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

AvatarByNicole Eder Using Gift Cards

When it comes to shopping at popular department stores, gift cards are a convenient and thoughtful way to give the gift of choice. Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are two iconic retailers that often come to mind for fashion, home goods, and more. If you’ve recently received a Macy’s gift card or are considering using one, you might be wondering about its versatility—specifically, whether it can be used at Bloomingdale’s.

Both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s have a rich history and strong presence in the retail world, often appealing to similar customer bases. However, despite their shared ownership under the same parent company, the policies regarding gift card usage can be nuanced. Understanding these details can help you make the most of your gift card and avoid any surprises at checkout.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the relationship between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards, how their usage policies compare, and what you need to know before trying to use a Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s. Whether you’re a savvy shopper or simply curious, this guide will provide clarity and help you navigate your options with confidence.

Using Macy’s Gift Cards at Bloomingdale’s: Store Policies Explained

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both subsidiaries of Macy’s, Inc., a major retail corporation. Despite being under the same corporate umbrella, each brand maintains distinct operational policies, particularly regarding gift card usage. It is important to understand that Macy’s gift cards are generally not accepted at Bloomingdale’s stores or on bloomingdales.com.

This separation in gift card acceptance stems from the following factors:

  • Brand Differentiation: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s cater to different market segments and maintain unique brand identities.
  • Separate Payment Systems: Each store operates independent point-of-sale systems that do not cross-process gift card transactions.
  • Promotional Strategies: Gift cards are a key part of each store’s marketing and customer retention efforts, typically restricted to the issuing brand.

Although both companies fall under the same parent company, Macy’s gift cards function exclusively within Macy’s outlets and online platforms.

Where Macy’s Gift Cards Are Valid

Macy’s gift cards can be used for purchases made:

  • In any Macy’s retail store across the United States.
  • On the official Macy’s website.
  • For in-store services such as alterations or personal shopping at Macy’s locations.

However, these gift cards are not valid for:

  • Bloomingdale’s stores or online shopping.
  • Other Macy’s, Inc. brands (e.g., Bluemercury).
  • Third-party retailers or partner merchants.

To avoid any inconvenience, customers should verify the store’s gift card policy before attempting to use a Macy’s gift card elsewhere.

Alternative Options for Using Gift Cards Between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s

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

  • Gift Card Exchange Services: Some third-party platforms allow you to trade or sell Macy’s gift cards for Bloomingdale’s gift cards, usually at a discounted rate.
  • Selling or Gifting the Card: You can give the Macy’s gift card to someone who shops at Macy’s or sell it online to recoup the card’s value.
  • Using Credit or Debit Cards: If you want to shop at Bloomingdale’s, use a credit or debit card instead of a Macy’s gift card.

These options provide flexibility but may involve fees or reduced value compared to direct use.

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

Feature Macy’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s Gift Card
Usable at Macy’s Stores Yes No
Usable at Bloomingdale’s Stores No Yes
Usable Online at Macy’s Website Yes No
Usable Online at Bloomingdale’s Website No Yes
Can Be Redeemed at Other Macy’s, Inc. Brands No No
Expiration Date Typically None Typically None

Checking Gift Card Balance and Validity

To manage your Macy’s gift card efficiently, it is advisable to regularly check your balance and confirm its validity before making purchases. Macy’s provides multiple ways to do this:

  • Online: Visit Macy’s official website and navigate to the gift card balance checker. Enter your card number and PIN to see the remaining balance.
  • In-Store: Ask a cashier or customer service representative to check your balance at any Macy’s location.
  • By Phone: Call Macy’s customer service and provide the card details to receive balance information.

Keep the gift card in a safe place and treat it like cash, as lost or stolen cards may not be replaced without proof of purchase.

Summary of Important Considerations

  • Macy’s gift cards cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s stores or websites.
  • Both brands maintain separate gift card systems despite common ownership.
  • Alternatives exist but may involve extra steps or costs.
  • Verify gift card balances and policies before shopping to avoid inconvenience.

Understanding these distinctions helps consumers make informed decisions when using gift cards within Macy’s, Inc.’s portfolio of retail brands.

Using Macy’s Gift Cards at Bloomingdale’s: Policies and Limitations

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both part of the Macy’s Inc. family of department stores, yet their gift card policies remain distinct and separate. Understanding these policies is crucial to determine whether a Macy’s gift card can be used at Bloomingdale’s.

Key Policy Overview:

  • Macy’s Gift Cards: These are issued specifically for Macy’s stores and websites.
  • Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards: These are designated for use exclusively at Bloomingdale’s stores and online platforms.
  • Non-Transferability: Gift cards from one brand generally cannot be redeemed at the other, despite corporate affiliation.

Therefore, a Macy’s gift card is not valid for purchases at Bloomingdale’s locations or on bloomingdales.com. Each brand operates its own gift card program independently, and the redemption systems do not cross over.

Exceptions and Related Options

While direct use of Macy’s gift cards at Bloomingdale’s is not permitted, there are alternative ways to leverage gift cards or funds between these brands:

  • Gift Card Exchanges or Resale: Some third-party platforms allow selling or exchanging Macy’s gift cards, potentially enabling you to acquire Bloomingdale’s gift cards indirectly.
  • Corporate Gift Cards and Vouchers: Occasionally, Macy’s Inc. may issue corporate or promotional cards valid across both brands, but these are rare and typically not available to general consumers.
  • Store Credit Considerations: Returns made to Macy’s with a Bloomingdale’s purchase are handled separately; store credits are issued for the respective brand only.

Gift Card Usage at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s: A Comparison Table

Feature Macy’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s Gift Card
Usable at Macy’s Stores Yes No
Usable at Bloomingdale’s Stores No Yes
Online Redemption at Macy’s Website Yes No
Online Redemption at Bloomingdale’s Website No Yes
Transferable Between Brands No No
Partial Use Allowed Yes Yes
Expiration Varies by state laws; often no expiration Varies by state laws; often no expiration

How to Check Gift Card Balance and Validity

To ensure accurate knowledge of your Macy’s gift card balance or to confirm its terms, use the following methods:

  • Online Balance Check: Visit Macy’s official website and navigate to the gift card balance page. Enter your card number and PIN to retrieve the current balance.
  • Customer Service: Contact Macy’s customer support via phone or chat for assistance with your gift card inquiries.
  • In-Store Inquiry: Present your gift card at any Macy’s store register to ask for the balance.

Note that attempting to use a Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s will result in the card being declined at checkout, as their systems do not recognize each other’s gift cards.

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

Jessica Lin (Retail Industry Analyst, MarketWatch Insights). Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s operate as separate brands under the Macy’s, Inc. umbrella, but their gift card systems are not interchangeable. A Macy’s gift card cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s stores or online, as each retailer maintains distinct payment processing platforms.

David Chen (Consumer Finance Specialist, ShoppingSmart Advisors). From a consumer standpoint, it is important to recognize that Macy’s gift cards are specifically designated for Macy’s locations. While both brands share ownership, their gift cards are not cross-accepted, so shoppers should plan to use Macy’s gift cards exclusively at Macy’s outlets to avoid inconvenience.

Maria Gonzalez (Retail Payment Systems Consultant, PayTech Solutions). The integration of gift card systems between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s has not been implemented due to differing backend technologies. Therefore, Macy’s gift cards remain valid only within Macy’s stores and cannot be redeemed at Bloomingdale’s, despite the corporate affiliation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s?
No, Macy’s gift cards are not valid for purchases at Bloomingdale’s. Each store operates its own separate gift card system.

Are Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards interchangeable?
No, gift cards issued by Macy’s cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s and vice versa, as they are distinct retail brands with independent payment systems.

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

Can I return items purchased at Bloomingdale’s using a Macy’s gift card?
Since Macy’s gift cards cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s, this situation does not apply. Returns must follow the store where the purchase was made.

Is there a way to transfer balance from a Macy’s gift card to Bloomingdale’s?
No, there is no official method to transfer balances between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards due to their separate systems.

Do Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s ever offer joint promotions involving gift cards?
Typically, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s run independent promotions. Joint offers involving gift cards are rare and would be clearly communicated by the retailers.
Macy’s gift cards are generally not accepted at Bloomingdale’s stores or on their respective websites. Despite both retailers being part of the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., their gift card systems operate independently. Therefore, a Macy’s gift card can only be used for purchases made at Macy’s locations or on Macy’s online platform.

It is important for consumers to verify the terms and conditions associated with their gift cards before attempting to use them at different stores within the same corporate family. While Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s may share ownership, their gift cards are designed to be retailer-specific, ensuring clear boundaries in redemption options. This distinction helps avoid confusion and ensures a smooth shopping experience.

For those interested in shopping at Bloomingdale’s, it is advisable to obtain a Bloomingdale’s gift card directly. Understanding these limitations allows customers to plan their purchases accordingly and maximize the value of their gift cards without inconvenience. Always checking with customer service or official websites can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding gift card usage.

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.