Credit Cards » Compare Credit Cards » Nordstrom vs. Macy’s Credit Card: Which Store Card Gives You The Most Value?
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Nordstrom vs. Macy’s Credit Card: Which Store Card Gives You The Most Value?

The Macy's Credit Card is a clear winner with higher points rewards ratio and higher cashback value for the same spend than Nordstrom Card
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Writer, Contributor

Experience

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor.  Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more.

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Interest Rates Last Update: July 27, 2024
The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.
  • Article update: February 6, 2024
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Writer, Contributor

Experience

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor.  Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more.

See full bio
Interest Rates Last Update: July 27, 2024

The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.
  • Article update:February 6, 2024

We earn a commission from our partner links on this page. It doesn't affect the integrity of our unbiased, independent editorial staff. Transparency is a core value for us, read our advertiser disclosure and how we make money.

When deciding on a credit card that enhances your rewards for clothing purchases, the Nordstrom and Macy's Credit Card emerge as noteworthy options. While both cards seek to attract shoppers with appealing perks, a closer examination reveals differences that could influence your choice.

General Comparison

The Nordstrom's credit card, issued by TD Bank,  is a solid choice if you prioritize high-end fashion and exceptional customer service. With this card, you gain early access to sales events, allowing you to snag the latest trends before the general public. Additionally, Nordstrom's commitment to outstanding customer experiences means you'll enjoy perks like free alterations and personal stylists.

On the other hand, the Macy's Credit Card, issued by Citibank, introduces a nuanced rewards system with a tiered rewards structure. Shoppers earn a higher points rewards ratio in various categories, including dining, groceries, and gas.

In addition, there are additional perks such a discounts, surprise savings, and even free shipping events. For frequent Macy's shoppers, this intricate rewards program might result in more substantial long-term advantages.

macy amex card

Nordstrom Rewards Visa
Macy's Credit Card
Nordstrom Credit Card
Annual Fee
$0
$0
Rewards
spend $1,200 or more annually to get 5X points per dollar on purchases made at Macy's, 3X points if you spend $500 to $1199 and 2X points if you spend up to $500. Also, get 3X points at restaurants including delivery, 2X at gas stations & supermarkets and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else
2X points per dollar spent at Nordstrom and its brands, including Nordstrom Rack, and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome bonus
25% discount on Macy's on the day you are approved and the following day, up to $100
$10 Nordstrom Note for Members and Influencers. $20 Nordstrom Notefor Ambassadors and Icons.
Foreign Transaction Fee
3%
$0
Purchase APR
31.99% variable
18.90% – 25.90%
Read Review
Read Review
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers From Our Partners

Amex gold
Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards
Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review
Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.

Cashback Analysis: Which Card Gives More?

Based on our analysis, the Macy's credit card is a clear winner as it offers a higher points rewards ratio on most categories and will drive you more cashback:

macy amex card

Nordstrom Rewards Visa
Spend Per Category
Macy's Credit Card
Nordstrom Credit Card
$15,000 – U.S Supermarkets
30,000 points
15,000 points
$5,000 – Macy's/Nordstorm
25,000 points
15,000 points
$5,000 – Restaurants
15,000 points
5,000 points
$4,000 – Travel
4,000 points
4,000 points
$4,000 – Gas
8,000 points
4,000 points
Total Points / Cashback
82,000 points
43,000 points
Estimated Redemption Value
1 point ~ 1 cent
1 point ~ 1 cent
Estimated Annual Value
$820
$430

Additional Shopping Benefits: Comparison

When you apply and are approved for a Nordstrom credit card, you will be automatically enrolled in The Nordy Club and receive Influencer status. As we can see, both cards offer extra perks for shoppers:

Macy's Credit Card

macy amex card

  • Star Passes: Exclusive savings reserved for cardholders, providing special discounts on purchases.

  • Star Money Bonus Days: During these exclusive periods, cardholders can accelerate their rewards accumulation, making their shopping experiences more rewarding.

  • Birthday Surprise: Cardholders receive a delightful birthday surprise as a token of appreciation.

  • Member Exclusives: Enjoy bonus points when shopping for your favorite brands and other exclusive perks available only to cardholders.

  • Free Shipping at Macy’s with your card:

    • Silver Tier: Free shipping on purchases of $25 or more.
    • Gold & Platinum Tiers: Enjoy free shipping with no minimum purchase requirement, enhancing the convenience of online shopping for cardholders.
Nordstrom Credit Card

Nordstrom Rewards Visa

  • Free Two-Day Shipping: Nordstrom cardholders enjoy free two-day shipping in selected areas, ensuring quick and convenient delivery of their purchases.
  • First To Shop: Being among the first to shop select brands gives cardholders an exclusive opportunity to access the latest trends before the general public.
  • Early Access To Sales: Early access to sales allows Nordstrom credit card users to capitalize on discounts and secure sought-after items ahead of regular customers.
  • Alterations Nordstrom Notes: The card offers up to $300 in Nordstrom Notes, which can be utilized for alterations on items purchased with the Nordstrom credit card.
  • Personal Double Points Days: Nordstrom credit cardholders can select up to four personal double points days, enabling them to earn double points on qualifying purchases on a day of their choice.
  • Exclusive Events: Exclusive events are crafted for Nordy Club members, providing unique and enjoyable experiences tailored for those holding a Nordstrom credit card.

When You Might Prefer The Nordstrom Credit Card?

You might prefer the Nordstrom Credit Card If:

  • High-End Fashion Enthusiasts: If you love indulging in luxury brands and desire early access to their latest collections, Nordstrom's credit card offers you the exclusive privilege of being among the first to shop these high-end styles.
  • Frequent Alterations Needs: For those who appreciate tailored fits and alterations, Nordstrom's credit card, with its up to $300 in Nordstrom Notes for alterations, provides added value, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize personalized adjustments to their purchases.
  • Quality Over Quantity Preferrer: Nordstrom focuses on premium materials and craftsmanship, offering a more curated selection of well-made clothing and accessories compared to Macy's broader range.
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers From Our Partners

Amex gold
Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards
Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review
Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.

When You Might Prefer The Macy's Credit Card?

You might prefer the Macy's Credit Card If:

  • Better Points Rewards Ratio: Macy's credit card offer higher points per dollar in almost every category. Based on our analysis, the total annual cashback for cardholders is much higher compared to Nordstrom.

  • More Diverse Product Selection: Macy's offers a wider range of products compared to Nordstrom, including home goods, furniture, and electronics, catering to various needs beyond just clothing and accessories.

  • Private Label Fan: Macy's has a strong presence with its own private label brands like INC International Concepts and Charter Club, offering quality products at lower prices compared to Nordstrom's designer labels.

Compare The Alternatives

If you're looking for a store credit card with great rewards for online shopping – there are some good alternatives you may want to consider:

Citi-costco-anywhere-visa-credit-card review

Apple card

Sam's Club® Mastercard®
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Apple Credit Card
Sam's Club® Mastercard®
Annual Fee
$0 ($60 Costco membership fee required)
$0
$0 ($50/$110 for Club/Plus membership – MUST)
Rewards
1-4% 4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases
1% – 3% 3% cash back at Apple and select Apple pay partners. 3% Daily Cash back at Ace Hardware, Duane Reade, Exxon, Mobil, Nike, Panera Bread, T-Mobile, Uber, Uber Eats, and Walgreens. 2% on other Apple pay purchases, and 1% on all other purchases
1-5% 5% cash back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1% after), 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members, 3% on dining and takeout and 1% on all other purchases
Welcome bonus
None None
N/A
None $30 statement credit after making $30 in Sam’s Club purchases within the first 30 days
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
$0
N/A
Purchase APR
20.49% (Variable)
15.99% – 26.99% Variable
20.40% or 28.40% Variable
Read Review
Learn More
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Learn More
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Compare Macy's Credit Card

The Target RedCard is our winner especially if you focus on groceries and dining, with much better cashback rates than Macy's Credit Card.

Target Red Card vs. Macy's Credit Card: What Store Card Offers The Highest Rewards?

The Macy's Credit Card is a clear winner with higher points rewards ratio and overall cashback value for the same spend than JCPenney Card.

Macy’s vs. JCPenney Credit Card: Which Gives You The Most Value?

Unlike Kohl's card, the Macy's Credit Card offers points rewards on all categories, making it more attractive for the average consumer.

Macy's Credit Card vs Kohl's Charge Card by Capital One: Which One Wins?

Compare Nordstrom Credit Card

T.J.Maxx is our winner as it offers better cashback rates on its stores than Nordstrom, but Nordstrom wins when it comes to shopping benefits.

T.J.Maxx Rewards Platinum Mastercard vs Nordstrom Credit Card

Since JCPenney Credit Card offers rewards only on its brand store, the Nordstrom Credit Card takes the lead with higher annual cashback value.

Nordstrom vs. JCPenney Credit Card: Which Gives You The Most Value?

Kohl's card wins on retail brand cashback, offering higher value than Nordstrom. But Nordstrom also offers points on other categories.

Nordstrom Credit Card vs Kohl’s Charge Card by Capital One: Which Shopping Card Is Best?

Picture of Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor.  Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more.
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Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Credit Card Reviews Methodology

In order to determine the best possible credit cards, we look at things like fees, interest rates and rewards. We do this with companies that are associated with us as partners as well as other offerings. From there, we make a decision about what the best card is related to different categories and needs. We focus on interest rate cost & fees, especially the cost of carrying a balance, rewards – cards accumulate rewards in different currencies—points, miles, cash back—and their values vary widely usability – cards that accept a wide range of credit profiles and offer simple solutions for things like checking your credit score or contacting. We also consider customer reviews.

We look at cards related to good or excellent credit ratings that will then provide a range of different benefits and improvements for someone who has these scores. We also look at low fees when it comes to those who have lower credit scores.

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The Smart Investor (this website) is an independent financial website. The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website may receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). The Smart Investor does not include all companies or all offers available in the marketplace and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete.

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