Is Macy's Star Rewards Program Worth It?

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Macy’s Star Rewards program is a tiered points system offering its customers — store credit card holders, in particular — Macy’s discounts, savings, rewards points and various other perks. You can even score a free Macy’s birthday gift. As with any rewards system, though, you have to weigh the benefits against the cost.
So are the Macy’s Star Rewards worth it? We’re breaking down the four tiers of membership: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum to look at what each level offers you.
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Macy’s Star Rewards Benefits by Tier

Macy’s Star Rewards: Bronze 

Macy’s Bronze Star Rewards level is the most basic and doesn’t require you to sign up for a store credit card. Because of this, you won’t earn as many rewards as the credit cardholders or be eligible for as many special savings events.
However, if you’re only an occasional Macy’s spender, it still offers a number of bonuses (and it’s free to sign up).
Macy’s Star Rewards Bronze Star member perks include access to Star Money Days, special perks and offers and a free birthday surprise.

Macy’s Star Rewards: Silver

If you open a Macy’s credit card, you’re automatically enrolled as a Silver member. You can then maintain your Silver status by spending up to $499 per year at Macy’s with a Macy’s credit card.
Macy’s Star Rewards Silver members earn all of the same perks as the Bronze members but also get access to Star Passes, which give members 25% off on any day they choose.
Additionally, Silver (and all tiers above Silver) gain access to special sale events throughout the year. Just be sure to pay your balance off monthly to avoid the hefty 24.5% APR.

Macy’s Star Rewards: Gold

If you’re a big Macy’s credit card spender, your rewards level will increase to Gold status. To qualify for Gold membership, you have to spend between $500 and $1,199 on your Macy’s card in a year. The perks are basically the same as for Silver members, but you’ll also get free shipping.
Additionally, upgraded accounts remain at their level for the remainder of the calendar year, as well as the next full calendar year.

Macy’s Star Rewards: Platinum

Unlock Platinum status by spending $1,200 or more at Macy’s on your Macy’s credit card. This is the level where the benefits of a Star Membership really kick in, especially if you’re able to pay off your balance each month.
Platinum member perks give you everything from the previous tiers, plus 5% cash back when you use your Macy’s card (with no merchandise exclusions). Additionally, Platinum members earn 5 points per $1 spent on qualified Star Rewards-earning purchases at Macy’s, Macy’s Backstage and macys.com.

What Are Star Money Days?

Star Money Days are one of the primary perks of any Star Rewards membership.
During a Star Money Day, shoppers that earn 1,000 points will get $10 in Star Money. Star Money may be used to purchase merchandise at Macy’s, Macy’s Backstage or macys.com, but is only valid for 30 days after you earn it, so you have to spend it fast. Members who do not reach the 1,000-point threshold will have their points carried over until the next event day.
These events are staggered sporadically throughout the year. And since they represent the only days when Bronze, Silver and Gold members can earn points, it’s important to pay attention to them.

Is Macy’s Star Rewards Membership Right for You?

If you plan on doing any amount of shopping at Macy’s this year, signing up for a Bronze Rewards membership is a no-brainer. It’s free, so there’s no risk, and you don’t have to sign up for a credit card.
For those who shop at Macy’s frequently, you may want to consider applying for a Macy’s card. However, make sure you read through all the terms, conditions and benefits thoroughly before you make a decision.
From there, continue spending as you normally would and see where you wind up. There’s no real reason to push your spending, as Gold isn’t insanely better than Silver. That said, you might want to consider Macy’s for big-ticket purchases like washing machines or refrigerators. One expensive item could net you a Platinum membership for two years.
Looking for more Macy’s deals? Don’t forget to set a Deal Alert so you don’t miss any department store savings!