Two different codes
A Steam Wallet code is 15 characters in three dash-separated groups of five, and it adds money. A game key, or CD key, is a longer alphanumeric code that unlocks one specific game.
Putting one in the other's box gives an "invalid" error even though the code is perfectly fine. Check which product you bought before you blame the code.
A Wallet code, in the Steam client
-
1
Open Steam and sign in to the account that should get the funds
-
2
Open the Games menu at the top
-
3
Choose Redeem a Steam Wallet Code
-
4
Enter the 15-character code
The new balance appears next to your account name once it goes through.
A Wallet code, on the web
-
1
Sign in at store.steampowered.com
-
2
Open your account details and choose the option to redeem a Wallet code
-
3
Enter the code and confirm
A game key
-
1
In the Steam client, open the Games menu
-
2
Choose Activate a Product on Steam
-
3
Accept the agreement, paste the key, and the game is added to your library
What the error means
| Message | What it means | Who can fix it |
|---|---|---|
| This code has already been redeemed | Someone activated it. If it was not you, it happened before delivery. | CubieMart — open a dispute |
| This Steam account is not eligible to activate this product in this region | The key is region-restricted to a country your account is not in. | Only Valve — check the region on the listing next time |
| The Wallet code you have entered is in the wrong currency | Your wallet currency and the code currency differ. Steam will not convert. | Only Valve |
| Invalid activation code | Wrong screen, or a typo. Wallet codes and game keys are not interchangeable. | You first, then CubieMart |
When it is CubieMart's problem
- Already-activated key, a key for a different game, or a Wallet code where a game key was listed.
- Open the order at /account/orders, choose Report a problem, attach a screenshot of the Steam dialog, then read /help/refunds.
Steam's own help pages
- Steam Wallet FAQ: https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/78E3-7431-1E88-AD59
- Steam Support home: https://help.steampowered.com/en/