The Nordstrom credit card is a store card that gives you rewards on purchases at Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack, but charges interest if you carry a balance
Nordstrom offers two versions of its store card: the Nordstrom Card (for Nordstrom stores) and the Nordstrom Rack Card (for the outlet chain). Both are issued by TD Bank and work only at those retailers — you cannot use them at other stores. The card has no annual fee, but the interest rate on unpaid balances is typically between 20% and 29.99%, depending on your credit profile at the time you open the account.
The main reason to consider this card is the rewards rate and the early access to sales. If you shop at Nordstrom regularly and pay your balance in full each month, the rewards can offset some of your spending. If you carry a balance, the interest charges will quickly erase any rewards value.
Key Takeaways
- The Nordstrom Card earns points on purchases at Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack, with bonus points during special shopping events.
- Cardholders get early access to Nordstrom sales, typically one day before the general public.
- There is no annual fee, but the interest rate on unpaid balances ranges from 20% to 29.99%.
- You should only use this card if you can pay the full statement balance each month, because the interest rate is high enough to eliminate rewards value quickly.
How the rewards program works
The Nordstrom Card earns one point per dollar spent at Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack. Points accumulate and can be redeemed for a discount on a future purchase — typically, 100 points equals a $20 reward, though the exact conversion rate can vary. During Nordstrom's seasonal sale events (usually held in January and July), cardholders earn bonus points on their purchases, which is when the rewards rate becomes more valuable.
The card also offers double points on certain categories during promotional periods, which Nordstrom announces to cardholders via email and in-store signage. These promotions are temporary and change throughout the year. If you shop frequently at Nordstrom, tracking these promotions can increase the value of your rewards, but it requires paying attention to the retailer's marketing.
Early access to sales and other cardholder benefits
Nordstrom cardholders receive one-day early access to the retailer's major sales events before they open to the general public. This means you can shop the sale a full day before non-cardholders, which can matter if you are looking for specific items that tend to sell out quickly. The card also provides access to exclusive in-store events and special shopping hours for cardholders only.
Beyond sales access, the card offers birthday rewards — typically a bonus points offer during your birthday month — and occasional special promotions sent directly to cardholders. These perks have real value if you are already a regular Nordstrom shopper, but they do not justify opening the card if you shop there only occasionally.
Interest rates and fees to understand
The Nordstrom Card charges no annual fee, which is standard for store cards. However, the interest rate on purchases you do not pay off in full is the real cost to watch. The rate is variable and typically falls between 20% and 29.99%, depending on your credit score and credit history at the time you open the account. This is higher than most general-purpose credit cards, which typically range from 15% to 25%.
If you carry a balance of $1,000 at 25% interest, you will pay roughly $250 per year in interest alone — far more than any rewards you could earn. Store cards are designed to be paid in full each month. If you think you might carry a balance, this card is not a good choice for you.
How the Nordstrom Card compares to other options
The main trade-off with the Nordstrom Card is rewards rate versus flexibility. A general-purpose cash-back card like the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Capital One SavorOne offers lower interest rates (typically 15% to 24%) and works everywhere, not just at Nordstrom. Those cards also offer cash back instead of points, which you can use however you want.
If you shop at Nordstrom frequently and can pay your balance in full each month, the Nordstrom Card's early sale access and bonus points during promotional periods may be worth the limited use. If you shop there only occasionally or think you might carry a balance, a general-purpose card will serve you better. The Nordstrom Rack Card follows the same structure as the Nordstrom Card but is limited to the outlet stores, so it makes sense only if you shop at Rack locations regularly.
What happens if you miss a payment
Missing a payment on the Nordstrom Card has the same consequences as missing a payment on any credit card: a late fee (typically $25 to $40 for the first late payment), a higher interest rate applied to your balance, and a negative mark on your credit report. The late payment will remain on your credit report for seven years and will lower your credit score.
If you fall behind on payments, Nordstrom's customer service can sometimes work with you on a payment plan, but this is not may provide. The best approach is to treat this card like any other credit card: set up automatic payments for at least the minimum due, or better yet, pay the full balance each month.
How to decide if this card makes sense for you
Open the Nordstrom Card only if all of these are true: you shop at Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack at least several times per year, you can pay your full statement balance every month, and you value the early access to sales. If you shop there only once or twice a year, the rewards will not add up to much. If you think you might carry a balance, the interest rate will wipe out any benefit.
If you do not meet all three conditions, a general-purpose cash-back card will give you more flexibility and a lower interest rate. You can still shop at Nordstrom with a general-purpose card and earn rewards — you just will not get the early sale access or the bonus points during Nordstrom's promotional events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Nordstrom Card anywhere besides Nordstrom?
No. The Nordstrom Card works only at Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack stores. It cannot be used at other retailers. If you need a card that works everywhere, you would need a different credit card.
What is the credit score needed to open a Nordstrom Card?
Nordstrom does not publish a minimum credit score requirement, but store cards typically accept applicants with fair credit (usually 600 and above). Your exact interest rate will depend on your credit score and history — a higher score usually means a lower rate within the 20% to 29.99% range.
Do I have to pay an annual fee?
No. The Nordstrom Card has no annual fee. The only costs are interest charges if you carry a balance and any late fees if you miss a payment.
Can I transfer my Nordstrom Card balance to another card?
Yes, you can transfer your Nordstrom Card balance to another credit card that offers balance transfers, though most balance transfer offers come with a fee (typically 3% to 5% of the amount transferred). Check the terms of the card you are transferring to before you proceed.
What happens to my rewards points if I close the card?
Nordstrom's rewards points typically expire if your account is closed or inactive for an extended period. Check your cardholder agreement or contact Nordstrom customer service to confirm the exact policy, but the safest approach is to redeem your points before closing the account.