What Michaels payment methods are available
Michaels accepts most major credit cards, debit cards, and digital payment methods both in stores and online. You can pay with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. The store also takes Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal if you're shopping online or at a register with a contactless reader.
Michaels also offers its own branded credit card through Synchrony Bank. This card works only at Michaels and Michaels.com, and it comes with rewards on purchases. You can use it to pay for in-store purchases, online orders, and services like custom framing.
If you don't have a card, you can pay with cash at any Michaels location. The store does not currently offer layaway or payment plans through third-party services like Affirm or Klarna, though this may vary by location or change over time.
Key Takeaways
- Michaels accepts all major credit and debit cards, plus digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay both online and in stores.
- The Michaels credit card is issued by Synchrony Bank and earns rewards on purchases, but only works at Michaels locations and Michaels.com.
- You can explore for the Michaels card in-store or online, and approval decisions usually come within minutes for online applications.
- Cash payments are accepted at all physical Michaels stores, and you can also pay by phone or online using any major payment method.
How the Michaels credit card works
The Michaels credit card is a store card that earns rewards points on every purchase. The exact rewards rate and benefits change periodically, so you should check Michaels.com or ask in-store for the current offer. Typically, cardholders earn points that can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
The card is issued and managed by Synchrony Bank, which handles billing, payments, and customer service. You receive a monthly statement either by mail or email, depending on your preference. Payments can be made online through your Synchrony account, by phone, by mail, or in-store at Michaels.
Interest rates and credit limits vary based on your credit history and income. The card carries an annual percentage rate (APR) that Synchrony will disclose when you receive your card agreement. Like most store cards, the Michaels card typically has a higher APR than general-purpose credit cards, so carrying a balance can become expensive quickly.
How to open a Michaels credit card account
You can start an process in-store or online at Michaels.com. In-store, a cashier can hand you an process or direct you to a kiosk. Online, you'll find the card offer on the Michaels website, usually near the top of the homepage or in the account section.
The process asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, income, and employment information. You'll also choose whether you want paper or electronic statements. The entire process takes about five to ten minutes.
Synchrony will make a credit inquiry, which may temporarily lower your credit score by a few points. If you're approved, you'll receive a decision when ready online or within a few minutes in-store. If approved online, your card ships to your address within seven to ten business days. In-store approvals sometimes allow you to use the card that day for a discount on your current purchase, though this varies.
Paying your Michaels card bill
Payments are due by the date shown on your monthly statement, typically 21 to 25 days after your billing cycle ends. You can pay online through your Synchrony account by logging in at Synchrony.com or through the Synchrony mobile app. You can also pay by phone by calling the number on the back of your card.
Mail payments should be sent to the address printed on your statement. Allow at least one week for a mailed payment to reach Synchrony and post to your account. In-store payments at Michaels are also an option — ask a cashier or customer service associate how to make a payment at the register.
If you miss a payment, Synchrony will charge a late fee and may report the missed payment to credit bureaus, which can harm your credit score. Setting up automatic payments through your Synchrony account prevents accidental late payments. You can choose to pay the full balance, the minimum amount due, or any amount in between.
Rewards and promotions on the Michaels card
Michaels cardholders earn rewards points on purchases made with the card. The rewards rate and redemption value change throughout the year, so the value of your points depends on when you shop and when you redeem. Michaels frequently runs promotions offering bonus points on certain purchase amounts or during specific sale periods.
Cardholders also receive early access to sales and special discounts that are not available to non-cardholders. The store sometimes offers bonus points for opening a new card account, though this offer varies. You can check your current points balance and redemption options by logging into your Synchrony account or asking in-store.
Points do not expire as long as your account remains open and active. However, if your account is closed for inactivity or nonpayment, you may lose your points. Redeeming points is straightforward — you can use them at checkout in-store or online by selecting the redemption option during payment.
What to do if you have trouble with your Michaels card
If you forget your Synchrony password, you can reset it online at Synchrony.com by clicking "Forgot Password" and following the prompts. If you can't access your account online, call the customer service number on the back of your card to speak with a representative.
If you notice a charge you don't recognize, contact Synchrony when ready. You can dispute the charge online through your account or by calling customer service. Synchrony will investigate and may issue a temporary credit while they look into the matter.
If your card is lost or stolen, call Synchrony right away to report it. They will cancel the card and send you a replacement, usually within seven to ten business days. You are not responsible for fraudulent charges made after you report the card missing, as long as you report it promptly.
Other ways to pay at Michaels
Beyond the Michaels card, you have several payment options. All major credit cards — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover — are accepted in-store and online. Debit cards work the same way as credit cards at the register.
Digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay work at any Michaels register with a contactless reader. Online, you can also pay with PayPal if you have an account. These methods are faster than entering card details manually and offer the same fraud protection as the card itself.
Gift cards are another payment option if you have them. Michaels sells gift cards in various denominations, and you can use them to pay for purchases in-store or online. You can also check your gift card balance on Michaels.com or ask a cashier in-store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Michaels card at other stores?
No. The Michaels credit card only works at Michaels stores and Michaels.com. It cannot be used at other retailers. If you need a card that works everywhere, you would need a general-purpose credit card from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover instead.
What happens if I don't pay my Michaels card bill?
Synchrony will charge a late fee and report the missed payment to credit bureaus, which lowers your credit score. Your interest rate may increase, and Synchrony may freeze your account or close it. The unpaid balance will continue to accrue interest until you pay it off.
How long does it take to get approved for the Michaels card?
Online applications usually receive an approval decision within minutes. In-store applications may take a few minutes at the register. If Synchrony needs more information, they may contact you by phone or email, which can take a few business days.
Can I return items bought with the Michaels card?
Yes. Michaels return policy applies regardless of how you paid. You can return most items within 30 days with a receipt. The refund will go back to the payment method you used — if you paid with your Michaels card, the refund posts to that card account.
What is the credit limit on the Michaels card?
Your credit limit depends on your credit score, income, and credit history. Synchrony sets the limit when you open the account and may increase it over time if you use the card responsibly. You can request a credit limit increase by logging into your Synchrony account or calling customer service.