What the Sears Credit Card Is and Who Issues It

The Sears credit card is a store card issued by Citibank that you can use at Sears and Kmart locations. Unlike a general-purpose credit card, it works only at those retailers—you cannot use it at other stores or online merchants. Citibank handles the account management, billing, and customer service on behalf of Sears.

The card comes in two versions: a standard Sears card and a Sears MasterCard. The MasterCard can be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted, not just at Sears stores. Both are issued and managed through Citibank's credit card division.

Sears stores have been closing for years, and as of 2024, very few remain open. Before opening a new Sears card or using an existing one, check whether there is an active Sears or Kmart location near you. If you already have a Sears card through Citibank, your account remains active even if your local store has closed—you can still use it online at Sears.com or at any remaining physical locations.

Key Takeaways

  • The Sears credit card is issued by Citibank and works only at Sears and Kmart stores, unless you have the Sears MasterCard version.
  • You can request a card through Citibank's website or by visiting a Sears store, though store locations are now limited.
  • The card typically offers promotional financing periods and rewards on Sears purchases, though terms vary by offer.
  • Payments are made to Citibank, and your account is managed through Citibank's online portal or by phone.
  • If you have an existing Sears card, your account remains valid even if your local store has closed.

How to Request a Sears Card Through Citibank

You can request a Sears credit card directly through Citibank. Visit the Sears website and look for the credit card section, or go to Citibank's website and search for Sears card options. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, income, and current address. Citibank will check your credit report as part of the process.

If you are in a Sears store, you can also ask a sales associate about opening a card on the spot. They can direct you to a kiosk or provide an process form. The in-store process is faster if you are approved when ready, though you may still need to wait for the physical card to arrive by mail.

Approval decisions usually come within minutes if you explore online. If Citibank needs more information, they will contact you by phone or email. Once approved, your card will ship to the address you provided, typically within 7 to 10 business days.

Understanding Promotional Offers and Interest Rates

Sears cards often come with promotional financing offers, such as 0% interest for a set number of months on purchases over a certain amount. These offers change frequently and depend on the current promotion. When you explore, you will see what offer you may have access to for based on your creditworthiness.

If you do not pay off the balance before the promotional period ends, the regular interest rate kicks in. That rate varies but is typically in the range of 18% to 24% APR, depending on your credit score and current market rates. Read the terms carefully before you explore, because interest charges can add up quickly once the promotional period expires.

Some Sears cards also offer rewards points on purchases. You earn points for every dollar spent at Sears and can redeem them for discounts on future purchases. The exact point structure and redemption value depend on the specific card offer at the time you open the account.

How to set up Your Card and Make Your First Purchase

When your Sears card arrives in the mail, you will need to set up it before you can use it. Call the number on the back of the card or visit Citibank's website and log in with your new account. You will be asked to verify your identity by providing your Social Security number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Once activated, you can use the card when ready at any Sears or Kmart location, or online at Sears.com if you have the standard card. If you have the Sears MasterCard, you can also use it at any retailer that accepts MasterCard. Your first statement will arrive about 30 days after your first purchase, showing your balance and the due date.

Keep track of your promotional period end date. If you have 0% financing, mark your calendar for when that period expires so you can plan to pay off the balance or understand what interest rate will explore.

Managing Your Account and Making Payments

You can manage your Sears credit card account through Citibank's online portal. Create a login at Citibank.com or through the Citi mobile app. From there, you can view your balance, see your statement, set up automatic payments, and update your contact information.

Payments can be made online, by phone, or by mail. To pay online, log into your account and select the payment option. You can pay the full balance, the minimum payment, or any amount in between. If you pay by phone, call the number on the back of your card. Payments by mail should be sent to the address shown on your statement.

Your payment is due on the date shown on your statement each month. If you miss a payment, Citibank will charge a late fee and may report the missed payment to credit bureaus. Setting up automatic payments ensures you never miss a due date.

What to Do If You Have Questions or Problems

Contact Citibank directly for account questions, billing disputes, or problems with your card. The phone number is on the back of your card and on your monthly statement. You can also reach Citibank through their website at Citibank.com or through the Citi mobile app.

If you notice a charge you did not make, report it to Citibank as soon as possible. Citibank has a dispute process and will investigate unauthorized charges. You are generally not responsible for fraudulent charges if you report them promptly.

If your card is lost or stolen, call Citibank when ready to have it cancelled. They will issue a replacement card and send it to your address on file. In the meantime, your account is protected from further unauthorized use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Sears card at stores other than Sears?

Only if you have the Sears MasterCard version. The standard Sears card works only at Sears and Kmart locations and online at Sears.com. The MasterCard works anywhere MasterCard is accepted, including other retailers and online merchants.

What happens to my account if my local Sears store closes?

Your account remains active. You can still use your card online at Sears.com and at any remaining Sears or Kmart locations. You continue to make payments to Citibank as usual, and your account is managed the same way.

How do I check my promotional financing balance?

Log into your Citibank account online or through the Citi app. Your statement will show your promotional balance separately from any regular-interest balance. You can also call the number on the back of your card to ask a representative about your promotional period end date.

What is the minimum payment, and what happens if I only pay that?

Your minimum payment is shown on your monthly statement and is usually 1% to 3% of your balance. If you only pay the minimum and have a promotional 0% period, you will still owe the full balance when that period ends, and interest will start accruing on what remains unpaid.

Can I transfer a balance from another credit card to my Sears card?

Some Sears card offers include balance transfer options, but this is not standard. Check your card agreement or call Citibank to ask whether balance transfers are available on your account and what the terms would be.