The Best Store Credit Cards for January 2024

You’ve probably been approached at the register and tempted with a store credit card offer. Did you take the bait? Store credit cards may not be for everyone, but they can be great for some. Whether you’re looking for bonus cash at your favorite stores or 0% APR opportunities for large purchases, a store card might be a perfect fit. However, it’s essential to compare them to non-store cards to ensure that you’re making the right choice for your spending habits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best store credit cards available to help you find the perfect option.

Best Store Credit Cards Compared 2024

Our Recommendations for the Best Store Credit Card

Best for Simon Mall Shoppers: Simon® American Express® Credit Card

The Simon® American Express® Credit Card is the perfect cashback tool for mall addicts. Not only will you earn $150 back after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first 90 days from account opening, but you’ll also enjoy these benefits:

• 5% back in-store at participating retailers such as JCPenney, Aeropostale, Forever 21, Eddie Bauer, and more.
• 5% back for online purchases at select online shops.
• 3% back on purchases with other retailers at any Simon Mall, Mills, or Premium Outlet in the U.S.
• 1% back on all other eligible purchases.

Additionally, you’ll earn statement credits of up to 10% when purchasing gift cards with merchants like Gap and Banana Republic. To maximize your savings, you’ll also have access to Amex Offers, which are targeted statement credits and bonus rewards incentives that you can add to your card through your online account.

Best for Disney Fanatics: Disney® Premier Visa® Card

The Disney® Premier Visa® Card is a must-have for Disney fanatics who spend a significant amount of money with the brand. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice:

• 10% discount on various Disney shopping, including shopDisney.com and merchandise at Walt Disney World.
• Rewards redeemable only for Disney purchases and airfare.
• Special financing options for select Disney packages.

With this card, you’ll earn Disney Reward Dollars on everyday purchases. You’ll get 5% back on purchases made directly with DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or ESNPlus.com, 2% back at gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and most Disney U.S. locations, and 1% back on all other eligible purchases. Although the card charges an annual fee, you’ll earn a $300 statement credit after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first three months, making it worth considering for Disney enthusiasts.

Best for Grocery Delivery: Instacart Mastercard

If you frequently order groceries online, the Instacart Mastercard is the perfect choice. With this card, you’ll earn cash back on various purchases:

• 5% cash back through the Instacart app and on Instacart.com.
• 5% cash back on travel reserved through the Chase Travel Portal.
• 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations, and select streaming services.
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Additionally, you’ll receive a $100 Instacart credit and a free year of Instacart+ membership after opening your credit card account. With Instacart+, you’ll enjoy free delivery for purchases over $35, lower service fees, and a 5% credit when you choose to pick up your shopping. The Instacart+ membership is typically $99 per year.

Best for Amazon/Whole Foods Purchases: Prime Visa

The Prime Visa is one of the most versatile cash back credit cards you can own. With a focus on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases, you’ll earn the following rewards:

• 5% cash back with Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods.
• 5% cash back via the Chase Travel Portal.
• 2% cash back at gas stations, restaurants, and local transit and commuting.
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Additionally, you’ll earn 10% back or more for select products through the “Prime Card Bonus” perk. While there is no annual fee for this card, it is only available to Amazon Prime members. If you don’t have a Prime membership, you’ll only be eligible for the less-premium Amazon Visa with inferior earning rates.

Best for Gas Stations: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

The Costco Anywhere Visa Card is surprisingly useful outside of Costco. Its standout feature is earning 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging (up to $7,000 in spending per year, then 1%). You’ll also earn:

• 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel, including Costco travel.
• 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com.
• 1% cash back on everything else.

While this card doesn’t offer a public bonus, you may be targeted for special offers when applying in-store. Additionally, you can only redeem your cash back once per year after your February statement closes, and you can use it for cash or free merchandise at Costco warehouses within the U.S.

Best for Food Delivery: DoorDash Rewards Mastercard

For avid food delivery users, the DoorDash Rewards Mastercard can help you save on service fees and tips. With this card, you’ll enjoy the following benefits:

• Free year of DashPass (normally $96 annually) after account opening, which includes $0 restaurant delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible DoorDash orders.
• 5% cash back on DoorDash and Caviar orders.
• 3% cash back on dining when purchased directly from a restaurant.
• 2% cash back on grocery stores online or in-store.
• 1% cash back on all other purchases.

This no-annual-fee card offers an above-average return for dining, whether you eat at the restaurant or order delivery.

Best for Apple Purchases: Apple Card

Although it doesn’t have groundbreaking rewards, the Apple Card offers some unique features. With the Apple Card, you’ll earn “Daily Cash,” which is effectively cash back that can be redeemed for a statement credit on your card or used within the Apple universe. The card earns:

• 3% back at Apple when you use Apple Pay.
• 3% back at select partner merchants, including Nike, Panera, Walgreens, T-Mobile, and more.
• 2% back on all purchases when you use Apple Pay.
• 1% back on all other eligible purchases.

Additionally, the Apple Card allows you to set up monthly installments for Apple purchases, offering interest-free financing.

Best for Home Renovations: Lowe’s Advantage Card

The Lowe’s Advantage Card is perfect for anyone undertaking home renovations. This no-annual-fee card offers generous rewards for in-store purchases:

• 20% off (up to $100) on your first purchase as an introductory offer.
• 5% back on eligible purchases made on Lowes.com and in U.S. Lowe’s stores.
• Special financing options for qualifying purchases.

You can choose to forgo the 5% return and opt for special six-month financing or 84 fixed monthly payments at a reduced APR of 9.99%. This card is particularly useful for individuals who purchase their own materials for home renovations.

Best for Walmart Purchases: Capital One Walmart Rewards® Card

The Capital One Walmart Rewards Card is an exceptional choice for frequent Walmart shoppers. With this card, you’ll earn:

• 5% cash back at Walmart.com (including pickup and delivery).
• 2% cash back in Walmart stores, at restaurants, and for travel.
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

As a welcome bonus, you’ll receive 5% cash back at Walmart stores for the first 12 months of account opening when using the card with Walmart Pay. The card also offers travel and purchase insurances and cellphone protection for World Elite Mastercard holders.

Best for Electronics Purchases: My Best Buy® Visa® Card

The My Best Buy Visa Card is an excellent choice for electronics enthusiasts who frequently shop at Best Buy. With this card, you’ll earn:

• 5% back on Best Buy purchases.
• 3% back on gas purchases.
• 2% back on dining and grocery purchases.
• 1% back on all other eligible purchases.

The rewards earned with this card can only be redeemed for items at Best Buy. Special financing options are also available, offering interest-free windows between 12 and 36 months, depending on your purchase. However, be cautious with the terms and conditions, as this card charges a variable interest rate above 30% and may have an annual fee based on your creditworthiness.

Our Methodology

We examined store credit cards based on their return rate, complimentary memberships, special financing options, welcome bonuses, and annual fees. We also considered the availability and ubiquity of each store. Only store credit cards with widespread appeal and valuable benefits were included in our recommendations.

How to Pick the Best Store Credit Cards

To choose the best store credit card for you, it’s essential to identify your spending habits, weigh the benefits, and understand the fees associated with each card. Consider whether the rewards and perks offered align with your needs and preferences. Don’t forget to read the fine print and be aware of any deferred interest or high-interest rates. Alternatively, you may find that non-store credit cards offer more generous rewards and benefits that suit your overall spending habits.

More on Store Credit Cards

A store credit card differs from a store card in that it can be used anywhere, while a store card is limited to the issuing store. Store credit cards offer unique benefits specific to the merchant, but they may have limited value outside of the brand. It’s crucial to evaluate the pros and cons and determine whether a store credit card matches your spending patterns. Additionally, non-store credit cards, such as cash back or travel rewards cards, may provide more versatile rewards and higher welcome bonuses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the easiest store credit card to get with no credit?

A: If you have no credit, consider applying for a closed-loop store card that can only be used at the issuing store. The Fingerhut Credit Card is known for approving applicants with limited credit history.

Q: Which store credit cards can I get with a 580 credit score?

A: With a credit score of 580, it’s advisable to focus on improving your score before prioritizing rewards. While you may be eligible for store cards like the Fingerhut Credit Card, it’s essential to work towards achieving a higher credit score for better credit card options.

Q: Which store credit cards are hard to get?

A: Store credit cards are generally accessible and not particularly difficult to obtain. If you qualify for any other rewards credit card, you are likely eligible for store credit cards as well.

Q: Which retail stores have their own credit card?

A: Numerous retail stores offer their own credit cards, ranging from drugstores and furniture stores to giants like Walmart and clothing stores like Banana Republic. Many nationwide chains have some form of credit card available.

Remember, store credit cards are valuable when used frequently at the respective store. Make sure to carefully evaluate their benefits and terms before applying. With proper research, you may discover that non-store credit cards offer more rewarding benefits to suit your overall spending habits.