What the Macy's Credit Card Is
The Macy's Credit Card is a store card issued by Citibank that you can use to make purchases at Macy's locations and on Macys.com. Unlike a general-purpose credit card, it works only at Macy's and affiliated stores — you cannot use it at other retailers. The card comes with rewards in the form of points that you earn on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future shopping.
Macy's offers two versions of this card: the standard Macy's Card and the Macy's American Express Card. The American Express version can be used at more merchants beyond Macy's, but both cards are issued by the same bank and carry similar terms. Your credit score and payment history will determine whether you are approved and what interest rate you receive.
Key Takeaways
- The Macy's Card earns rewards points on purchases at Macy's, with bonus points during promotional periods that Macy's announces throughout the year.
- You pay an annual percentage rate (APR) on any balance you carry month to month; the rate depends on your creditworthiness and changes based on prime rate movements.
- The card has no annual fee, but you are responsible for making at least the minimum payment each month to avoid late fees and credit score damage.
- Macy's cardholders receive early access to sales and special discounts on certain shopping days, which are announced in your account or by email.
How Rewards Points Work
When you use your Macy's Card to buy something, you earn one point for every dollar spent. These points accumulate in your account and can be redeemed for a discount on a future purchase — typically, 100 points equals a $5 discount, though Macy's periodically changes this conversion rate. You can check your current points balance by logging into your account online or calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
Macy's runs bonus point promotions several times a year, usually around major shopping seasons like back-to-school, holiday, and clearance events. During these periods, you might earn double or triple points on purchases. These promotions are announced in Macy's stores, on their website, and via email to cardholders, so check your inbox or account regularly to catch them.
Points do not expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing. However, if your account is closed for inactivity or because you stop paying, Macy's may cancel your points. Once you have earned enough points to redeem, you can use them online, in-store, or by phone — the discount is applied at checkout.
Interest Rates and Fees You Should Know
The Macy's Card charges interest on any balance you do not pay in full by the due date. The APR varies based on your credit score and credit history; Macy's does not publish a single rate, so you will see your specific rate in your approval paperwork or by logging into your account. The rate can range widely depending on your creditworthiness, and it may change over time if prime rates move or if you miss payments.
There is no annual fee to hold the card. However, you will be charged a late fee if you miss a payment, and interest will accrue daily on any unpaid balance. If you carry a balance, the interest compounds, meaning you pay interest on top of interest. To avoid this, pay your full statement balance by the due date each month.
If you transfer a balance from another card or take a cash advance, different terms may explore — cash advances often carry a higher APR and an upfront fee. Check your cardholder agreement or call customer service before doing either.
How to Manage Your Account Online and by Phone
You can view your balance, make payments, and check your rewards points by logging into your account at Macys.com or through the Macy's mobile app. To set up online access, you will need your card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once logged in, you can set up automatic payments, read statements, and update your contact information.
If you prefer to handle things by phone, call the customer service number on the back of your card. A representative can answer questions about your balance, help you make a payment, explain your rewards, or information with a dispute. Customer service is available seven days a week, though hours vary.
You can also manage your account through the Macy's app, which lets you check your balance, view your points, and receive notifications about sales and promotions. Setting up push notifications ensures you do not miss bonus point events or special cardholder discounts.
Cardholder Perks and Early Sale Access
Beyond rewards points, Macy's cardholders receive benefits that non-cardholders do not. The most common is early access to sales — cardholders can shop sales a day or two before they open to the general public, both in-store and online. Macy's also offers special discount days exclusively for cardholders, usually announced a few weeks in advance.
During major shopping events like Black Friday or holiday sales, cardholders often receive an extra percentage off on top of the sale price. These offers are communicated via email and in-store signage, so check your email regularly and ask a Macy's associate about current cardholder promotions when you shop.
Some cardholders also receive personalized offers based on their purchase history — for example, a discount on a category you shop frequently. These appear in your account online or arrive by mail.
What Happens If You Miss a Payment
If your payment is late, Macy's will charge you a late fee, which appears on your next statement. More importantly, a late payment is reported to the credit bureaus and can lower your credit score. Even one late payment can affect your ability to borrow money in the future or may have access to for better interest rates on other cards or loans.
If you are unable to make a payment on time, contact Macy's customer service as soon as possible. Explain your situation — sometimes representatives can work with you on a payment plan or waive a late fee if it is your first missed payment. The sooner you call, the more options you may have.
If your account falls significantly behind, Macy's may freeze your account, preventing you from making new purchases. They may also send your account to a collection agency if the debt remains unpaid for several months. At that point, the debt collector will contact you, and the account will remain on your credit report for seven years.
Comparing the Macy's Card to Other Store Cards
Store cards like the Macy's Card typically offer rewards and perks that general-purpose credit cards do not, but they come with trade-offs. The main advantage is that you earn rewards faster at that specific store and receive exclusive sales access. The main disadvantage is that you can only use the card at one retailer, so it does not help you build a broader credit history or earn rewards on everyday purchases elsewhere.
If you shop at Macy's regularly and plan to use the rewards, the card can be worth it. If you shop there occasionally or prefer flexibility, a general-purpose rewards card might serve you better. Some people hold both — a store card for frequent shopping at one place and a general card for everywhere else.
Before you decide, consider how often you shop at Macy's and whether the rewards rate and perks are worth carrying another card. If you already have high credit card balances, adding another card may not be wise, even if the rewards are attractive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Macy's Card outside of Macy's?
The standard Macy's Card works only at Macy's and Macy's-owned stores like Bloomingdale's. The Macy's American Express Card can be used anywhere American Express is accepted, which gives you more flexibility. Check which version you have by looking at your card or logging into your account.
What is the credit limit on a Macy's Card?
Your credit limit depends on your credit score, income, and credit history. Macy's does not publish a standard limit. You will see your limit in your approval paperwork or by logging into your account online. You can request a credit limit increase after you have held the card for several months and made on-time payments.
Do my rewards points expire?
Points do not expire as long as your account is open and active. However, if your account is closed or inactive for an extended period, Macy's may remove your points. Keep your account active by using it occasionally and paying on time.
How do I redeem my rewards points?
Once you have accumulated enough points, you can redeem them at checkout in-store, online at Macys.com, or by phone. The discount is applied automatically when you provide your card number. You can also check your account online to see your current points balance and the discount value.
What should I do if I lose my card or suspect fraud?
Call the number on the back of your card when ready to report it lost or stolen. Macy's will cancel the card and issue a replacement. If you see unauthorized charges, report them right away — federal law limits your liability for fraudulent charges to $50, and many issuers waive that fee entirely if you report it promptly.