The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Earning Rewards at Macy’s

Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or picking out the perfect holiday gift, earning rewards at Macy’s makes shopping more rewarding. The Macy’s Star Rewards program lets loyal shoppers earn perks, points and Star Money that add up to real savings. And when you pair that with Rakuten Cash Back, you can double up on the value. This 2026 guide walks you through how to get started, pick the right credit card and time your purchases for big wins. Let’s unlock every possible perk at America’s favorite department store.

Understanding Macy’s Star Rewards program

Macy’s Star Rewards is a free, tiered loyalty program that rewards frequent shoppers with points, perks and Star Money, which is redeemable like store credit for nearly anything at Macy’s. The more you spend, the higher your tier and the more benefits you unlock.

Every Macy’s shopper can enjoy rewards, but Platinum members truly shine. They earn 5% back every day with free shipping on every order, with no merchandise exclusions.

Enrollment and registration

Joining Star Rewards is simple and free. You can sign up on the Macy’s website, through the Macy’s app or in-store at checkout. Once you’re registered, you’ll start in the Bronze tier if you don’t hold a Macy’s card. Cardholders are enrolled automatically and placed into Silver, Gold or Platinum tiers based on their annual spend. Upgrades are processed within about 30 days of qualifying.

How to get started:

1. Go to macys.com/rewards or open the Macy’s app.
2. Create an account or log in to your existing Macy’s account.
3. Opt in to Star Rewards to activate your membership.
4. Apply for a Macy’s card (optional) to instantly unlock higher tiers.
5. Use your account dashboard to track your tier progress.

Earning and redemption essentials

Star Rewards tiers are earned based on your annual Macy’s spend, and each level increases your perks and earning power. Platinum members earn five points per $1 spent (5% back in Star Money) every day, while other tiers earn points during bonus events such as Star Money Days. Star Money functions like store credit; it’s redeemable on most merchandise and expires 30 days after issue.

• Redemption value: $10 Star Money per 1,000 points
• Best for: Full‑price or rarely discounted items; stack with sales and coupons when possible
• Expiration: 30 days from issue; track dates in your dashboard or app

Timing purchases for bonus Star Money events

Macy’s Star Money Days are limited-time events during which you can earn points faster on eligible purchases. The promotions often align with major shopping seasons such as:

• Back to school (typically July and August)
• Holiday sales (Black Friday and Cyber Week)
• Macy’s Anniversary and Star Pass events
• Seasonal clearance events

The events are announced via the Macy’s app, email alerts or your online dashboard. Planning ahead can pay off. Many shoppers start seasonal purchases early, and being proactive means more bonus Star Money.

Managing your rewards in the Macy’s app

The Macy’s app is your rewards hub. Through it, you can:

• Track your Star Rewards balance
• Redeem Star Money instantly
• Access your Macy’s credit card or make payments
• Browse personalized promotions

Enable notifications and email alerts to catch exclusive Star Pass offers, Bonus Days and birthday surprises. The offers are often personalized for engaged members, so keeping them on ensures that you’ll never miss extra Star Money.

Smart redemption strategies

• Use Star Money toward full-price or rarely discounted items.
• Stack redemption with major sales or promotions.
• Combine it with Macy’s coupons for extra savings.
• Keep an eye on expiration dates so nothing goes to waste.

Choosing the right Macy’s credit card

Macy’s offers two main cards, each designed for different shopping habits. Here’s how they compare.

• Macy’s store card: Use it only at Macy’s, earn Star Rewards points and qualify for Silver, Gold or Platinum tiers based on your annual spending.
• Macy’s American Express card: Use it anywhere Amex is accepted, and earn extra rewards beyond Macy’s purchases.

If you spend broadly on restaurants or groceries, the Amex version pays off. But if Macy’s is your happy place, the store card keeps things simple and reward-rich.

Everyday categories with the Macy’s American Express Card

The Macy’s American Express card doubles as an everyday rewards tool outside Macy’s stores. Here’s the breakdown:

Note: These rates are subject to change, so make sure to double-check before you make a purchase. Gas purchases at superstores or warehouse clubs don’t count toward the 2% rate.

By routing everyday expenses such as dining and fuel through the Amex card, you’ll accumulate points even faster. It’s an easy way to keep Star Money flowing between your Macy’s shopping trips.

Earning Rakuten Cash Back on Macy’s purchases

Shopping at Macy’s through Rakuten lets you stack Cash Back with Macy’s Star Rewards for double the value. It’s simple:

• Start at Rakuten’s website, the Rakuten app or the Rakuten browser extension before you shop at Macy’s.
• Look for the Cash Back rate at Macy’s and click Shop Now to ensure that your visit is tracked.
• Complete your purchase as usual. Eligible orders earn Rakuten Cash Back in addition to any Star Rewards points or Star Money you earn from Macy’s.
• Combine with Macy’s coupons and promotions for maximum savings.

Pro tip: During major events such as Black Friday, Cyber Week and seasonal clearance sales, Rakuten often features elevated Cash Back. It’s perfect for stacking with Macy’s Star Money Days.

Practical tips to boost Macy’s rewards earnings

Ready to level up? These easy hacks can help you earn and save like a pro.

1. Shop Macy’s through Rakuten. Earn Cash Back on top of Macy’s Star Rewards for double the savings. Rakuten makes it effortless. Just shop through Rakuten.com, the Rakuten app or the Rakuten browser extension.
2. Bundle big buys during Star Money Days for faster progress to your next tier.
3. Keep your notifications on, since exclusive promos often land in emails or app alerts first.
4. Use your Macy’s credit card strategically, especially if you’re chasing tier upgrades or limited-time events.
5. Plan ahead for holiday and back-to-school shopping, when bonus Star Money multipliers peak.
6. Stack coupons and rewards wisely using Star Money plus Macy’s discounts and Rakuten Cash Back for maximum value.

Savvy shoppers combine timing, tools and rewards programs to get more from every Macy’s run, and Rakuten makes the whole experience even more rewarding.

Frequently asked questions about Macy’s rewards

What are the Star Rewards tiers, and how do I qualify?

Macy’s Star Rewards tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum) are based on your annual Macy’s spend. Higher levels feature bigger savings and perks.

How do I earn Star Money points?

You earn points on eligible Macy’s purchases. Platinum members earn daily, while other tiers earn during bonus events.

How do I redeem Star Money, and does it expire?

You can use Star Money online or in-store for most items. It expires 30 days after issue.

How do I apply for a Macy’s credit card?

Visit macys.com to apply for the store card or Macy’s American Express card.

Can I stack Rakuten Cash Back with Macy’s Star Rewards?

Yes. Shopping through Rakuten lets you earn both Macy’s Star Rewards and Rakuten Cash Back at the same time.

Does the Macy’s app help manage my rewards?

Yes. The Macy’s app lets you track Star Rewards, redeem Star Money, view offers and manage Macy’s card payments.