If you’ve ever shopped at a retail clothing store, you’ve probably been enticed by an employee to sign up for their store credit card. While these cards can offer several benefits, they may also come with high fees and limitations. Today, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Kohl’s Charge Card to determine if it’s a worthwhile addition to your wallet.
TIME’s Take on the Kohl’s Charge Card
The Kohl’s Charge Card offers 7.5% cash back on every purchase, with an additional 35% back on your first purchase. While this may sound enticing, you can earn 5% cash back simply by signing up for Kohl’s Rewards. The Kohl’s Charge Card does come with some extra perks, but its high APR makes it difficult to recommend for anyone other than devoted Kohl’s customers.
Who is the card for?
The Kohl’s Card is perfect for frequent Kohl’s shoppers, offering exclusive discounts, special offers, and promotions. However, it’s most suitable for those who pay off their balances in full every month. With a variable 30.74% APR, carrying a balance on this card can be costly. It may also be beneficial for building credit, as the card can give your credit score a boost if used responsibly.
Kohl’s Charge Card Review Summary: Pros & Cons
Pros
- High cash back rate on in-store purchases
- Possible to stack Kohl’s Card discounts with Kohl’s Cash®
- No membership fees
Cons
- Can’t use outside Kohl’s stores
- High regular APR
- Limited redemption dates for Kohl’s Cash
Rewards Structure
The Kohl’s Charge Card offers a straightforward rewards structure:
- 7.5% cash back on every purchase
- 35% off your first purchase within 14 days of card approval
- $10 for every $50 spent during Kohl’s Cash earn periods
- Extra savings coupons
- Receipt-free returns on purchases
- Monthly free shipping opportunities
You can also combine Kohl’s Card benefits with Kohl’s Cash, allowing you to maximize your savings during earning periods.
Additional Hidden Perks
The Kohl’s Charge Card occasionally offers hidden perks as part of limited-time promotions. These perks can include exclusive discounts on purchases, special anniversary offers, and bonus rewards for specific spending categories or items. These offers are often communicated through mailers, so keep an eye out for them.
What Could Be Improved
One major limitation of the Kohl’s Charge Card is its restricted usability—it can only be used in Kohl’s stores. This means you can’t earn cash back or use the card elsewhere. Additionally, the card lacks some benefits found in other credit cards, such as the ability to transfer points to travel partners. The regular APR of 30.74% is also relatively high, making it costly to carry a balance.
Comparing Alternatives to the Kohl’s Charge Card
If the Kohl’s Charge Card doesn’t meet your needs, there are several alternatives to consider. For example, Costco offers great benefits for customers who spend a lot on gas, electric vehicle charging, and dining out. Explore different options to find the card that aligns with your specific preferences and lifestyle.
Bottom Line
The Kohl’s Charge Card provides 7.5% cash back on every purchase, a 35% discount on your first purchase, and other promotions and discounts. However, it has a high APR and can only be used in Kohl’s stores. It lacks additional benefits, such as free shipping. While this card may be a good choice for regular Kohl’s customers, individuals seeking a more well-rounded credit card may find better options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I apply for the Kohl’s Credit Card?
- What credit score do I need for the Kohl’s Credit Card?
- How can I qualify for Kohl’s Credit Card pre-approval?
- Where can I check my Kohl’s Credit Card application status?
- How do I make a Kohl’s Credit Card payment?
- What is the customer service phone number for Kohl’s Credit Card?
- How much is the starting Kohl’s Credit Card credit limit?
- How do I check my Kohl’s Credit Card balance?
Remember, the Kohl’s Charge Card review presented here is independent of the TIME editorial staff. For more information, visit the Personal Finances Blog website.