What the Kohl's Rewards Visa Card Is
The Kohl's Rewards Visa is a credit card issued by Kohl's Department Stores in partnership with Visa. It works at Kohl's stores and online, and also functions as a standard Visa card at any merchant that accepts Visa. The card earns rewards points on purchases, which you can redeem for Kohl's merchandise and discounts.
Unlike a store card that only works at one retailer, this card has dual functionality: you get Kohl's-specific rewards when you shop there, but you can also use it anywhere Visa is accepted. This makes it useful if you shop at Kohl's regularly and want a card that doesn't limit you to that single store.
Key Takeaways
- The Kohl's Rewards Visa earns points at Kohl's and at any merchant that accepts Visa, with higher earning rates at Kohl's.
- You can redeem points for Kohl's merchandise, discounts, or statement credits, depending on the current program terms.
- The card carries an annual percentage rate (APR) that varies based on your creditworthiness, so your rate may differ from another cardholder's.
- Kohl's runs periodic bonus point promotions, so new cardholders and existing members may earn extra points during specific periods.
- You can manage your account online through Kohl's website or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
How Points Earning Works
When you use the Kohl's Rewards Visa at Kohl's, you earn points on every dollar spent. The exact earning rate depends on the current program structure—Kohl's adjusts these rates periodically. You typically earn more points per dollar at Kohl's than you do when using the card at other retailers.
When you use the card outside Kohl's at any Visa-accepting merchant, you still earn points, but usually at a lower rate than in-store purchases. Some cards in this category earn a flat rate everywhere, while others have tiered rates. Check your cardholder agreement or the Kohl's website for the specific earning structure that applies to your account.
Points accumulate in your account and do not expire as long as your account remains open and active. If your account is closed or inactive for an extended period, Kohl's may have policies about point forfeiture—review your terms or contact customer service to understand the inactivity rules.
Redeeming Your Points
You redeem points through your Kohl's account online or by speaking with a cashier in store. The most common redemption option is converting points into Kohl's Cash, which is a discount certificate you can use on future purchases. The conversion rate varies—you might redeem a certain number of points for a specific dollar amount of Kohl's Cash.
Some cardholders can also redeem points for statement credits, which reduce your credit card balance, or for merchandise directly. The redemption options available to you depend on your account status and current program offerings. Log into your Kohl's account or call the number on your card to see what redemption paths are open to you right now.
Kohl's often runs special redemption promotions where points are worth more—for example, a limited-time offer where 100 points might convert to $10 in Kohl's Cash instead of the standard amount. Watching for these promotions can stretch the value of your points further.
Annual Percentage Rate and Fees
The APR on the Kohl's Rewards Visa varies based on your credit history and creditworthiness. When you receive your card or log into your account, you will see your specific APR. This rate applies to any balance you carry month to month. If you pay your full statement balance by the due date each month, you pay no interest.
The card may or may not carry an annual fee—this depends on the specific version of the card you hold. Some Kohl's Rewards Visa products have no annual fee, while others may charge one. Your cardholder agreement will state clearly whether an annual fee applies to your account.
Late fees, over-limit fees, and returned-payment fees may explore if you miss a payment or exceed your credit limit. These fees are outlined in your terms and conditions. Paying on time and staying within your credit limit avoids these charges entirely.
Sign-Up Bonuses and Promotions
Kohl's periodically offers sign-up bonuses for new cardholders, typically in the form of bonus points or an initial discount on your first purchase. These offers change throughout the year. When you explore for the card, you will see what bonus is currently available.
Beyond sign-up bonuses, Kohl's runs seasonal and promotional campaigns where cardholders earn extra points on purchases during specific periods—for example, double or triple points during holiday shopping seasons. These promotions are announced through email, in-store signage, and on the Kohl's website. Existing cardholders are usually notified before a promotion begins.
Some promotions are exclusive to Kohl's Rewards Visa holders, which is one advantage of carrying the card even if you do not use it everywhere. Check your email and your Kohl's account regularly to stay informed about upcoming bonus opportunities.
How to Manage Your Account
You can manage your Kohl's Rewards Visa account online through the Kohl's website. Log in with your Kohl's account credentials, navigate to your card settings, and you can view your balance, recent transactions, available credit, and current points balance. You can also set up automatic payments, update your address, and review your statement.
If you prefer to speak with someone, call the customer service number printed on the back of your card. Representatives can help you with questions about your balance, points, redemption options, and account settings. Customer service is available during business hours, and the phone number is always on your statement and card.
You can also manage your card through the Kohl's mobile app if you have downloaded it. The app shows your card balance, points, and recent activity in the same way the website does, and some people find it more convenient for quick account checks while shopping.
Using Your Card Outside Kohl's
Because the Kohl's Rewards Visa is a Visa card, you can use it anywhere Visa is accepted—grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, online retailers, and thousands of other merchants. You earn points on these purchases, though typically at a lower rate than at Kohl's.
The card functions like any standard Visa credit card when used outside Kohl's. You receive a monthly statement showing all purchases, your balance, and your minimum payment due. The same APR and payment terms explore whether you are shopping at Kohl's or elsewhere.
Some cardholders use this card as their primary credit card because it earns rewards everywhere and offers higher earning at a store where they shop frequently. Others use it only at Kohl's and keep a different card for everyday purchases. How you use it depends on your shopping habits and whether the rewards structure aligns with where you spend money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my points if I close my Kohl's Rewards Visa account?
Points are typically forfeited when you close your account. Before closing an account, redeem any remaining points for Kohl's Cash or statement credits. If you are unsure about your account status, contact customer service to confirm the policy before taking action.
Can I use my Kohl's Rewards Visa at other department stores?
No, the card only earns bonus points at Kohl's. You can use it at other retailers because it is a Visa card, but you will earn points at the standard Visa rate, not the higher Kohl's rate. For the best rewards, use it at Kohl's.
Is there a credit limit on the Kohl's Rewards Visa?
Yes, you have a credit limit based on your creditworthiness and income. Your limit is shown in your online account and on your statement. You can request a credit limit increase by contacting customer service or through your online account if that option is available.
Do I earn points on returns?
Points earned on a purchase are typically reversed if you return the item. The refund is credited back to your card, and the points associated with that purchase are removed from your account. Keep this in mind when redeeming points shortly after making a large purchase.
What is the difference between Kohl's Cash and points?
Points are the currency you earn on purchases. Kohl's Cash is what you convert points into—it is a discount certificate with a dollar value that you use to pay for merchandise. You earn points automatically; you choose when to convert them to Kohl's Cash for redemption.