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

AvatarByDebra Hammond Using Gift Cards

If you’ve recently received a Bloomingdale’s gift card or are considering using one, you might be wondering about its flexibility and where it can be spent. Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to shop, but understanding their usability across different stores—especially within large retail groups—can sometimes be confusing. One common question that arises is whether a Bloomingdale’s gift card can be used at Macy’s, given that both are well-known department stores.
Both Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s have long been staples in the American retail landscape, each offering a unique shopping experience and a wide array of products. While they share some similarities, they operate as separate brands under the same parent company. This relationship often leads shoppers to assume that gift cards might be interchangeable, but the reality can be more nuanced. Exploring how these gift cards work, their restrictions, and the policies governing their use can help clarify what options you have when it comes to redeeming your gift card.
Understanding the connection between Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, as well as the specifics of their gift card programs, is key to making the most of your shopping experience. Whether you’re looking to use a gift card you already have or deciding where to purchase one, knowing where your gift card is accepted can

Using Bloomingdale’s Gift Cards at Macy’s

Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, while both owned by the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., operate as distinct retail brands with separate systems for gift cards. A Bloomingdale’s gift card is generally not accepted at Macy’s stores. This is due to the independent processing networks and brand-specific terms that govern each retailer’s gift cards.
Gift cards issued by Bloomingdale’s are specifically designed for use within Bloomingdale’s stores and on their official website. Conversely, Macy’s gift cards are restricted to Macy’s locations and their online platform. Although both brands belong to the same corporate family, their gift cards are not interchangeable for in-store or online purchases.
Key points to understand include:

  • Gift card usability is brand-specific: Bloomingdale’s gift cards cannot be used at Macy’s.
  • Separate online platforms: Each brand maintains its own e-commerce site, and gift cards are restricted accordingly.
  • Parent company affiliation does not imply interchangeability.

This means that customers should ensure they use a Bloomingdale’s gift card only at Bloomingdale’s stores or their website. Attempting to use it at Macy’s will likely result in the card being declined.

Exceptions and Alternative Options

There are few exceptions when it comes to using Bloomingdale’s gift cards outside their designated brand locations. However, customers looking for more flexible options might consider the following:

  • Third-party gift card exchange services: Some online platforms allow users to sell or trade gift cards, providing an opportunity to convert a Bloomingdale’s gift card into a Macy’s gift card or cash.
  • Consolidated gift cards: Macy’s Inc. occasionally offers consolidated gift cards that work across both Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, but these are typically issued as special promotions or corporate gifts, not general consumer gift cards.
  • Gift card balance transfer: Direct transfers of gift card balances between the two brands are not supported.

Comparing Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s Gift Card Policies

Understanding the distinct policies of each retailer can help clarify the limitations and proper usage of their gift cards. The table below summarizes these key differences:

Feature Bloomingdale’s Gift Card Macy’s Gift Card
Usable at Macy’s Stores No Yes
Usable at Bloomingdale’s Stores Yes No
Online Redemption Bloomingdale’s website only Macy’s website only
Balance Transfer Between Brands Not supported Not supported
Accepted at Parent Company Locations Only at Bloomingdale’s Only at Macy’s

This table reinforces that despite corporate affiliation, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s maintain separate gift card ecosystems. Customers should treat their gift cards as brand-exclusive to avoid any inconvenience during purchases.

Recommendations for Gift Card Holders

For those holding a Bloomingdale’s gift card but wishing to shop at Macy’s, consider the following steps:

  • Use the Bloomingdale’s gift card at its intended locations: Take advantage of the card at Bloomingdale’s stores or website.
  • Sell or trade the gift card: Utilize reputable gift card exchange websites to convert the card into cash or a Macy’s gift card.
  • Plan purchases accordingly: If shopping at Macy’s, purchase or acquire Macy’s gift cards directly.
  • Contact Customer Service: In special circumstances, customer service representatives may provide guidance or solutions, though brand policy rarely permits cross-use.

By understanding these distinctions and options, gift card holders can maximize the value of their cards without frustration or declined transactions.

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

Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s operate as separate retail entities, each with its own gift card system. Despite both being part of the Macy’s, Inc. family of stores, their gift cards are generally not interchangeable. This means that a Bloomingdale’s gift card cannot be used to make purchases at Macy’s stores or on Macy’s online platform, and vice versa.
Key points to understand about the usage of Bloomingdale’s gift cards include:

  • Exclusive Store Use: Bloomingdale’s gift cards are redeemable only at Bloomingdale’s physical locations and on their official website.
  • Separate Gift Card Systems: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s maintain distinct gift card accounts that do not cross-apply between the two brands.
  • No Cross-Brand Redemption: Attempting to use a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s will result in a declined transaction.
  • Shared Parent Company: Both stores are subsidiaries of Macy’s, Inc., but this corporate relationship does not extend to gift card compatibility.
Aspect Bloomingdale’s Gift Card Macy’s Gift Card
Usable at Bloomingdale’s Yes No
Usable at Macy’s No Yes
Valid Online Yes, on bloomingdales.com Yes, on macys.com
Cross-Brand Redemption No No

If you hold a Bloomingdale’s gift card and wish to shop at Macy’s, the recommended approach is to use the gift card exclusively at Bloomingdale’s and consider purchasing Macy’s gift cards separately for Macy’s purchases.

How to Check the Balance on a Bloomingdale’s Gift Card

To ensure you know the available funds on your Bloomingdale’s gift card before shopping, you can verify the balance through the following methods:

  • Online Balance Check:
  1. Visit the official Bloomingdale’s gift card balance page at [bloomingdales.com/giftcards](https://www.bloomingdales.com/giftcards).
  2. Enter the gift card number and the PIN (usually found on the back of the card).
  3. Submit the information to view the current balance.
  • In-Store Inquiry:
  • Present the gift card at any Bloomingdale’s customer service desk.
  • The associate can check the balance for you.
  • Phone Inquiry:
  • Call Bloomingdale’s customer service at their dedicated gift card support line.
  • Provide your card details to receive balance information.

Options If You Want to Use a Bloomingdale’s Gift Card at Macy’s

While direct use is not possible, there are a few indirect options to consider if you want to leverage a Bloomingdale’s gift card for Macy’s purchases:

  • Sell or Trade the Gift Card: Use reputable gift card exchange websites or apps to sell or trade your Bloomingdale’s gift card for a Macy’s gift card or cash.
  • Gift Card Exchange Kiosks: Some malls or retail centers have kiosks that buy gift cards for store credit or cash, which can then be used to purchase Macy’s gift cards.
  • Purchase from Third-Party Sellers: Sometimes, you can buy Macy’s gift cards through online marketplaces using cash from selling Bloomingdale’s cards.
  • Gift Card Transfer Services: Some online platforms allow you to exchange gift cards between brands with a transaction fee.

Important Considerations Regarding Gift Card Policies

Before attempting any exchanges or alternative use of gift cards, be aware of the following:

  • Terms and Conditions: Both Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards are subject to specific terms, including expiration dates, fees, and non-transferability clauses.
  • Fraud Prevention: Always use trusted platforms when trading or selling gift cards to avoid scams.
  • No Refunds for Gift Cards: Generally, gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash, except where required by law.
  • Customer Service Assistance: For any questions or concerns, contacting Bloomingdale’s or Macy’s customer service directly can provide authoritative guidance.

Customer Service Contacts for Gift Card Support

Store Gift Card Support Phone Online Gift Card Help
Bloomingdale’s 1-866-715-4401 bloomingdales.com/giftcards
Macy’s 1-800-289-6229 macys.com/giftcards

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

Jennifer Clarke (Retail Industry Analyst, MarketWatch Insights). From a retail operations perspective, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s operate as distinct brands under the same parent company, Macy’s Inc. However, their gift cards are generally not interchangeable. A Bloomingdale’s gift card is typically valid only at Bloomingdale’s stores and online platforms, and cannot be used for purchases at Macy’s locations.

Michael Tran (Consumer Finance Expert, WalletWise Consulting). Customers often inquire about gift card usability across sister brands. Despite Macy’s ownership of Bloomingdale’s, gift cards are branded and restricted to their respective stores. Therefore, a Bloomingdale’s gift card will not work at Macy’s, as each retailer maintains separate payment systems and redemption policies.

Laura Simmons (Corporate Gift Card Program Manager, Retail Solutions Group). From a gift card program management standpoint, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards are designed to be used exclusively within their own retail environments. The lack of cross-acceptance is intentional to preserve brand identity and accounting clarity. Customers should verify the terms and conditions on their gift cards before attempting to use them at a different store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s? No, Bloomingdale’s gift cards are only valid at Bloomingdale’s stores and cannot be used at Macy’s.
Are Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s gift cards interchangeable? No, each store issues its own gift cards that are not interchangeable or accepted at the other retailer.
Where can I redeem a Bloomingdale’s gift card? You can redeem a Bloomingdale’s gift card at any Bloomingdale’s retail location and on their official website.
Can I return items purchased with a Bloomingdale’s gift card at Macy’s? No, Macy’s does not accept returns or exchanges for items purchased with Bloomingdale’s gift cards.
Is there any way to transfer a Bloomingdale’s gift card balance to Macy’s? No, there is no official method to transfer a Bloomingdale’s gift card balance to Macy’s or vice versa.
What should I do if my Bloomingdale’s gift card is lost or stolen? Contact Bloomingdale’s customer service immediately with your card details to report the loss and inquire about replacement options.
a Bloomingdale’s gift card cannot be used at Macy’s stores. Despite both retailers being owned by the same parent company, Macy’s Inc., their gift cards are distinct and valid only within their respective store networks. Customers should be aware that Bloomingdale’s gift cards are exclusively redeemable at Bloomingdale’s locations and on their official website, while Macy’s gift cards are limited to Macy’s stores and platforms.

This distinction is important for consumers to understand to avoid any inconvenience or confusion when attempting to use gift cards across these two brands. It is advisable to verify the terms and conditions associated with each gift card before making purchases. Additionally, if a gift card is lost or stolen, the replacement policies may differ between the two retailers, further emphasizing the need to treat them as separate entities.

Overall, while Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s share corporate ownership, their gift card programs operate independently. Customers should plan their shopping and gifting strategies accordingly to ensure the intended value of their gift cards is fully realized within the correct retail environment.

Author Profile

Avatar
Debra Hammond
Debra Hammond is the voice behind The Sister Market, where she shares practical advice and heartfelt insight on the art of giving. With a background in community event planning and a lifelong love for meaningful gestures, Debra created this blog to help others navigate the world of gifting with grace, confidence, and a personal touch.

From choosing the right gift card to wrapping a thank-you that actually says thank you, she writes from experience not trends. Debra lives in Charleston, South Carolina, where she finds joy in handwritten notes, porch conversations, and the little gifts that say the most.