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How Do I Use a Steam Reference Code?

A “Steam reference code” can mean a Wallet code, a game product key, or a key for an external service. Identify the type first, then use the matching Steam flow.
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Steam does not identify a distinct code type called a “reference code.” The right place to enter it depends on what the code is for: Wallet codes add funds, Steam product keys activate a game in your library, and some CD keys are for a third-party service. Check the card, email, or retailer’s instructions before redeeming.

Identify what your code unlocks

Code type What it unlocks Where to use it
Steam Wallet code or gift-card code Funds in your Steam Wallet Redeem a Steam Gift Card or Wallet Code
Steam product key or CD key A game or other product in your Steam library Steam client: Add a Game > Activate a Product on Steam
Steam-issued third-party activation key Registration with an external client or service Steam library: right-click the game, then Manage > CD keys to view the key; redeem it with the service named in the instructions

Do not assume a code is for Steam just because it is described as a “reference code.” The retailer, card, or email should say whether it is redeemable on Steam or another service.

Redeem a Steam Wallet code

  1. Sign in to the Steam account that should receive the funds.
  2. Open Steam’s Redeem a Steam Gift Card or Wallet Code page.
  3. Enter the code in the Wallet Code field and continue through the prompts.
  4. Check your Steam Wallet balance to confirm that the value was added.

Steam converts a Wallet code to the currency of your Steam Wallet when it is redeemed. The conversion rate is not universal; the official page does not specify one fixed rate.

Activate a game key intended for Steam

  1. Open the Steam client and sign in.
  2. Select Add a Game in the lower-left corner of the client.
  3. Choose Activate a Product on Steam.
  4. Follow the prompts and enter the product key when asked.

This flow is for a key that the seller or product instructions identify as a Steam key. A Wallet code will not activate a game, and an external-service key may need to be redeemed outside Steam.

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Find a Steam-issued CD key for another service

Some games provide an additional activation key for a third-party client or service. In your Steam library, right-click the game and select Manage > CD keys. Use the key with the service specified by the game’s instructions; it is not Steam Wallet credit.

If a Steam-issued key is rejected as invalid or already used, Steam directs players to contact the game’s developer or publisher for support.

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If a code does not work

  • A game key is rejected: Check that the seller or product instructions say the key activates on Steam. If it is for a different service, use that service’s redemption process.
  • A Wallet code is not accepted: Make sure you are signed in and have entered it on Steam’s Wallet redemption page. Steam says a retail Wallet code can take several hours after purchase to be activated by the retailer. If it still fails after waiting, Steam requests a clear image of the entire back of the card and the retail receipt. For a code printed on a receipt, contact the retailer.
  • A Steam-issued third-party key is invalid or duplicated: Contact the game’s developer or publisher, as directed by Steam.
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Keep Wallet codes private

Do not give a Steam Wallet gift-card code to a stranger or use it to pay someone who contacts you. Steam warns that requests for payment in Wallet gift cards are likely scams. These cards are redeemed on Steam, not used as a general payment method.

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