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 in two versions: the standard Macy's Card and the Macy's American Express Card, which offers different rewards and benefits.
Both versions let you earn rewards on your purchases and access special promotions. The card reports to the three major credit bureaus, so your payment history affects your credit score just like any other credit card. You'll receive a monthly statement and can pay your balance online, by phone, or by mail.
Key Takeaways
- The Macy's Card is a store-only credit card that works at Macy's and Macy's Backstage locations, not at other retailers.
- Cardholders earn rewards points on purchases, with bonus points during special promotional periods throughout the year.
- The card comes with a variable interest rate, and your rate depends on your creditworthiness at the time you open the account.
- You can manage your account online through Macys.com, set up automatic payments, and view your balance and transaction history anytime.
- The card requires you to meet Macy's credit standards, which typically means having a credit score in the fair to good range.
How to Open a Macy's Credit Card Account
You can open a Macy's Credit Card online at Macys.com, in a Macy's store, or by phone. The online route is fastest—you'll answer questions about your income, employment, and existing debts, and you'll receive a decision within minutes in most cases. Have your Social Security number and a government-issued ID ready before you start.
If you explore in a store, a sales associate can help you complete the process on a tablet or computer. Store applications also process quickly, often while you wait. By phone, you can call the Macy's Credit Card customer service line and speak to a representative who will walk you through the process.
The process asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, annual income, and employment information. You'll also confirm that you authorize Macy's and Citibank to check your credit. After you submit, the system reviews your credit report and makes a decision. If you're approved, your card ships to your address within 7 to 10 business days.
Rewards and Promotional Benefits
The Macy's Card earns rewards points on every purchase you make at Macy's. The exact earning rate varies—you typically earn 1 point per dollar spent, but Macy's runs frequent promotions that double or triple points during specific periods. These promotional windows are announced in the mail, on Macys.com, and in your account dashboard.
Points accumulate in your account and convert to Macy's money—a store credit you can use on future purchases. The conversion rate is usually 100 points equals $5 in Macy's money, though promotional periods sometimes offer better rates. You can check your points balance anytime by logging into your account online or calling customer service.
The Macy's American Express Card offers additional benefits, including extra points on purchases and exclusive access to cardmember-only sales events. Macy's also sends cardholders special discount codes and early access to clearance sales. These perks change seasonally, so check your email and your account regularly for current offers.
Interest Rates, Fees, and Payment Terms
The Macy's Card carries a variable interest rate, meaning your rate can change over time. Your specific rate depends on your credit score and credit history at the time you open the account. Rates typically range from the mid-teens to the mid-20s in percentage terms, but your actual rate will be disclosed in your account agreement.
The card has no annual fee, so you won't pay a yearly charge just to hold it. However, you will pay interest on any balance you carry from month to month. If you pay your full statement balance by the due date each month, you won't owe interest. Late payments trigger a late fee, and if you miss a payment by more than 60 days, your rate may increase.
Your monthly statement shows your balance, minimum payment due, and the due date. You can pay online through your account, by phone, by mail, or in a Macy's store. Setting up automatic payments ensures you never miss a due date. Your minimum payment is typically 1 to 3 percent of your balance, but paying more reduces your interest charges faster.
How to set up Your Card and Set Up Your Account
When your card arrives in the mail, you'll see set up instructions on the envelope or inside the package. You can set up it online by logging into your account at Macys.com, by calling the customer service number on the back of the card, or by making a purchase at Macy's. Most cards set up automatically after your first transaction.
Once activated, log into your account online to set up your preferences. You can add a mailing address, set up automatic payments, enroll in paperless statements, and manage your contact information. Creating a strong password and enabling two-factor authentication protects your account from unauthorized access.
If you want to link your card to your Macy's Star Rewards loyalty program account, you can do that in your account settings. This connection lets you earn additional rewards and access loyalty-specific promotions. You can also manage multiple cards if you have more than one Macy's account.
Managing Your Account Online and by Phone
Your Macy's Credit Card account lives on Macys.com under "Account" or "My Wallet." Log in with your email and password to view your current balance, recent transactions, available credit, and rewards points. You can read statements as PDFs, set spending alerts, and update your personal information without calling.
The online dashboard shows your rewards balance and tells you how much Macy's money you've earned. You can also see upcoming promotional periods and any special offers tied to your card. If you notice a transaction you don't recognize, you can report it directly through your account or call customer service.
Customer service is available by phone at the number on the back of your card. Representatives can help you with payment questions, dispute charges, report a lost or stolen card, or ask about your rewards balance. You can also chat with a representative through Macys.com if you prefer not to call.
What Happens If You Close Your Account or Stop Using It
If you decide to close your Macy's Credit Card, you can do so by calling customer service or requesting closure through your online account. Before you close it, pay off any remaining balance. Once closed, you cannot make new purchases, but you'll still owe any balance you had at the time of closure.
If you straightforward stop using the card without closing it, Macy's may close it for inactivity after a period of time—usually 12 months or longer with no purchases. A closed account still appears on your credit report and affects your credit score, particularly if it had a balance when it closed. Closing a card also reduces your total available credit, which can slightly lower your credit score in the short term.
Your rewards points expire if your account is closed and remains inactive. Check your balance before closing and use any remaining Macy's money on a final purchase. Once your account is closed, you cannot earn or redeem points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Macy's Card outside of Macy's stores?
No. The Macy's Card works only at Macy's locations and on Macys.com. The Macy's American Express Card can be used anywhere American Express is accepted, but the standard Macy's Card cannot. If you need a card for other retailers, you'll need a separate general-purpose credit card.
What's the difference between the Macy's Card and the Macy's American Express Card?
The Macy's American Express Card earns rewards at a higher rate and offers additional perks like exclusive sales access and bonus points during promotional periods. The standard Macy's Card earns rewards at a lower rate but has the same annual fee (none) and works the same way otherwise. The American Express version is better if you shop at Macy's frequently.
How long does it take to receive my card after I'm approved?
Most approved cards ship within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a tracking number via email or mail. If you need your card sooner, ask a Macy's associate in-store about when ready issuance options, which may be available in some locations.
What should I do if I forget my online password?
Go to Macys.com and click "Forgot Password" on the login page. You'll receive an email with a link to reset it. If you don't receive the email, check your spam folder or call customer service to verify your account information and reset your password over the phone.
Do I need good credit to open a Macy's Card?
You typically need fair to good credit, though Macy's considers applications from people with a wider range of credit scores than some other issuers. If you're denied, you can ask customer service what factors led to the decision. You may be able to reapply after improving your credit or addressing issues on your report.