Department store credit cards, or credit cards with department store rewards, can be beneficial in a lot of ways. Frequent shoppers benefit from cash-back programs, while those who may shop less frequently can take advantage of percentage discounts and other perks offered by stores.
When thinking about getting a department store card, consider not only where you shop the most, but the interest rates and fees associated with that card.
It’s important to remember that department store credit cards still function like your general use credit card when it comes to APRs and how they can affect your credit score.
This guide will walk you through some of the best department store credit cards, as well as credit cards that aren’t limited to a single store, but offer department store rewards.
Table of Contents
Macy’s American Express Card
Rewards:
- 3% cash back at restaurants and food delivery;
- 2% cash back at gas stations and supermarkets;
- 1% cash back on all other purchases;
- 25% off all purchases with Star Passes at Macy’s for platinum, gold, and silver members.
Interest Rates and Fees:
- APR: 25.24%;
- Annual fee: None;
- Late fee: Up to $40.
Macy’s partners with American Express, allowing cardholders to use their card outside the Macy’s store, while still maintaining the benefits of a Macy’s star cardholder.
This card is perfect for the frequent Macy’s shopper, who can earn platinum or gold status by spending up to $1,200 in a year. At these higher ranks, you can get 25% off every purchase you make with your card, which can stack on top of store-wide sales.
For the less frequent Macy’s shoppers who may not qualify for these high statuses, you’re still eligible for bonus days, and their cash-back programs.
Compare other rewards credit cards here.
Nordstrom Visa Signature Card
Rewards:
- Up to three points on all Nordstrom’s purchases;
- One point on all other purchases;
- Alteration benefits up to $300.
Interest Rates and Fees:
- APR: 18.9% to 25.9% variable;
- Annual fee: None;
- Late fee: Up to $40.
Nordstrom offers cardholders points, rather than cash back. Shoppers may use these points for in-store and online purchases and fashion services at Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, HauteLook, and Nordstrom Trunk Club.
Additionally, Nordstrom Visa cardholders automatically enter Nordstrom’s “Nordy Club” at their “Influencer” level, which unlocks more in-store benefits that can be found on their Nordy Club perks page. With all the in-store perks, and no annual fee, this card is perfect for Nordstrom lovers.
Compare other rewards credit cards here.
JCPenney Credit Card
Rewards:
- One point per dollar spent with your JCPenney card;
- One point per every $2 spent with another payment method;
- Special financing offers;
- $10 JCP rewards certificate every 200 points.
Interest Rates and Fees:
- APR: 25.99% variable.
- Annual fee: None.
- Late fee: Up to $39.
JCPenney uses a point system for their cardmembers, which changes depending on your member level. What’s great about this card is that you can get special financing for large purchases, such as mattresses or appliances, which can be beneficial if you’re looking to buy a large-ticket item.
This card has one of the higher APRs compared to the other department store cards here, so it’s best to pay your card balance off every month to get the most out of the rewards it offers.
Compare other rewards cards here.
Credit Cards for Department Store Rewards
Department store-specific cards aren’t the only cards that can earn you rewards for your purchases. The following cards offer purchase rewards at select department stores, and can be great for shoppers who frequent different stores, or want more variety in their rewards package.
American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card
Rewards:
- 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%);
- 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. department stores;
- 1% cash back on general purchases.
Interest Rates and Fees:
- APR: 13.99% to 23.99% variable;
- Annual fee: None;
- Late fee: Up to $40;
- Foreign transaction fee: 2.7%.
The Blue Cash Everyday Card from Amex is a great cash-back credit card. It can help you rack up cash back at your favorite department stores, as well as grocery stores and gas stations in the U.S.
If you shop year-round, you can get a lot of use out of the cash-back programs this card offers. If your shopping is focused more on holidays or other once-a-year events, then you may feel more satisfied with one of the department store cards listed above.
Compare other best credit cards here.
Citi Double Cash Card
Rewards:
- 1% cash back on all purchases;
- 1% cash back on all account payments with a remaining balance.
Interest Rates and Fees:
- APR: 13.99% to 23.99% variable;
- Annual fee: None;
- Late fee: 29.99% APR penalty charge;
- Foreign transaction fee: 3%.
The Citi Double Cash Card is one of the more flexible options for people looking for cash-back rewards at department stores. This card offers cash-back rewards not only when you make a purchase, but when you pay that purchase off.
This can be great for people with stellar payment history, or who are doing some credit repair and still want some reward benefits.
Getting a shopping credit card can be great for saving money on your department store purchases, and generating cash back or points rewards. However, like any other credit card, it’s important not to get carried away. Responsible card users can experience benefits at their favorite stores with little to no fees.
Compare other best credit cards here.
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