Can You Use a 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 offer a convenient and flexible way to treat yourself or loved ones. Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are two well-known retail giants under the same corporate umbrella, often leading to questions about the interchangeability of their gift cards. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you use a Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s?” you’re not alone.

Understanding the relationship between these two stores and how their gift cards work can help you make the most of your shopping experience. While both brands share a parent company, their policies regarding gift card usage may differ, impacting where and how you can redeem your balance. This topic is especially relevant for shoppers who want to maximize the value of their gift cards without any surprises at checkout.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the nuances of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift card policies, shedding light on the possibilities and limitations of using one store’s gift card at the other. Whether you’re a frequent shopper or simply curious, this guide will equip you with the essential information to navigate your gift card options confidently.

Differences Between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both owned by the same parent company, Macy’s, Inc., yet their gift card systems operate independently. This means that each retailer issues its own branded gift cards that are generally only redeemable at their respective stores and websites. A Macy’s gift card is specifically designed for use at Macy’s stores, online platforms, and affiliated services, whereas a Bloomingdale’s gift card is restricted to Bloomingdale’s locations and online channels.

Key distinctions include:

  • Brand-specific redemption: Macy’s gift cards are accepted only at Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s gift cards are accepted only at Bloomingdale’s.
  • Online usage: Each gift card works solely on the retailer’s respective website.
  • Promotional offers: Discounts or promotions tied to gift cards typically do not cross over between the two brands.

Because of these differences, a Macy’s gift card cannot be used to make purchases at Bloomingdale’s, and vice versa.

Using Macy’s Gift Cards: What You Need to Know

When using a Macy’s gift card, it is important to understand the following:

  • Where it works: Macy’s gift cards are accepted in all Macy’s stores across the United States, on the Macy’s website, and in any Macy’s-operated concessions.
  • Partial payments: If your purchase exceeds the card balance, you can use another form of payment to cover the remainder.
  • Checking balances: You can check your gift card balance online, by phone, or in-store.
  • Expiration and fees: Macy’s gift cards typically do not expire and do not carry inactivity fees.

Overview of Bloomingdale’s Gift Card Policies

Bloomingdale’s gift cards share similar usage conditions but are limited to Bloomingdale’s stores and their online shopping portal. Understanding these policies helps avoid any confusion:

  • Gift cards cannot be redeemed at Macy’s.
  • They are usable for in-store and online purchases at Bloomingdale’s.
  • Balance inquiries can be made through the Bloomingdale’s website, customer service, or in-store.
  • Bloomingdale’s gift cards generally do not expire or incur fees.

Comparison of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards

The table below summarizes the key differences and similarities between the two gift card types:

Feature Macy’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s Gift Card
Accepted Stores Macy’s stores and online Bloomingdale’s stores and online
Cross-Brand Usage Not accepted at Bloomingdale’s Not accepted at Macy’s
Balance Check Online, phone, in-store Online, phone, in-store
Expiration None None
Fees No inactivity fees No inactivity fees

Alternatives to Using Macy’s Gift Cards at Bloomingdale’s

If you want to shop at Bloomingdale’s but only have a Macy’s gift card, consider the following options:

  • Purchase Bloomingdale’s gift cards: Buy a Bloomingdale’s gift card using other payment methods.
  • Gift card exchange services: Some third-party platforms facilitate gift card exchanges or sales, allowing you to trade or sell Macy’s gift cards for Bloomingdale’s equivalents.
  • Return and repurchase: If items were purchased at Macy’s with a gift card, returning them for store credit might allow you to use funds toward a Bloomingdale’s gift card, although this depends on store policies and may not be practical.

These alternatives require caution; always verify the legitimacy of third-party services to avoid scams.

Customer Support and Assistance

For any questions regarding the use of Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s gift cards, contacting customer service is advisable. Both retailers provide dedicated support channels:

  • Macy’s Customer Service

Phone: 1-800-289-6229
Website: www.macys.com/customer-service

  • Bloomingdale’s Customer Service

Phone: 1-888-777-0008
Website: www.bloomingdales.com/customer-service

Representatives can clarify gift card policies, assist with balance inquiries, and provide guidance on using your gift card effectively.

Can You Use a Macy’s Gift Card at Bloomingdale’s?

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both owned by the same parent company, Macy’s, Inc. However, despite this corporate relationship, their gift card policies remain distinct and separate. Specifically:

  • Macy’s gift cards are only valid at Macy’s stores and on Macy’s online platforms.
  • Bloomingdale’s gift cards are exclusively redeemable at Bloomingdale’s stores and their website.

This means that a gift card purchased from Macy’s cannot be used to make purchases at Bloomingdale’s, and vice versa.

Understanding the Gift Card Policies for Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s

Each brand maintains its own gift card program, with unique terms and conditions. These programs are designed to support brand-specific inventory, pricing, and promotions.

Aspect Macy’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s Gift Card
Usable Locations Macy’s stores nationwide and macys.com Bloomingdale’s stores nationwide and bloomingdales.com
Card Sharing Cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s Cannot be used at Macy’s
Online Redemption Valid only on macys.com Valid only on bloomingdales.com
Reloadable Yes, at Macy’s locations and online Yes, at Bloomingdale’s locations and online
Expiration No expiration No expiration

Why Macy’s Gift Cards Are Not Accepted at Bloomingdale’s

There are several reasons for the distinct separation in gift card acceptance despite the shared corporate ownership:

  • Brand Identity and Experience: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s cater to different market segments and customer experiences, with separate merchandising strategies.
  • Inventory and Pricing Systems: Each brand operates its own point-of-sale and inventory management systems, making cross-acceptance of gift cards technically complex.
  • Promotional and Financial Accounting: Separate gift card programs simplify tracking of sales, promotions, and financial reporting for each brand.
  • Customer Expectations: Customers expect gift cards to correspond with a specific brand’s offerings, ensuring clarity during purchase and redemption.

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

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

  • Purchase Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards: Available at Bloomingdale’s stores and online, these can be used exclusively at Bloomingdale’s.
  • Shop at Macy’s: Use the Macy’s gift card where it is accepted to maximize its value.
  • Gift Card Exchanges: Some third-party gift card exchange platforms may offer options to trade or sell gift cards, but verify legitimacy and fees carefully.
  • Combine with Other Payment Methods: If your Macy’s gift card balance is insufficient, you can typically combine it with other payment methods at Macy’s but not at Bloomingdale’s.

How to Check Your Gift Card Balance and Usage Restrictions

Both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s provide easy ways to check gift card balances and understand usage restrictions:

  • Online Balance Check: Visit the respective websites — macys.com for Macy’s and bloomingdales.com for Bloomingdale’s — and enter your card number and PIN.
  • Customer Service: Call the customer service numbers printed on the back of the gift card for assistance.
  • In-Store Inquiry: Visit any Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s store and ask a cashier to verify your gift card balance.

Using Gift Cards Across Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Other Sister Brands

While Macy’s Inc. owns several retail brands, their gift cards are generally not interchangeable. This includes:

  • Macy’s
  • Bloomingdale’s
  • Bluemercury
  • Other affiliated brands

The parent company maintains separate gift card programs to preserve brand autonomy and operational efficiency. Customers should always confirm gift card acceptance policies before attempting to use a card at a sister brand.

Brand Accepts Macy’s Gift Card? Accepts Bloomingdale’s Gift Card?
Macy’s Yes No
Bloomingdale’s No Yes
Bluemercury No No

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

Jennifer Lee (Retail Industry Analyst, MarketWatch Insights). Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s operate as separate brands under the same parent company, Macy’s Inc. However, gift cards issued by Macy’s are generally not accepted at Bloomingdale’s stores due to distinct payment and redemption systems. Customers should verify the terms and conditions of their gift cards before attempting cross-brand use.

David Martinez (Consumer Finance Expert, National Retail Federation). While Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share corporate ownership, their gift card programs remain independent. This separation means a Macy’s gift card cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s locations. Consumers looking for flexibility should consider purchasing Macy’s Inc. gift cards that explicitly state multi-brand usability.

Rachel Kim (Payments and Loyalty Program Consultant, Retail Solutions Group). From a payments integration perspective, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s maintain distinct gift card platforms to track sales and redemptions accurately. This operational choice prevents Macy’s gift cards from being accepted at Bloomingdale’s, ensuring clear financial reconciliation and customer experience management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Are Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards interchangeable?
No, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards are separate and not interchangeable, as they operate independently despite both being owned by the same parent company.

Where can I redeem a Bloomingdale’s gift card?
Bloomingdale’s gift cards can be redeemed at any Bloomingdale’s store or on their official website, but not at Macy’s locations.

Can I return items purchased with a Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s?
No, returns for items purchased with a Macy’s gift card must be made at Macy’s stores or through Macy’s customer service channels.

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

Do Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share the same gift card terms and conditions?
No, each retailer has its own specific terms and conditions for gift card usage, which do not cross-apply between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s.
Macy’s gift cards are specifically designed for use at Macy’s stores and their official online platform. They cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s, as Bloomingdale’s operates as a separate retail entity with its own distinct gift card system. Despite both being part of the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., the gift cards are not interchangeable between the two brands.

It is important for consumers to verify the terms and conditions associated with gift cards before attempting to use them at different retailers. Understanding the limitations ensures a smooth shopping experience and prevents any inconvenience at checkout. For those interested in shopping at Bloomingdale’s, purchasing a Bloomingdale’s gift card is the appropriate option.

Overall, while Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share corporate ties, their gift card policies remain independent. Customers should always use the gift card issued by the specific store to avoid any issues. Staying informed about these distinctions helps maximize the value and usability of gift cards across these prominent department stores.

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.