Macy’s Rolls Out New Rewards, and You Don’t Need a Credit Card to Join

ScoreCard Research

Shoppers who don’t want to open yet another credit card to access store rewards have a new option at Macy’s.

The department store announced this month that the Star Rewards program now includes a bronze level that all shoppers can access, regardless of their method of payment.

Bronze-level members are eligible for Star Money Days, special offers and mysterious birthday surprises. Star Money Days allow customers to earn bonus points on their purchases. Earn 1,000 points and redeem them for $10 in Star Money, which can be used without merchandise exclusions for 30 days.

Customers can enroll online, in stores or through the Macy’s app.

Is Bronze Star Rewards Macy’s Replacement for Plenti?

Macy’s announcement comes shortly after the news that rewards program Plenti is ending this summer. Macy’s was one of the initial partners in the program, which allowed shoppers who earned 1,000 points at any Plenti retailer to exchange them for $10 at a participating store of their choice. Macy’s dropped out of the Plenti program this spring.

American Express services both Plenti and Macy’s credit cards. The silver, gold and platinum rewards levels are reserved for credit card users, who receive discounts, free shipping and other rewards depending on their spending level.  

Macy’s announced in January that it would close 11 stores. Since 2015, the chain has closed more than 120 locations, CNBC reports.

The company has been adding Macy’s Backstage discount departments to existing stores — and a few standalone locations — since 2015.

Lisa Rowan is a senior writer covering the retail and grocery industries at The Penny Hoarder.