Can I Use a Bloomingdale’s Gift Card at Macy’s? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByNicole Eder Using Gift Cards

If you’ve recently received a Bloomingdale’s gift card or are considering using one, you might be wondering about its versatility—specifically, whether it can be used at Macy’s. Both Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s are iconic department store chains with a rich history and a loyal customer base, often sparking curiosity about the interchangeability of their gift cards. Understanding how these gift cards work can help you make the most of your shopping experience and avoid any surprises at the checkout.

Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to shop, offering flexibility and ease for both gift-givers and recipients. However, when it comes to major retailers like Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, which operate under the same parent company but maintain distinct brand identities, questions about cross-usage naturally arise. Exploring the relationship between these two stores and their gift card policies can shed light on whether your Bloomingdale’s gift card holds value beyond its own aisles.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the specifics of Bloomingdale’s gift card usage, how it compares to Macy’s, and what you need to know before heading out to shop. Whether you’re a frequent shopper or a first-time gift card holder, this guide will provide clarity and help you navigate your options with

Using a Bloomingdale’s Gift Card at Macy’s

Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, while both prominent department stores owned by the same parent company, operate distinct brand and retail systems. This separation extends to their gift card policies and redemption options. Specifically, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are designed for use exclusively at Bloomingdale’s stores and online platforms. They cannot be used to make purchases at Macy’s stores or on the Macy’s website.

The reason for this limitation lies in the different point-of-sale systems and brand management strategies each retailer employs. Even though they share ownership under Macy’s, Inc., their gift cards are not interchangeable. Customers looking to shop at Macy’s must use Macy’s gift cards or other accepted payment methods specific to Macy’s.

Key points to understand about gift card usage between these two retailers include:

  • Brand-Specific Usage: Bloomingdale’s gift cards are valid only at Bloomingdale’s.
  • Separate Redemption Systems: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s maintain independent gift card processing.
  • No Cross-Redemption: Gift cards cannot be transferred or redeemed between the two stores.
  • Online and In-Store Restrictions: The limitation applies both to physical store locations and online shopping portals.

Comparison of Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s Gift Card Policies

To clarify the distinctions between Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards, the following table summarizes the key aspects of each:

Aspect Bloomingdale’s Gift Card Macy’s Gift Card
Where Usable Bloomingdale’s stores and Bloomingdale’s website only Macy’s stores and Macy’s website only
Cross-Store Usage Not accepted at Macy’s Not accepted at Bloomingdale’s
Reloadable Yes, can be reloaded at Bloomingdale’s Yes, can be reloaded at Macy’s
Expiration No expiration date No expiration date
Return Policy Returns credited back to the Bloomingdale’s gift card Returns credited back to the Macy’s gift card
Physical and E-Gift Options Available as physical cards and e-gift cards Available as physical cards and e-gift cards

Alternative Options for Using Gift Cards Across Stores

Although you cannot use a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s directly, there are a few alternative approaches you might consider:

  • Gift Card Exchange Services: Some third-party platforms allow you to trade or sell unwanted gift cards, including Bloomingdale’s cards, for cash or other gift cards, potentially including Macy’s.
  • Gifting or Reselling: If you have a Bloomingdale’s gift card but prefer shopping at Macy’s, gifting the card to someone who shops at Bloomingdale’s or selling it online may be a practical option.
  • Purchasing Macy’s Gift Cards: You can buy Macy’s gift cards using cash or other payment methods to shop at Macy’s locations or online.
  • Store Promotions: Occasionally, Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s may run promotions that offer store credit or incentives when purchasing gift cards, but these promotions do not merge gift card usability between stores.

Understanding these alternatives helps manage gift card usage effectively, ensuring that you maximize the value of your gift cards within the appropriate retail environments.

Using a Bloomingdale’s Gift Card at Macy’s

Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s are both prominent department store chains owned by Macy’s, Inc., yet their gift card policies remain distinct and separate. Understanding whether a Bloomingdale’s gift card can be used at Macy’s requires examining the terms of each brand’s gift cards and the corporate structure.

Despite shared ownership, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s maintain separate gift card systems. A Bloomingdale’s gift card is specifically redeemable only at Bloomingdale’s stores and their online platform. Conversely, Macy’s gift cards are valid exclusively at Macy’s stores and Macy’s website.

Key points regarding Bloomingdale’s gift card usage:

  • Validity: Usable only at Bloomingdale’s physical locations and Bloomingdale’s online store.
  • Not accepted at Macy’s: Macy’s stores and website do not accept Bloomingdale’s gift cards as payment.
  • Separate systems: Gift cards for each brand operate on independent payment processing platforms.

Similarly, Macy’s gift cards cannot be redeemed at Bloomingdale’s. This separation ensures brand-specific promotions, loyalty programs, and inventory management remain distinct.

Gift Card Type Redeemable Locations Accepted at Other Brand
Bloomingdale’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s stores and bloomingdales.com No, not accepted at Macy’s
Macy’s Gift Card Macy’s stores and macys.com No, not accepted at Bloomingdale’s

For customers seeking flexibility in gift card use across both brands, this separation can be limiting. However, it is important to recognize that each brand targets different market segments with unique merchandise assortments and shopping experiences.

If you possess a Bloomingdale’s gift card but wish to shop at Macy’s, consider the following options:

  • Use the Bloomingdale’s gift card at any Bloomingdale’s store or online to purchase items.
  • Sell or exchange the gift card through reputable gift card exchange services or marketplaces, if allowed by terms.
  • Gift the Bloomingdale’s card to someone who prefers shopping there.

Attempting to use a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s registers as declined or invalid at the point of sale, as the payment systems recognize them as incompatible.

Expert Insights on Using Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards at Macy’s

Jessica Martinez (Retail Industry Analyst, Consumer Insights Group). From a retail operations perspective, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s operate as separate entities despite being under the same parent company. Therefore, gift cards issued by Bloomingdale’s are generally not accepted at Macy’s stores due to distinct brand management and point-of-sale systems.

David Chen (Gift Card Program Manager, National Retail Federation). Gift cards are typically restricted to the issuing brand to prevent cross-brand liability and accounting complexities. While Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share ownership, their gift card systems are not interchangeable, so a Bloomingdale’s gift card cannot be redeemed at Macy’s locations.

Laura Simmons (Consumer Finance Expert, Shopper’s Advocate). For consumers, it is important to understand that a Bloomingdale’s gift card is designed for use exclusively at Bloomingdale’s stores or their online platform. Attempting to use it at Macy’s will usually result in a declined transaction, as the two brands maintain separate gift card policies despite corporate affiliation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s?
No, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are only valid for purchases at Bloomingdale’s stores and their official website. They cannot be used at Macy’s.

Are Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards interchangeable?
No, gift cards issued by Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s are separate and cannot be used interchangeably between the two retailers.

Can I combine a Bloomingdale’s gift card with a Macy’s gift card for a single purchase?
No, since the gift cards are retailer-specific, you cannot combine them for purchases at either store.

Where can I redeem a Bloomingdale’s gift card?
You can redeem a Bloomingdale’s gift card at any Bloomingdale’s store location or on their official website.

What should I do if I want to shop at Macy’s but only have a Bloomingdale’s gift card?
You will need to purchase a Macy’s gift card separately or use other accepted payment methods at Macy’s, as Bloomingdale’s gift cards are not accepted there.

Is there any way to transfer the balance from a Bloomingdale’s gift card to a Macy’s gift card?
No, there is no official process to transfer balances between Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards due to their separate operations.
a Bloomingdale’s gift card cannot be used at Macy’s stores or on their respective websites. Despite both retailers being part of the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., their gift cards are distinct and only valid for purchases within their individual brand outlets. Customers should be aware that these gift cards are not interchangeable and must be redeemed according to the specific store policies of each brand.

It is important for gift card holders to verify the terms and conditions associated with their cards to avoid any inconvenience during checkout. For those looking to shop at both Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, separate gift cards will be necessary. Additionally, customers can consider contacting customer service for any questions regarding gift card usage or balance inquiries to ensure a smooth shopping experience.

Ultimately, understanding the limitations and proper use of Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards helps consumers make informed decisions and maximize the value of their purchases. Staying informed about each retailer’s policies is essential to avoid confusion and to fully benefit from the convenience and flexibility that gift cards offer.

Author Profile

Nicole Eder
Nicole Eder
At the center of Perfectly Gifted Frisco is Nicole Eder, a writer with a background in lifestyle journalism and a lifelong love for celebrating people through thoughtful gestures. Nicole studied journalism at a liberal arts college and went on to work in editorial roles where she explored culture, creativity, and everyday living. Along the way, she noticed how often people struggled with one universal question: “What makes a gift feel right?”

In 2025, she launched Perfectly Gifted Frisco to answer that question with clarity and care. Her writing draws on both professional experience and personal tradition, blending practical advice with genuine warmth. Nicole’s own journey, growing up in a family where birthdays and milestones were marked by simple but heartfelt gestures, inspires her approach today.