Retail Credit Cards - Reviews
For many retailers, a store-branded credit card is a great way to lure in repeat shoppers as well as ensnare customers in a load of debt due to high interest rates and the temptation to spend more than they can afford.
But retail cards aren't all bad. When used responsibly, they can be a good introduction to credit for consumers with a limited credit history. And there are a few stand-outs in this category that offer great rewards programs that allow you to earn a large amount of cash back on your regular spending.
We've reviewed the most popular store cards, looking at their rewards programs, special financing deals, APRs and other perks, as well as their potential pitfalls.
Sam's Club Mastercard
Last reviewed: September 12, 2017
With the exception of ample cash back at Sam’s Club gas stations, the Sam’s Club Mastercard is best reserved for making travel and dining purchases outside the warehouse club.
BJ's Perks Elite MasterCard
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
The BJ’s Perks Elite MasterCard gives current BJ’s members a chance to save big on everyday purchases, but others who don’t already frequent BJ’s or a similar warehouse club should factor in the $100 cost of club membership when deciding whether or not the card is worth it.
AT&T Access Card from Citi
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
The AT&T Access Card from Citi is an easy way for current AT&T customers to earn points on their monthly phone, cable and internet payments. For others, it won’t be nearly as useful.
Bed Bath & Beyond Mastercard
Last reviewed: August 31, 2017
The Bed Bath & Beyond Mastercard stands out in the retail card category for its strong rewards, numerous sign-up offers and decent APR.
REI Co-op Mastercard
Last reviewed: September 22, 2017
Outdoors enthusiasts are sure to love the REI Co-op Mastercard, which offers great rewards on REI purchases and an attractive sign-up offer for new cardholders.
Walmart Mastercard
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
Bargain shoppers who spend a lot on Walmart.com could potentially earn a sizable amount of cash back with the Walmart Mastercard, but its limited rewards categories might be a deal breaker for those who aren’t already devoted to the big-box store.
Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
The value of the Costco card extends beyond Costco purchases, including a generous amount of cash back on gas, travel and restaurant purchases and some great purchase benefits, though you’re limited to redeeming your cash back once a year.
Nordstrom Visa Signature card
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
Devoted Nordstrom fans will relish the opportunity to potentially save big bucks with the Nordstrom Visa Signature card, but occasional visitors to the luxury department store should take note of the card’s low overall rewards and mediocre sign-up bonus before applying.
Barclaycard Visa with Apple Rewards
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
Apple fanatics can finance high-cost purchases using the Barclaycard Visa, but a high APR for some cardholders means they should also be vigilant about paying balances in full before the promotional period runs out.
My Best Buy Visa card from Citi
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
The My Best Buy Visa credit card makes sense for fans of the latest and greatest electronics, but casual shoppers and techies alike should beware of the card’s high interest rate, which could negate their rewards and benefits.
Sears Mastercard with Shop Your Way
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
Cardholders on the search for a retail card with a great gas bonus may appreciate the 5 percent rate that the Sears Shop Your Way MasterCard offers on gas purchases for the first 12 months, though the regular rewards rate is less than spectacular and the APR is very high.
Macy's American Express card
Last reviewed: August 30, 2017
Savvy shoppers who never miss a Macy’s One-Day Sale have the potential to win big with the department store’s co-branded American Express card, but an unsurprisingly high APR means less disciplined cardholders could find themselves in trouble when carrying a balance from month to month.
