Thinking about getting the Macy's American Express® Card? You're in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how this card works, its benefits, and how to maximize your rewards. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding the Macy's American Express Card – Is it for You?
Before we go into the nitty-gritty, let's clarify what the Macy's American Express Card is and who it's designed for. Are you a frequent Macy's shopper? Do you also use a credit card for everyday expenses like dining out or filling up your car? If so, this card might offer a compelling combination of store-specific benefits and general-purpose rewards.
Unlike the standard Macy's Credit Card, which can only be used at Macy's stores and macys.com, the Macy's American Express Card offers much more flexibility. It's a co-branded card issued by Department Stores National Bank (a subsidiary of Citibank, N.A.), but it runs on the American Express payment network. This means you can use it everywhere American Express cards are accepted, not just at Macy's.
 |
| How Does Macy's American Express Card Work |
Step 2: Key Benefits and How to Earn Rewards
The core of how the Macy's American Express Card works lies in its Star Rewards program and its tiered benefits. This card is specifically designed to reward you for your spending, both inside and outside of Macy's.
Sub-heading: Earning Star Rewards Points
The Macy's American Express Card is part of the Macy's Star Rewards loyalty program. Here's how you earn points:
-
At Macy's: You earn points on almost all purchases made at Macy's, Macy's Backstage, and macys.com. The number of points you earn per dollar spent at Macy's depends on your Star Rewards status (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).
-
Bronze Status (No Macy's Card needed): 1 point per $1 spent.
-
Silver Status (New Macy's Cardholders): 2 points per $1 spent.
-
Gold Status (Spend $500-$1,199 at Macy's annually): 3 points per $1 spent.
-
Platinum Status (Spend $1,200+ at Macy's annually): 5 points per $1 spent.
Remember that your status is determined by your annual net qualifying purchases at Macy's using your Macy's Credit Card or Macy's American Express Card.
-
-
Everywhere Else (with the Macy's American Express Card): This is where the American Express aspect shines! You earn points for purchases outside of Macy's:
-
3 points per $1 spent at restaurants (including delivery services).
-
2 points per $1 spent at gas stations and supermarkets.
-
1 point per $1 spent on all other qualifying purchases where American Express is accepted.
-
Sub-heading: Redeeming Your Star Money
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Once you accumulate points, they are converted into Star Money rewards.
-
Conversion Rate: Every 1,000 points automatically convert into a $10 Star Money reward.
-
Where to Use: Star Money can be used to purchase merchandise at Macy's, Macy's Backstage, or macys.com.
-
Expiration: Star Money is valid for 30 calendar days from issuance, so make sure to use it before it expires! You'll be notified via email (if you're signed up for Macy's emails) and on your Macy's receipt when Star Money is issued. It also appears in your macys.com Wallet.
Step 3: Beyond Rewards - Additional Cardholder Perks ✨
The Macy's American Express Card isn't just about earning points. It comes with several other benefits that enhance your shopping experience and offer value.
Sub-heading: Exclusive Cardholder Benefits
-
No Annual Fee: That's right! The Macy's American Express Card typically comes with no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for earning rewards.
-
New Account Discount: When you're approved for a new Macy's American Express Card, you often receive a one-time discount (e.g., 20% off in-store, 30% off macys.com) on eligible merchandise for a limited time (e.g., the day of approval and the following day).
-
Star Passes & Bonus Days: As a cardholder, you'll receive special savings offers known as Star Passes and have access to Star Money Bonus Days, where you can earn rewards even faster.
-
Birthday Surprise: Many cardholders also receive a special birthday surprise as a token of appreciation.
-
Free Shipping at Macy's: Depending on your Star Rewards status:
-
Silver: Free shipping on purchases of $25+.
-
Gold & Platinum: Free shipping with no minimum purchase required.
-
-
Member Exclusives: Enjoy bonus points when you shop specific brands or during special promotional events.
-
Travel & Entertainment Benefits: Because it's an American Express card, you may also unlock exclusive travel and entertainment benefits and have access to Amex Offers, which provide savings on shopping, dining, and more from various merchants.
Step 4: Managing Your Macy's American Express Card
Once you have your card, managing it responsibly is key to maximizing its benefits and maintaining a healthy financial standing.
Sub-heading: Account Access and Payments
-
Online Account Management: You can manage your Macy's American Express Card account online through the Macy's website. This includes viewing statements, tracking your points, checking your balance, and making payments.
-
Payment Options:
-
Online Payments: The easiest way to pay your bill is typically through your online account.
-
Mail: You can mail payments to the address provided on your statement.
-
Phone: Payments can often be made over the phone.
-
In-Store: While it used to be common, in-store payments for credit card bills might be less universally available now, so it's always best to check with Macy's customer service or your statement.
-
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Sub-heading: Important Considerations
-
Interest Rates (APR): Like most credit cards, the Macy's American Express Card has an Annual Percentage Rate (APR). It's crucial to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges, which can be high on retail credit cards.
-
Credit Limit: Your credit limit will be determined based on your creditworthiness. Responsible use, including on-time payments and keeping your balance low, can lead to credit limit increases over time.
-
Foreign Transaction Fees: If you plan to use your Macy's American Express Card outside the USA (excluding Puerto Rico and Guam), be aware that there's typically a 3% international transaction fee on purchases and cash advances made in foreign currency.
Step 5: Comparing with the Regular Macy's Credit Card
It's important to differentiate the Macy's American Express Card from the standard Macy's Credit Card.
-
Macy's Credit Card: This is a store-specific card that can only be used for purchases at Macy's and macys.com. It also participates in the Star Rewards program, allowing you to earn points for Macy's purchases and achieve status levels.
-
Macy's American Express Card: This card offers all the benefits of the Macy's Credit Card (including Macy's-specific rewards and status) PLUS the ability to earn rewards and use the card everywhere American Express is accepted worldwide. It's essentially an upgraded version of the Macy's Credit Card.
If you're offered an upgrade from the Macy's Credit Card to the Macy's American Express Card, it generally comes with more flexibility and earning potential, often without an additional annual fee.
FAQs about the Macy's American Express Card
How to apply for a Macy's American Express Card?
You can apply for the Macy's American Express Card online through macys.com or in a Macy's store. You can often check if you prequalify without impacting your credit score.
How to check my Macy's American Express Card balance?
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
You can check your balance by logging into your online Macy's Credit Card account on macys.com, or by calling Macy's Credit Customer Service.
How to pay my Macy's American Express Card bill?
You can pay your bill online through your Macy's Credit Card account, via mail, or by phone.
How to earn Star Money with my Macy's American Express Card?
You earn points on purchases which then convert to Star Money. The earning rate depends on where you shop (Macy's vs. everywhere else) and your Star Rewards status. 1,000 points equal $10 in Star Money.
How to redeem Star Money rewards?
Star Money is automatically issued to your account once you accumulate 1,000 points and can be used on eligible purchases at Macy's stores, Macy's Backstage, and macys.com.
How to contact Macy's American Express Card customer service?
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
You can contact Macy's Credit Customer Service at 1-888-257-6757. They are generally available 7 days a week, from 8 am to 10 pm ET.
How to upgrade my Macy's Credit Card to a Macy's American Express Card?
Macy's may offer you an upgrade based on your spending and credit history. You can also inquire about an upgrade by contacting Macy's Credit Customer Service.
How to determine my Star Rewards status?
Your Star Rewards status (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum) is determined by your annual net qualifying purchases at Macy's using your Macy's Card. You can check your status online in your Macy's account.
How to avoid interest charges on my Macy's American Express Card?
To avoid interest charges, you must pay your entire statement balance in full by the due date each month.
How to use my Macy's American Express Card outside of Macy's?
Simply use your card wherever American Express cards are accepted. You'll earn points at a rate of 3x for restaurants, 2x for gas and supermarkets, and 1x for all other purchases.
 |
