What the Nordstrom Bank Credit Card Is
The Nordstrom Bank Credit Card is a store card issued by Nordstrom Bank that you can use at Nordstrom stores and online. It works like any other credit card—you make purchases, receive a bill, and pay it back—but the rewards and benefits are tied specifically to Nordstrom shopping. You do not need to be a Nordstrom cardholder to shop there, but having the card gives you access to early sales, special discounts, and points toward future purchases.
Nordstrom Bank also issues a Nordstrom Visa card, which works at any merchant that accepts Visa, not just Nordstrom. The two cards have different reward structures and benefits, so which one makes sense depends on where you shop most.
Key Takeaways
- The Nordstrom Bank Credit Card earns points on Nordstrom purchases that you can redeem for Nordstrom merchandise or statement credits.
- Cardholders get early access to Nordstrom sales, typically 24 to 48 hours before the general public.
- The card has no annual fee, but interest rates and credit limits depend on your credit history and income.
- You can request a credit line increase after six months of responsible use, though approval is not may provide.
- The Nordstrom Visa card earns rewards at any store, while the regular Nordstrom card earns rewards only at Nordstrom locations.
How Rewards and Points Work
The Nordstrom Bank Credit Card earns points on every dollar you spend at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com. The exact earning rate varies—Nordstrom periodically runs bonus point promotions—but the standard rate is typically one point per dollar spent. You accumulate these points in your account and can redeem them for merchandise or statement credits once you reach certain thresholds.
Points do not expire as long as your account remains open and active. If your account is closed for inactivity or default, Nordstrom may cancel your points. You redeem points through your online account or by speaking with a Nordstrom associate in-store. There is no cash-back option; redemption is limited to Nordstrom purchases or statement credits applied to your Nordstrom card bill.
Nordstrom also runs seasonal promotions where you earn bonus points during specific shopping periods, often around major sales events like the Anniversary Sale. These promotions are announced in your account and through Nordstrom's website and email.
Cardholder Discounts and Early Access
Nordstrom cardholders receive early access to sales before they open to the general public. During major sales events, cardholders typically get 24 to 48 hours to shop before non-cardholders. This is one of the primary benefits beyond rewards points, especially during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which is the retailer's largest annual event.
Cardholders also receive special discount offers throughout the year via email and in-store promotions. These are distinct from the points you earn and may include percentage discounts on specific categories or one-time shopping events. Nordstrom sends these offers to your registered email address, so keeping your contact information current in your account is important.
How to Request and Manage Your Account
You can request a Nordstrom Bank Credit Card through Nordstrom.com, in any Nordstrom store, or by phone. The request process asks for your Social Security number, income, employment status, and other information Nordstrom Bank uses to assess creditworthiness. Nordstrom Bank will perform a hard inquiry on your credit report, which may temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.
Once approved, you receive your card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up it online, through the Nordstrom app, or by calling the number on the back of the card. Your credit limit is set at the time of approval based on your credit history and income; you cannot choose it yourself.
After six months of on-time payments, you can request a credit line increase through your online account or by calling Nordstrom Bank customer service. Nordstrom Bank will review your account history and may perform another hard inquiry. There is no may provide of an increase, and the decision depends on your payment history and current credit profile.
Interest Rates and Fees
The Nordstrom Bank Credit Card has no annual fee. However, you will pay interest on any balance you carry from month to month. The interest rate—called the Annual Percentage Rate or APR—varies based on your creditworthiness and current market conditions. Nordstrom Bank discloses your specific APR in your account agreement and on your monthly statement.
If you miss a payment, Nordstrom Bank charges a late fee. The amount depends on how late the payment is and your account history. Paying at least the minimum payment by the due date shown on your statement avoids late fees and protects your credit score.
If you carry a balance, you will also pay interest charges calculated daily on your outstanding balance. Paying your full statement balance by the due date avoids interest entirely. Many cardholders use the card for the rewards and discounts but pay the full balance each month to avoid interest charges.
Nordstrom Bank Credit Card vs. Nordstrom Visa Card
Nordstrom Bank issues two separate cards: the Nordstrom Bank Credit Card (store card) and the Nordstrom Visa card. The main difference is where you can use them and what rewards you earn.
| Feature | Nordstrom Bank Credit Card | Nordstrom Visa Card |
|---|---|---|
| Where you can use it | Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com only | Any merchant that accepts Visa |
| Rewards at Nordstrom | Points redeemable for Nordstrom purchases | Points redeemable for Nordstrom purchases or cash back |
| Rewards elsewhere | None | Lower earning rate at non-Nordstrom merchants |
| Annual fee | None | None |
| Early sale access | Yes | Yes |
If you shop primarily at Nordstrom, the store card is simpler and focuses your rewards there. If you shop at multiple retailers and want rewards everywhere, the Nordstrom Visa card is more flexible, though the earning rate outside Nordstrom is typically lower.
What Happens If You Close Your Account
If you close your Nordstrom Bank Credit Card account, any points you have accumulated remain in your account for a limited time. Nordstrom's policy allows you to redeem points for a period after closure, but the exact window varies. Contact Nordstrom Bank customer service before closing your account to confirm how long you have to use your points.
Closing a credit card account can affect your credit score in two ways: it reduces your total available credit, which may raise your credit utilization ratio, and it removes an active account from your credit history. If you have other credit cards and a low balance, the impact is usually small. If the Nordstrom card is your only card or carries a high balance, closing it may lower your score more noticeably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Nordstrom Bank Credit Card outside of Nordstrom?
No, the Nordstrom Bank Credit Card works only at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com. If you want a card that works everywhere, you would need the Nordstrom Visa card instead. The Visa version earns rewards at any merchant but at a lower rate outside Nordstrom.
What is the minimum credit score needed to get approved?
Nordstrom Bank does not publish a minimum credit score requirement. Approval depends on your overall credit profile, including payment history, existing debt, income, and credit utilization. People with fair credit have been approved, but those with poor credit or no credit history may face denial or a lower credit limit.
Do Nordstrom credit card points expire?
Points do not expire as long as your account is open and in good standing. However, if your account is closed due to inactivity or default, Nordstrom may cancel your points. Keeping your account active by using it periodically protects your points balance.
Can I transfer my Nordstrom points to another rewards program?
No, Nordstrom points can only be redeemed for Nordstrom merchandise or statement credits on your Nordstrom card bill. You cannot transfer them to airline miles, hotel points, or other loyalty programs.
What should I do if I forget my online account password?
Visit Nordstrom.com and select the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. Nordstrom will send a reset link to your registered email address. If you do not receive the email, check your spam folder or contact Nordstrom Bank customer service by phone for help resetting your password.