I’ve called stores far and wide. Recently, Miles, Points, and Mai Tais was kind enough to share her source with me, in an area that isn’t close by, but one I do visit from time to time.
What I overlooked during my search was a CVS store a block away from my job. To say I frequent this place is an understatement: Any time things get slow around work, my friend and I go for a walk to CVS – to stock up on snacks, supplies, or just to get a break.
I do remember asking several times if I could buy Moneypaks or gift cards with a credit card – “Cash only.” This wasn’t really a problem, since I found a RiteAid nearby that let’s me buy fee-free Moneypacks with a debit card. Still, I have really grown to hate that phrase!
Today I went there yet again and noticed the Vanilla Reloads behind the register for the first time. Bracing myself for the inevitable, “Cash only” response, I asked if I could buy those with a credit card. The cashier thought for a second and replied, “Yes. You can buy them with cash or a credit card, but not with a gift card.” Strange, but ok!
I went back to my desk to grab my Sapphire card. This time I was helped by a different cashier, one that sees me there all the time. I asked for two Vanilla Reloads and he picked them up and began ringing me up. When it came time to pay, he actually asked for my ID. This threw me off, since he has never requested my ID before. I didn’t have my license and offered my employee ID, which he couldn’t accept. So I trekked back to the office, grabbed my ID, and came back.
Remembering what the previous cashier said about gift cards, I asked if I could pay with a prepaid card. He seemed unsure: “It has to be cash or credit only, but…let me go ask.” I began kicking myself as the cashier walked over to the manager standing nearby. Why did I have to ask?!?!
Thankfully, he returned and said those magic words, “You have to pay with cash or credit only.” Huge relief. I picked up two reloads and had to resist the urge to hug the cashier for making my day. This particular CVS store is very well stocked and it actually looked like I bought the first batch of cards this week. If you’re interested in the location, please comment below and I will email it to you.
You just don’t give up easily. Don’t you. I wish I was as persistent like you. I feel so embarrassed asking so many times in the same store but I guess it pays.
That’s where the moniker “PointChaser” comes from! Keep trying though. One of these days your persistence will pay off.
Yes, the registers at CVS in Chicago area all have signs clearly stating that only prepaid DEBIT cards have to be paid with cash, all others can be paid for with cash, credit, or debit.
Unfortunately things are less clear around here. There are no signs and the policy differs across stores, even within the same chain. Thankfully, the guessing game is over for me!
Please share the location!! Thank you!!!
Please share the location, I been looking around for a while. Thanks!!
Please share the location, I would greatly appreciate it!!! Thanks!!!
I would love the location as well. I will only pickup a couple, leaving some for everyone else and the infamous, pointchaser.
haha! That’s what I suggest all of us do to keep this thing going. Source is on its way.
My “source” was out yesterday 🙁 glad you found some a little closer to home 🙂
It wasn’t me – I’ve got an alibi! 🙂 If you’re ever in the Bay Area, my new source is fully stocked and I’m happy to share it.
Please share the location with me. Thanks!
Please share the location with me as well
Thanks for offering to share the location with us. I’m interested as well.
Please share the location with me as well. Thanks!
Please share the location with me as well. Thanks!
Please share the location with me as well. Cheers!
Could you provide location? Thanks!
please share the location with me! I live in the Bay Area!
Any info on the availability of Vanilla reloads would be appreciated!
Unfortunately, no. But if I find another location I will keep you posted.
I am interested in the location. Im in oakland
thank you for your awesome blog!!
Hi, could you email me what locations in San Francisco you have found Vanilla Reload in? There is a CVS near me but they only have the MyVanilla which won’t work for me.
There are two locations on Market Street, about a block from the Westfield Shopping Center.
Can u share with me the locations in san Francisco??
Please share the location. Are there any in the South Bay?
Never had luck finding them in the south bay, but there are several locations in Berkeley and two on Market Street in SF that accept credit cards.