Ready to unlock a world of enhanced rewards and broader spending power? If you're a loyal Macy's shopper with the store-exclusive Macy's Credit Card, you've likely considered stepping up to the Macy's American Express® Card. This isn't just about shopping at Macy's anymore; it's about earning rewards everywhere you go! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about upgrading, from understanding the benefits to navigating the process.
The Allure of the Macy's American Express® Card
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's briefly touch upon why this upgrade is so appealing. The regular Macy's Credit Card is fantastic for in-store and macys.com purchases, but its utility ends there. The Macy's American Express® Card, however, opens up a new realm of possibilities:
Expanded Earning Potential: Earn rewards not just at Macy's, but also on everyday purchases like dining, gas, and groceries.
3% back in rewards at restaurants, including delivery.
2% back in rewards at gas stations & supermarkets.
1% back in rewards everywhere else American Express is accepted.
Star Money Rewards: Accumulate points and convert them into Star Money, which you can use for most purchases at Macy's. Every 1,000 points equals a $10 Star Money reward.
No Annual Fee: That's right, enjoy all these benefits without an annual fee!
Amex Offers: Access exclusive deals and discounts from various merchants through American Express.
Maintain Your Star Rewards Status: Your existing Star Rewards loyalty level and points seamlessly transfer to your new Macy's American Express® Card.
Now, let's get down to the brass tacks of upgrading.
Step 1: Are You on Macy's Radar? (Targeted Offers)
This is where your journey begins! Have you received a special invitation from Macy's or American Express?
Macy's primarily offers upgrades from the Macy's Credit Card to the Macy's American Express® Card on a targeted basis. This means they often identify existing cardholders who meet certain criteria and extend an offer directly to them.
Sub-heading: Checking for Invitations
Keep an eye on your mail and email: Macy's frequently sends out upgrade offers through postal mail or email to eligible cardholders. These offers will typically highlight the benefits of the American Express version of the card and provide clear instructions on how to accept.
Log into your Macy's account online: Sometimes, you might find an upgrade offer prominently displayed within your online Macy's Credit Card account. Navigate to your account details on macys.com or through the Macy's app. Look for banners, pop-ups, or specific sections related to card upgrades.
Check your billing statements: Occasionally, upgrade offers are included as inserts or special notices within your monthly Macy's Credit Card statements.
If you've received a targeted offer, congratulations! This is often the smoothest path to upgrading. The terms of the offer will be clearly laid out, and accepting it typically involves a straightforward process, often without a hard credit inquiry.
Step 2: Understanding Eligibility - Beyond the Invitation
What if you haven't received a targeted offer? Don't despair! While targeted offers are common, you can still pursue the upgrade. Your eligibility is key here, and it's largely dependent on your creditworthiness and your relationship with Macy's.
Sub-heading: Key Factors for Eligibility
Good Credit Standing: This is paramount. American Express and Macy's will be looking for a responsible payment history. This means:
Consistently making on-time payments.
Keeping your credit utilization low.
Having a generally good credit score. While no specific number is guaranteed, a "good" credit score (typically FICO 670-739) or "excellent" credit (740-799) will significantly increase your chances.
Account History with Macy's: Demonstrating consistent use of your current Macy's Credit Card and maintaining a good payment record with them strengthens your case.
Income and Debt-to-Income Ratio: Lenders assess your ability to take on new credit. A stable income and a manageable debt-to-income ratio are favorable.
No Recent Derogatory Marks: Bankruptcies, foreclosures, or significant delinquencies on your credit report will hinder your chances.
Sub-heading: Important Note on Credit Inquiries
If you are pursuing an upgrade without a specific targeted offer, be aware that this might involve a hard inquiry on your credit report. A hard inquiry can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points, though the impact is usually minimal and short-lived.
Step 3: Initiating the Upgrade Request
If you haven't received an offer and believe you meet the eligibility criteria, there are a few proactive steps you can take.
Sub-heading: Contacting Macy's Credit Services
The most direct way to inquire about an upgrade is to contact Macy's Credit Services.
By Phone: Call the Macy's Credit Customer Service number: 1-888-257-6757 (TTY: 711). Their hours are generally Monday - Sunday, 8 AM - 10 PM ET.
When you call, explain that you are an existing Macy's Credit Card holder and are interested in upgrading to the Macy's American Express® Card.
The representative will likely ask you some security questions to verify your identity.
They will then be able to check if you are pre-qualified for an upgrade or guide you through the application process if one is available.
Online/Macy's App (Limited Functionality for Direct Upgrade): While you can manage your existing Macy's Credit Card account online (check balance, make payments, request credit limit increases), direct upgrade options are usually not as readily available through the general online portal unless you've received a specific offer. It's still worth checking your account messages or "Offers" section, but a phone call is often more effective for initiating a direct upgrade request.
Sub-heading: Applying for a New Card vs. Upgrading
It's crucial to understand the distinction:
Upgrade: This means transitioning your existing Macy's Credit Card account to the American Express version. When you upgrade, your existing account history and original account open date will typically remain the same on your credit report. This is generally preferred as it preserves your credit history length.
Applying for a New Card: You can also apply for a Macy's American Express® Card as a completely new line of credit, even if you already have a Macy's Credit Card. If approved, you would then have two separate Macy's accounts. This will result in a new hard inquiry on your credit report and a new account opening date. While an option, it's generally less ideal than a direct upgrade if you only want the American Express version.
When contacting customer service, specifically state you are looking for an "upgrade" to avoid being guided towards a new application.
Step 4: The Application/Review Process
Once you've initiated the upgrade request, here's what to expect.
Sub-heading: Providing Information
Whether through a targeted offer or a direct request, you will likely need to confirm or provide some personal and financial information:
Annual income
Residential status (e.g., homeowner, renter)
Monthly mortgage or rent payment
Other relevant financial details as requested by the lender (Citi Retail Services, which issues the Macy's cards).
Sub-heading: Credit Decision
Instant Approval: In many cases, especially if you're pre-qualified through a targeted offer, you might receive an immediate approval decision.
Pending Review: Sometimes, the application may require further review. This means it could take a few business days (typically 7-10) for a decision to be reached. Macy's will notify you of the outcome via mail or email.
Request for More Information: In some instances, the lender might need additional information to complete their assessment. Be prepared to provide any requested documents promptly.
Sub-heading: What Happens to Your Current Card?
If your upgrade is approved, you can generally continue to use your existing Macy's Credit Card until your new Macy's American Express® Card arrives.
Your existing promotional balances and Star Rewards points will be transferred to your new card.
The Macy's Credit Card account will be automatically replaced with the new Macy's American Express® Card account on your credit report, meaning it won't add a new "open account" and will preserve your account history.
Step 5: Receiving and Activating Your New Card
The final exciting steps!
Sub-heading: Card Delivery
Once approved, your new Macy's American Express® Card will typically be mailed to you within 7-10 business days.
Sub-heading: Activation
Instructions for activating your new card will be included with the card itself. This usually involves:
Calling a specific activation number.
Activating it online through your Macy's account.
It's crucial to activate your new card as soon as you receive it.
Sub-heading: Updating Online Accounts
Once your Macy's American Express® Card is active, you may need to update your payment information on macys.com if you have it saved for online purchases.
Consider enrolling in Autopay for your new card to streamline payments and avoid missing due dates.
Step 6: Maximizing Your New Card's Benefits!
You've successfully upgraded! Now, make the most of it.
Sub-heading: Understanding Reward Categories
Familiarize yourself with the earning rates: 3% on restaurants, 2% on gas/supermarkets, and 1% everywhere else.
Strategically use your card for these bonus categories to maximize your Star Money earnings.
Sub-heading: Utilizing Amex Offers
Regularly check the Amex Offers section within your online account or the Amex app. You can add these offers to your card and earn statement credits or bonus points on eligible purchases.
These offers can range from discounts at specific retailers to cash back on travel or dining.
Sub-heading: Tracking Your Star Money
Monitor your Star Rewards points and Star Money balance on
macys.com/mystarrewards Remember that Star Money generally expires 30 days after issuance, so use it before it's gone!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Macy's Credit Card upgrade eligibility?
You can check for targeted upgrade offers by logging into your Macy's account online, checking your physical mail, and reviewing your billing statements. For direct inquiries, call Macy's Credit Customer Service at 1-888-257-6757.
How to apply for a Macy's American Express Card without an upgrade offer?
You can apply for the Macy's American Express Card as a new line of credit on macys.com. However, note that this will be a new application and not an upgrade of your existing store card, potentially leading to a new hard inquiry on your credit report.
How to contact Macy's Credit Customer Service for upgrade inquiries?
You can contact Macy's Credit Customer Service by calling 1-888-257-6757. They are available Monday - Sunday, 8 AM - 10 PM ET.
How to know if my Macy's American Express upgrade was approved?
You may receive an instant approval decision online or over the phone. If not, Macy's will typically notify you of the decision via mail or email within 7-10 business days.
How to activate my new Macy's American Express Card?
Activation instructions will be included with your new card when it arrives in the mail. This usually involves calling a specific number or activating online through your Macy's account.
How to earn Star Money with my Macy's American Express Card?
You earn 3 points per $1 spent at restaurants, 2 points per $1 spent at gas stations and supermarkets, and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else American Express is accepted. At Macy's, your earning rate depends on your Star Rewards status (Silver, Gold, Platinum). 1,000 points convert to a $10 Star Money reward.
How to use my Star Money rewards?
Star Money can be used to purchase merchandise at Macy's, Macy's Backstage, or macys.com. It cannot be exchanged for cash or used for gift cards, services, or fees.
How to check my current Star Rewards status and points balance?
You can check your Star Rewards status and points balance by logging into your account on
How to avoid an international transaction fee with my Macy's American Express Card?
The Macy's American Express Card typically charges an international transaction fee (usually 3% of the U.S. Dollar amount) on purchases submitted in a foreign currency. To avoid this, ensure transactions are processed solely in USD when abroad, if possible.
How to manage my Macy's American Express account online?
You can manage your Macy's American Express account by logging into macys.com. From there, you can view your balance, make payments, enroll in Autopay, check your credit limit, and view your Star Rewards.
