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

AvatarByNicole Eder Using Gift Cards

When it comes to shopping at major department stores, gift cards have become a popular and convenient way to give the perfect present or treat yourself. Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are two iconic names in the retail world, each offering a wide array of fashion, home goods, and more. Naturally, many shoppers wonder about the flexibility of their gift cards, especially when it comes to using them across these well-known brands. One common question that arises is: Can you use Macy’s gift card at Bloomingdale’s?

Exploring the relationship between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards reveals interesting insights about their policies and how they operate within the retail landscape. Both stores are part of the same parent company, which sometimes leads to confusion about whether their gift cards are interchangeable. Understanding the nuances behind their gift card usage can help shoppers make the most of their purchases and avoid any unexpected surprises at checkout.

In this article, we’ll delve into the details surrounding Macy’s gift cards and their usability at Bloomingdale’s, providing clarity on what you can expect. Whether you’re a frequent shopper or someone who recently received a Macy’s gift card, this overview will equip you with the knowledge to navigate gift card use between these two retail giants confidently.

Using Macy’s Gift Cards at Bloomingdale’s

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both part of the Macy’s, Inc. family, which sometimes leads to confusion regarding the interchangeability of their gift cards. Despite their corporate connection, Macy’s gift cards and Bloomingdale’s gift cards are generally not interchangeable for use at each other’s stores.

Macy’s gift cards can only be redeemed at Macy’s locations and on the Macy’s website. Similarly, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are restricted to Bloomingdale’s stores and their online platform. This separation is maintained because each brand operates independently with distinct inventory, pricing, and promotional strategies.

However, there are some nuances worth noting:

  • Gift Card Validity: Both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards function as prepaid debit cards limited to their respective stores.
  • Exceptions: Occasionally, promotional events or corporate policy changes might allow cross-brand usage, but these are rare and usually well-communicated by the company.
  • Gift Card Balances: Macy’s gift card balances cannot be transferred to Bloomingdale’s cards, and vice versa.

If you have a Macy’s gift card but want to shop at Bloomingdale’s, you would need to redeem the Macy’s card first (either for cash back, if allowed, or for merchandise at Macy’s) and then purchase a Bloomingdale’s gift card separately.

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

While direct usage of Macy’s gift cards at Bloomingdale’s is not supported, there are alternative approaches to leverage your Macy’s gift card value indirectly:

  • Sell or Exchange Gift Cards: Online platforms allow you to sell or trade Macy’s gift cards for cash or other gift cards, including Bloomingdale’s, often at a slight discount.
  • Purchase Macy’s Merchandise and Gift It: You can buy Macy’s products and gift them to someone who prefers Bloomingdale’s, or resell them independently.
  • Use Third-Party Services: Some third-party websites offer gift card exchange services where you can trade a Macy’s gift card for a Bloomingdale’s card, though fees and availability vary.

Always verify the legitimacy and security of third-party services before conducting transactions to avoid scams.

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

Below is a table summarizing key differences and similarities in the gift card policies of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s:

Feature Macy’s Gift Card Bloomingdale’s Gift Card
Accepted Locations Macy’s stores & macys.com Bloomingdale’s stores & bloomingdales.com
Cross-Brand Use Not accepted at Bloomingdale’s Not accepted at Macy’s
Expiration No expiration No expiration
Balance Transfer Not allowed Not allowed
Refund Policy Refunds credited to card Refunds credited to card

Customer Support and Additional Assistance

If you have questions about your Macy’s gift card or need assistance regarding its use, Macy’s customer service provides several resources:

  • Phone Support: Dedicated customer service lines can address balance inquiries, lost cards, and other issues.
  • Online Account Management: You can register your gift card on the Macy’s website to check balances and monitor transactions.
  • In-Store Assistance: Macy’s store associates can help with card activation and balance checks.

Bloomingdale’s offers similar support for their gift cards but cannot provide assistance for Macy’s cards. For specific inquiries about cross-brand policies or exceptions, contacting Macy’s corporate customer service may provide the most accurate information.

By understanding these policies and available options, you can better manage your Macy’s gift cards and make informed decisions about your shopping preferences.

Using Macy’s Gift Cards at Bloomingdale’s

Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s are both part of the Macy’s, Inc. family of department stores, which often leads to questions about gift card usability across these brands. Understanding the specific policies regarding gift card acceptance is crucial for customers who wish to use their Macy’s gift cards at Bloomingdale’s locations or online.

Here is a detailed explanation of Macy’s gift card policy in relation to Bloomingdale’s:

  • Separate Gift Cards: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s issue distinct gift cards. A Macy’s gift card is designed to be used exclusively at Macy’s stores and its online platform.
  • Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards: Conversely, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are valid only at Bloomingdale’s stores and Bloomingdale’s online website.
  • No Cross-Store Redemption: Macy’s gift cards cannot be redeemed at Bloomingdale’s, and Bloomingdale’s gift cards cannot be used at Macy’s.
  • Shared Parent Company: Despite both being subsidiaries of Macy’s, Inc., the brands maintain separate gift card systems and customer accounts.
Gift Card Type Valid at Macy’s Valid at Bloomingdale’s
Macy’s Gift Card Yes No
Bloomingdale’s Gift Card No Yes

How to Use Macy’s Gift Cards Properly

To maximize the value of a Macy’s gift card, customers should follow these guidelines:

  • Redeem at Macy’s Locations: Use the gift card at any Macy’s department store across the United States.
  • Online Purchases: Enter the gift card number and PIN at checkout on macys.com to apply the balance.
  • Partial Payments: If the purchase amount exceeds the gift card balance, pay the remaining amount with another form of payment.
  • Check Balances: Verify your gift card balance at the store, by phone, or online to avoid declined transactions.
  • Expiration and Fees: Macy’s gift cards typically do not expire and do not have service fees, but it is advisable to confirm current terms upon purchase.

Alternatives for Using Gift Cards Across Macy’s Brands

While Macy’s gift cards cannot be used directly at Bloomingdale’s, customers seeking flexibility can consider the following options:

  • Gift Card Exchanges: Some third-party services facilitate exchanges or sales of gift cards, but these come with risks and fees.
  • Purchase Separate Gift Cards: Buy Bloomingdale’s gift cards if you plan to shop exclusively at Bloomingdale’s.
  • Promotional Offers: Occasionally, Macy’s, Inc. may run promotions allowing combined rewards or gift card usage across brands, but these are exceptions and clearly communicated.
  • Contact Customer Service: For complex situations, reaching out to Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s customer service can provide tailored assistance or clarify any temporary policy changes.

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

Jessica Reynolds (Retail Industry Analyst, Market Insights Group). Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s operate as separate brands under the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., but their gift card policies remain distinct. Typically, Macy’s gift cards are only redeemable at Macy’s stores and online platforms, and not at Bloomingdale’s locations. Consumers should verify the terms and conditions on their gift cards before attempting cross-store usage.

David Chen (Consumer Finance Expert, WalletWise Consulting). From a consumer finance perspective, it is important to understand that gift cards are often restricted to the issuing brand to prevent confusion and maintain brand-specific revenue streams. Macy’s gift cards generally cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s, despite both being part of the same corporate family. Customers seeking flexibility should consider multi-brand gift cards or inquire about specific promotions that might allow cross-usage.

Linda Martinez (Corporate Retail Strategist, Retail Futures Advisory). While Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share ownership, their gift card systems are not interchangeable by design. This separation supports distinct brand identities and customer experiences. Therefore, a Macy’s gift card will not be accepted at Bloomingdale’s, and vice versa. Retailers often communicate these policies clearly to manage customer expectations and reduce transaction issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you 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, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s gift cards cannot be used interchangeably as they are issued by different retailers under separate brands.

Where can you use a Macy’s gift card?
A Macy’s gift card can be used at any Macy’s store location, on Macy’s website, and through Macy’s mobile app.

Can you 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 only. Bloomingdale’s does not accept Macy’s gift cards for returns.

Is there a way to transfer balance from a Macy’s gift card to Bloomingdale’s?
No, there is no official method to transfer the balance from a Macy’s gift card to a Bloomingdale’s gift card or account.

Do Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s offer joint promotions involving gift cards?
Typically, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s run separate promotions and do not offer joint gift card deals due to their independent operations.
Macy’s gift cards cannot be used at Bloomingdale’s, as the two retailers operate independently despite both being part of the same parent company, Macy’s, Inc. Each store maintains its own distinct gift card system, meaning that a gift card purchased for Macy’s is valid only at Macy’s locations and online, and similarly, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are restricted to Bloomingdale’s stores and their website.

Understanding this separation is crucial for consumers who may assume interchangeability due to the shared corporate ownership. It is always advisable to verify the terms and conditions of gift cards before attempting to use them at different retailers. This ensures a smooth shopping experience and prevents any inconvenience at the point of sale.

Ultimately, while Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share a corporate umbrella, their gift card policies remain distinct. Customers should plan their purchases accordingly and use gift cards at the designated stores to maximize their value and avoid any potential issues during redemption.

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.