How to Apply for a Walmart Credit Card

Are you considering applying for a Walmart Credit Card to take advantage of benefits like cash back on your Walmart purchases, special financing offers, and more? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about applying for a Walmart Credit Card, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

Understanding Walmart Credit Cards

Walmart offers two main types of credit cards: the Walmart Rewards Card and the Walmart Rewards Mastercard. Both cards offer lucrative rewards on purchases, but they have distinct differences in terms of where they can be used and the benefits they offer.

  • Walmart Rewards Card: This card can only be used at Walmart properties, including physical store locations and Walmart.com. It offers 5% cash back on purchases made at Walmart.com, including grocery pickup and delivery, and 2% back in Walmart stores.

  • Walmart Rewards Mastercard: This card can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. It offers the same benefits as the Walmart Rewards Card, but also allows for purchases outside of Walmart, providing additional rewards opportunities for gas and dining, for instance.

The rewards programs linked with both cards can help you save significantly, but it's important to evaluate your spending habits to decide which card suits you best.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet the following basic eligibility requirements:

  1. Residency: You must be a U.S. resident.
  2. Age: You should be at least 18 years old, or 19 in some states.
  3. Credit Score: While Walmart does not explicitly specify a required credit score, a fair to good credit score (generally 640 and above) increases the likelihood of approval.
  4. Income: You must have a steady income source, which you'll need to report on your application.
  5. Bank Account: Having a U.S. bank account can facilitate easy payment options and improve your credit card management efficiency.

Preparing to Apply

Information You'll Need

When you're ready to apply, gather the following information:

  • Personal Information: Your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
  • Contact Information: A valid mailing address, phone number, and email address.
  • Employment Information: Employment status, employer’s name, and potentially financial details like your annual income.
  • Bank Information: Details of any existing bank accounts could be useful, particularly for setting up automatic payments.

Reviewing Your Credit Report

Before applying for any credit card, it’s wise to check your credit report. You can obtain a free report once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This step helps ensure that there are no errors that could impact your approval chances.

Steps to Apply for a Walmart Credit Card

1. Decide Where to Apply

You can apply for a Walmart Credit Card online through the official Walmart website, or you can visit a Walmart store and apply in person at the Customer Service Desk.

2. Applying Online

Follow these steps to apply online:

  1. Visit the Walmart Credit Card page on the official Walmart website.
  2. Choose Your Card: Decide between the Walmart Rewards Card and Walmart Rewards Mastercard.
  3. Fill Out the Application: Enter the required personal, contact, and financial information. Make sure the information is accurate to avoid delays.
  4. Review Terms and Conditions: Carefully read the terms and conditions, including fees, interest rates, and rewards details.
  5. Submit Your Application: Once all information is entered and reviewed, submit the application.
  6. Receive Your Decision: You may receive an immediate decision, or Walmart may request further review which could take several days.

3. Applying In-Store

If you prefer face-to-face interaction, consider applying in-store:

  1. Visit Customer Service: Go to the service desk at any Walmart store.
  2. Request an Application: Ask a customer service representative for assistance with applying for a Walmart Credit Card.
  3. Complete and Submit: Fill out the application with assistance from the representative, and submit it.
  4. Receive Your Decision: Similar to the online process, you may receive immediate approval or a follow-up notification.

Benefits and Rewards Overview

Once you have your Walmart credit card, it’s important to use it wisely to maximize benefits:

  • Introductory Offers: Sometimes, Walmart provides special intro offers, like 5% back on in-store purchases when using Walmart Pay for the first 12 months.
  • Cash Back: Earn 5% back on Walmart.com purchases and 2% in Walmart stores.
  • Gas and Dining Rewards: With the Mastercard, earn 2% back on restaurant and travel purchases and 1% everywhere else.

Managing Your Walmart Credit Card

  1. Mobile App: Use the Walmart app to track your rewards, view statements, and make payments.
  2. Online Services: Sign up for online account management to view transactions, pay bills, and request credit line increases.
  3. Regular Payments: To avoid interest and maintain a good credit score, pay your balance in full monthly and on time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Should I Do if My Application Is Denied?

If your credit card application is denied, review the reasons provided. You may need to improve your credit score or correct inaccuracies in your credit report before reapplying.

Can I Upgrade from a Walmart Rewards Card to a Walmart Rewards Mastercard?

Yes, you may be eligible for an upgrade after demonstrating a history of responsible use with your Walmart Rewards Card.

How Quickly Can I Start Using My Walmart Credit Card?

Once approved, you may receive a temporary shopping pass to use immediately for Walmart purchases, with your physical card arriving by mail in 7-10 days.

Conclusion

Applying for a Walmart Credit Card provides an opportunity to make the most of your shopping experience through rewards and special offers. By understanding the types of cards available, meeting eligibility requirements, and following the application steps closely, you can position yourself to enjoy the financial benefits these cards offer. For more detailed information on managing credit and maximizing your benefits, explore additional resources on our site.