How Can I Use Macy's Money Online? A Comprehensive Guide

Macy’s Money, a fantastic loyalty reward, allows you to save on future purchases. At money-central.com, we understand the importance of maximizing your savings and making informed financial decisions. This article dives deep into how to use Macy’s Money online effectively, covering everything from earning periods to redemption strategies and beyond. We’ll explore how to leverage this store credit, helping you manage your money wisely and achieve your financial goals.

1. What Exactly Is Macy’s Money and How Does It Work?

Macy’s Money is essentially a digital or physical gift card you earn when you spend a specific amount during a Macy’s “special earning period.” Think of it like a store credit that rewards you for your purchases. According to financial experts, loyalty programs like Macy’s Money can be a great way to save money if used strategically.

Here’s how it works:

Earning Period: Macy’s designates specific periods throughout the year as “earning periods.” During these times, every dollar you spend earns you Macy’s Money.
Spending Threshold: Typically, there’s a spending threshold you need to meet to receive Macy’s Money. For example, you might earn $10 in Macy’s Money for every $50 you spend.
Redemption Period: After the earning period ends, there’s a “redemption period” when you can use your earned Macy’s Money to purchase items.
Online and In-Store: You can earn Macy’s Money both online and in Macy’s stores. Online, the code is usually delivered via email after your purchase.

Unlike other rewards, Macy’s Money cannot be used to purchase gift cards or pay off your Macy’s credit card balance.

2. When Can I Earn and Redeem Macy’s Money?

Knowing the timing of earning and redemption periods is key to maximizing your Macy’s Money benefits. Earning periods usually pop up a few times a year, often aligning with major shopping events and holidays.

Some common times to find Macy’s Money promotions include:

Mother’s Day: Around May, offering a chance to earn rewards while buying gifts.
Back-to-School: In late summer, perfect for stocking up on school clothes and supplies.
Black Friday/Cyber Monday: In November, one of the biggest shopping periods of the year.
Holidays: In December, just in time for Christmas gift shopping.

Redemption periods typically follow immediately after the earning period, usually lasting around 10 days. Keep an eye on Macy’s website, app, and email newsletters for announcements of these periods.

3. How Do I Receive My Macy’s Money?

Receiving your Macy’s Money depends on whether you shop in-store or online:

In-Store: If you shop at a physical Macy’s location, you’ll receive a physical card printed at the register upon checkout. The card will display the amount of Macy’s Money you’ve earned.
Online: If you shop online at Macys.com, you’ll receive a confirmation email shortly after your purchase. This email will contain a unique code that represents your Macy’s Money.

For online purchases, it’s essential to keep this email safe, as you’ll need the code to redeem your Macy’s Money during the redemption period. If you have a Macy’s account, your Macy’s Money can show up in your wallet.

4. Is a Macy’s Star Rewards Membership Required to Earn Macy’s Money?

Woman looking at Macy's Star Rewards Tracking App on her phone

No, you do not need to be a Macy’s Star Rewards member to earn Macy’s Money. Anyone who shops during the designated earning periods can receive it. However, being a Star Rewards member does offer additional perks.

Here’s a breakdown:

Macy’s Money (Everyone): Earned during specific promotional periods based on spending thresholds.
Star Rewards Money (Members Only): Earn points on every purchase, which accumulate into Star Rewards Money.

Star Rewards members earn points on every purchase and will receive $10 in Star Rewards Money for every $1,000 spent.

Cashback Comparison:

Macy’s Money = Up to 20% cashback during promotional periods.
Star Rewards Money = 1% cashback on all purchases (for Silver, Gold, and Platinum members).

5. Can I Earn Macy’s Money With “No Hurry” Shipping?

Yes, sometimes you can earn Macy’s Money by opting for “no hurry” shipping. Macy’s has been known to offer $10 in Macy’s Money for customers who choose this option, provided their order meets a minimum purchase requirement (e.g., $25 or more). This offer is often available around Black Friday.

“No Hurry” shipping means your order will arrive in 6-9 days instead of the standard 3-6 days. This is a great way to earn extra Macy’s Money if you’re not in a rush to receive your items.

6. Redeeming Macy’s Money Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

Redeeming your Macy’s Money online is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

Shop Online: Add the items you wish to purchase to your shopping cart at Macys.com.
Proceed to Checkout: Once you’re ready to buy, click on the shopping cart icon and proceed to checkout.
Sign In or Create an Account: If you already have a Macy’s account, sign in. If not, you can create one or continue as a guest.
Enter Shipping and Payment Information: Provide your shipping address and payment details.
Apply Macy’s Money: On the order summary page, look for a section labeled “Apply Macy’s Money,” “Promo Code,” or “Gift Card.”
Enter Your Code: Enter the code from your confirmation email. If your Macy’s Money is in your wallet, it will automatically show up during checkout.
Click “Apply”: Click the “Apply” button to apply the Macy’s Money to your order. The total amount will be adjusted accordingly.
Review and Submit: Review your order summary to ensure the Macy’s Money has been applied correctly. Then, submit your order.

7. What Happens If My Macy’s Money Expires?

Once your Macy’s Money expires, it’s no longer valid. Unlike some other stores that may offer rewards points for expired credit, Macy’s doesn’t have a similar policy. Expired Macy’s Money cannot be redeemed.

8. Understanding Exclusions: What Can’t I Buy With Macy’s Money?

While Macy’s Money is versatile, there are some exclusions to be aware of both when earning and redeeming it.

Exclusions When Earning:

Apple products
Watches, jewelry, accessories
Tech
Macy’s Backstage
Beauty Box subscriptions
Gift cards
Mattresses
Rugs
Furniture

Exclusions When Redeeming:

Gift cards
Macy’s credit account payments

9. Can I Combine Macy’s Money With Coupons?

Macy's Black Friday 2023 Coupon Advertisement

Yes, you can combine Macy’s Money with Macy’s coupons and promotional codes. This is where you can really maximize your savings.

Stacking Strategies:

Add Items to Cart: Select the items you want to purchase and add them to your shopping cart.
Apply Coupons: Enter any valid promo codes or coupons in the designated field during checkout. Apply them to your order first.
Apply Macy’s Money: Next, apply your Macy’s Money code. The discount will be applied after the coupon.
Review and Pay: Review your order to ensure both the coupon and Macy’s Money discounts have been applied. Then, complete your purchase.

While you can use up to five Macy’s Money rewards in one transaction, keep in mind that you can typically only use one promo code or coupon per online order.

10. Returning Items Purchased With Macy’s Money: What to Expect

Person on an escalator with a Macy's shopping bag

If you need to return an item purchased with Macy’s Money, you can do so following Macy’s standard return policy. However, the key thing to note is that the Macy’s Money used in the original purchase will not be refunded to your account.

Here’s what happens:

Return Process: Return the item to Macy’s, either in-store or by mail, following their return policy guidelines.
Refund: You’ll receive a refund for the amount you paid out of pocket after applying the Macy’s Money. The Macy’s Money itself is not reinstated.

In essence, the value of the Macy’s Money is considered used at the time of the original purchase and is not recoverable upon return.

11. Maximizing Your Macy’s Money: Expert Tips and Tricks

To make the most of your Macy’s Money, consider these expert tips:

Plan Your Purchases: Strategically plan your purchases around Macy’s Money earning periods to maximize your rewards.
Combine with Sales: Stack your Macy’s Money with clearance sales and limited-time offers for even greater savings.
Sign Up for Emails: Stay informed about upcoming earning and redemption periods by signing up for Macy’s email newsletters.
Use a Rewards Credit Card: Earn additional rewards by using a cashback or rewards credit card for your Macy’s purchases.
Track Your Spending: Keep track of your spending during earning periods to ensure you meet the minimum purchase requirements for Macy’s Money.
Shop strategically: If possible, split your purchases into multiple orders during “no hurry” shipping promotions to earn more Macy’s Money.

12. Macy’s Money vs. Competitor Programs: A Comparison

Macy’s Money is just one type of store loyalty program. Let’s compare it to similar programs offered by other retailers:

Feature	Macy’s Money	Kohl’s Cash	Old Navy Super Cash
Earning Period	Specified promotional periods	Specified promotional periods	Specified promotional periods
Redemption Period	Typically follows earning period	Typically follows earning period	Typically follows earning period
Earning Rate	Varies; often $10 for every $50 spent	Typically $10 for every $50 spent	Varies; often $10 for every $25 spent
Redemption	Online and in-store	Online and in-store	Online and in-store
Expiration	Expires after the redemption period	Expires after the redemption period	Expires after the redemption period
Stacking	Can be combined with coupons	Can be combined with coupons	Can be combined with coupons
Returns	Macy’s Money not refunded	Kohl’s Cash not refunded	Super Cash not refunded
Membership Required	No	No	No
Key Differences	Offers Star Rewards program in addition to Macy’s Money	Often offers more frequent earning periods	Lower spending threshold for earning

13. Potential Changes to the Macy’s Money Program

Like any loyalty program, Macy’s Money is subject to change. Macy’s may adjust the earning rates, redemption periods, exclusions, or other aspects of the program. It’s essential to stay updated on the latest terms and conditions to ensure you’re maximizing your benefits.

Some potential changes to watch out for include:

Earning Rate Adjustments: Macy’s may change the amount of Macy’s Money you earn per dollar spent.
Redemption Period Modifications: The length of the redemption period may be shortened or extended.
Exclusion Updates: The list of excluded items may be updated.
Program Enhancements: Macy’s may introduce new features or benefits to the program.

14. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Macy’s Money Online

To ensure a smooth and successful experience, avoid these common mistakes when using Macy’s Money online:

Forgetting to Apply the Code: Always remember to enter your Macy’s Money code during checkout.
Using Expired Macy’s Money: Double-check the expiration date before attempting to redeem.
Exceeding the Limit: Be aware of any limits on the number of Macy’s Money rewards you can use per transaction.
Misunderstanding Exclusions: Review the list of exclusions to ensure your purchases qualify for redemption.
Losing the Code: Keep your confirmation email safe and accessible.

15. Understanding the Psychology Behind Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs like Macy’s Money are designed to influence consumer behavior. According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, in July 2025, these programs leverage psychological principles to encourage repeat purchases and increase customer engagement.

Some of the key psychological drivers behind loyalty programs include:

Loss Aversion: The fear of losing out on a reward motivates customers to make additional purchases.
Endowment Effect: Once customers feel they “own” the reward (Macy’s Money), they are more likely to use it.
Goal Gradient Effect: Customers accelerate their purchasing behavior as they get closer to reaching a reward threshold.

16. How to Stay Updated on Macy’s Money Promotions

Staying informed about Macy’s Money promotions is key to maximizing your savings. Here are several ways to stay updated:

Sign Up for Macy’s Emails: Subscribe to Macy’s email newsletters to receive alerts about upcoming earning and redemption periods.
Download the Macy’s App: The Macy’s app often provides exclusive deals and early access to promotions.
Follow Macy’s on Social Media: Stay connected with Macy’s on social media platforms to receive updates on new promotions.
Check Money-Central.com: Visit our website regularly for the latest news and tips on Macy’s Money and other savings opportunities.
Set Up Google Alerts: Set up Google Alerts for “Macy’s Money” to receive notifications whenever there’s news about the program.

17. The Role of Macy’s Money in Building Customer Loyalty

Macy’s Money plays a significant role in building customer loyalty. By rewarding customers for their purchases, Macy’s encourages repeat business and fosters a sense of appreciation. This can lead to increased customer lifetime value and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Key benefits of Macy’s Money for customer loyalty include:

Increased Engagement: Customers are more likely to engage with Macy’s brand and products.
Higher Retention Rates: Customers are more likely to remain loyal to Macy’s over time.
Positive Brand Perception: Customers perceive Macy’s as a generous and customer-focused retailer.

18. Alternatives to Macy’s Money: Other Ways to Save at Macy’s

While Macy’s Money is a great way to save, there are other strategies you can use to maximize your savings at Macy’s:

Macy’s Star Rewards Program: Sign up for the Star Rewards program to earn points on every purchase.
Macy’s Credit Card: Consider applying for a Macy’s credit card to receive exclusive discounts and rewards.
Clearance Sales: Shop Macy’s clearance sales for deeply discounted items.
One-Day Sales: Take advantage of Macy’s One-Day Sales for limited-time savings.
Promo Codes and Coupons: Search for promo codes and coupons online before making a purchase.
Price Matching: Ask Macy’s about their price matching policy to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

19. Is Macy’s Money Worth It? A Financial Perspective

From a financial perspective, Macy’s Money can be worth it if used strategically. By planning your purchases around earning periods and combining Macy’s Money with other discounts, you can save a significant amount of money.

However, it’s important to avoid overspending simply to earn Macy’s Money. Only purchase items you need or would have bought anyway. Otherwise, you may end up spending more money than you save.

20. The Future of Loyalty Programs: Trends and Predictions

Loyalty programs are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of consumers. Some of the key trends and predictions for the future of loyalty programs include:

Personalization: Loyalty programs will become more personalized, offering tailored rewards and experiences.
Gamification: Loyalty programs will incorporate gamification elements to increase engagement and motivation.
Mobile Integration: Loyalty programs will be seamlessly integrated with mobile devices and apps.
Data Analytics: Loyalty programs will leverage data analytics to better understand customer behavior and preferences.
Blockchain Technology: Blockchain technology may be used to create more secure and transparent loyalty programs.

21. Debunking Common Myths About Macy’s Money

There are several common myths and misconceptions about Macy’s Money. Let’s debunk some of them:

Myth: You need to be a Macy’s Star Rewards member to earn Macy’s Money.
- Fact: Anyone can earn Macy’s Money during designated earning periods.
Myth: Macy’s Money can be used on any purchase.
- Fact: There are exclusions on both earning and redemption of Macy’s Money.
Myth: Macy’s Money is automatically refunded if you return an item.
- Fact: Macy’s Money is not refunded upon return of an item.
Myth: Macy’s Money is the same as a gift card.
- Fact: While similar, Macy’s Money has specific earning and redemption periods and restrictions.

22. How to Handle Issues With Macy’s Money Online

If you encounter any issues with your Macy’s Money online, such as difficulty applying the code or missing rewards, here are some steps you can take:

Check the Code: Ensure you’ve entered the code correctly.
Verify the Dates: Make sure the earning and redemption periods are still valid.
Review Exclusions: Check that your purchases meet the eligibility requirements.
Contact Customer Service: Contact Macy’s customer service for assistance. You can reach them by phone, email, or online chat.
Provide Documentation: Be prepared to provide documentation of your purchase, such as your order confirmation email.

23. The Impact of Economic Factors on Macy’s Money Promotions

Economic factors can influence the frequency and generosity of Macy’s Money promotions. During times of economic uncertainty, retailers may offer more aggressive promotions to stimulate sales. Conversely, during periods of economic growth, promotions may be less frequent or less generous.

Other economic factors that can impact Macy’s Money promotions include:

Inflation: Rising inflation can lead to higher prices and lower consumer spending, prompting retailers to offer more promotions.
Interest Rates: Higher interest rates can make it more expensive for consumers to borrow money, potentially leading to lower retail sales and more promotions.
Consumer Confidence: Lower consumer confidence can result in decreased spending and increased promotional activity.

24. Real-Life Examples of How to Maximize Macy’s Money

Here are some real-life examples of how you can maximize your Macy’s Money:

Scenario 1: A shopper plans to purchase new clothes for the fall season. They wait for a Macy’s Money earning period and spend $200, earning $40 in Macy’s Money. They then use the Macy’s Money during the redemption period to purchase a new coat, saving $40 on their purchase.
Scenario 2: A family needs to buy school supplies for their children. They take advantage of a “no hurry” shipping promotion and split their $100 purchase into four separate orders, earning $40 in Macy’s Money.
Scenario 3: A customer wants to purchase a new kitchen appliance. They combine a Macy’s coupon with their Macy’s Money, saving a total of $75 on their purchase.

25. Ethical Considerations When Using Macy’s Money

While loyalty programs like Macy’s Money can be beneficial, it’s important to use them ethically. Avoid engaging in behaviors that could be considered fraudulent or abusive, such as:

Returning Items to Re-Earn Rewards: Purchasing items solely to earn Macy’s Money and then returning them.
Creating Multiple Accounts: Creating multiple accounts to exploit promotional offers.
Misusing Coupons: Using coupons or promo codes that you are not eligible for.

26. The Legal Aspects of Macy’s Money

Macy’s Money is subject to legal regulations and consumer protection laws. Macy’s is required to clearly disclose the terms and conditions of the program, including earning rates, redemption periods, and exclusions.

Consumers have the right to file complaints with regulatory agencies if they believe Macy’s has violated the terms of the program or engaged in deceptive practices.

27. Tips for Budgeting and Saving With Macy’s Money

Macy’s Money can be a valuable tool for budgeting and saving money. Here are some tips for using Macy’s Money effectively:

Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend at Macy’s each month.
Track Your Spending: Keep track of your spending to ensure you stay within your budget.
Prioritize Purchases: Focus on purchasing items you need rather than impulse buys.
Plan Your Purchases: Plan your purchases around Macy’s Money earning periods to maximize your rewards.
Redeem Wisely: Use your Macy’s Money to purchase items that fit within your budget.

28. How to Avoid Impulse Buys When Shopping With Macy’s Money

Impulse buying can undermine your efforts to save money with Macy’s Money. Here are some tips for avoiding impulse buys:

Make a List: Create a shopping list before you start browsing online.
Stick to Your List: Only purchase items that are on your list.
Avoid Temptation: Steer clear of sections of the website that are likely to trigger impulse buys.
Take a Break: If you feel tempted to make an impulse buy, take a break and come back later.
Ask Yourself Why: Before making a purchase, ask yourself why you want to buy the item and whether you really need it.

29. The Psychology of Spending: Understanding Your Shopping Habits

Understanding your spending habits is key to making informed financial decisions. Here are some factors that can influence your shopping habits:

Emotions: Emotions like stress, boredom, and sadness can trigger impulse buys.
Social Influence: You may be influenced by the spending habits of your friends, family, or social media influencers.
Advertising: Advertising can create desires for products you don’t need.
Availability: The ease of online shopping can make it easier to make impulse buys.

30. Macy’s Money and Your Credit Score: What You Need to Know

Using Macy’s Money itself does not directly impact your credit score. However, how you manage your credit card and payment habits can indirectly affect your credit score.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Credit Card Usage: If you have a Macy’s credit card, using it responsibly and paying your bills on time can help improve your credit score.
Payment History: Late or missed payments on your Macy’s credit card can negatively impact your credit score.
Credit Utilization: Keeping your credit card balance low relative to your credit limit can help improve your credit score.

31. How Macy’s Money Impacts the Retail Industry

Loyalty programs like Macy’s Money have a significant impact on the retail industry. They help retailers attract and retain customers, increase sales, and gather valuable data about consumer behavior.

Other ways in which Macy’s Money impacts the retail industry include:

Competition: Loyalty programs create competition among retailers to offer the most attractive rewards.
Marketing: Loyalty programs provide retailers with valuable marketing opportunities.
Data Analysis: Loyalty programs generate data that retailers can use to improve their products and services.

32. Alternatives to Traditional Banking: Managing Your Finances Online

In today’s digital age, there are many alternatives to traditional banking that can help you manage your finances online. These alternatives include:

Online Banks: Online banks offer many of the same services as traditional banks, but with lower fees and higher interest rates.
Mobile Payment Apps: Mobile payment apps like Venmo and PayPal make it easy to send and receive money.
Budgeting Apps: Budgeting apps help you track your spending and create a budget.
Investment Apps: Investment apps make it easy to invest in stocks, bonds, and other assets.

33. How to Protect Yourself From Online Shopping Scams

Online shopping scams are a growing concern. Here are some tips for protecting yourself:

Shop at Reputable Websites: Only shop at websites you trust.
Look for the Lock Icon: Ensure the website has a secure connection (HTTPS).
Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Don’t click on links in suspicious emails.
Use Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts.
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts for suspicious activity.

34. Macy’s Money and Your Taxes: What You Need to Know

Generally, Macy’s Money is not considered taxable income. Because it is viewed as a discount or rebate on purchases, it doesn’t need to be reported on your taxes. The IRS doesn’t typically tax rewards programs as long as they’re used for personal purchases.

However, if you receive Macy’s Money as part of a business or promotional activity, it may be subject to taxation. Consult with a tax professional for personalized advice.

35. How to Teach Kids About Saving Money

Teaching kids about saving money is an important life skill. Here are some tips for teaching kids about saving:

Start Early: Start teaching kids about saving money at a young age.
Lead by Example: Show kids how you save money.
Set Goals: Help kids set savings goals.
Provide Allowances: Give kids an allowance and encourage them to save a portion of it.
Offer Incentives: Offer incentives for saving money.

36. Financial Planning for the Future: Setting Long-Term Goals

Financial planning is essential for achieving your long-term goals. Here are some steps to take:

Set Financial Goals: Define your financial goals (e.g., retirement, homeownership, education).
Create a Budget: Develop a budget to track your income and expenses.
Save Regularly: Save a portion of your income each month.
Invest Wisely: Invest in assets that will grow over time.
Review Your Plan: Regularly review your financial plan and make adjustments as needed.

37. Contact Macy’s Customer Support

If you have questions or need assistance with Macy’s Money, you can contact Macy’s customer support through the following channels:

Phone: 1-800-BUY-MACY (1-800-289-6229)
Online Chat: Available on the Macy’s website
Email: Via the contact form on their website
Social Media: Reach out through Macy’s official social media pages

38. Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Macy’s Money

Macy’s Money is a valuable tool for saving money on your purchases. By understanding how the program works and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can maximize your savings and achieve your financial goals. Remember to shop strategically, combine Macy’s Money with other discounts, and stay informed about upcoming promotions.

Ready to take control of your finances? Visit money-central.com for more articles, tools, and resources to help you manage your money wisely and achieve financial freedom.

Address: 44 West Fourth Street, New York, NY 10012, United States
Phone: +1 (212) 998-0000
Website: money-central.com

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Macy’s Money

1. Can I use Macy’s Money to buy gift cards?
No, Macy’s Money cannot be used to purchase gift cards.

2. What happens if I return an item purchased with Macy’s Money?
The Macy’s Money used for the purchase won’t be refunded to your account, but you’ll receive a refund for the amount you paid out of pocket.

3. Can I combine Macy’s Money with other discounts?
Yes, Macy’s Money can typically be combined with other coupons and promo codes.

4. Is there a limit to how much Macy’s Money I can earn?
The amount of Macy’s Money you can earn depends on the specific promotion.

5. Does Macy’s Money expire?
Yes, Macy’s Money has an expiration date. Make sure to redeem it during the redemption period.

6. Do I need a Macy’s account to use Macy’s Money online?
While not mandatory, having a Macy’s account simplifies the redemption process.

7. Can I transfer my Macy’s Money to someone else?
No, Macy’s Money is non-transferable.

8. What should I do if my Macy’s Money code doesn’t work?
Double-check the code, verify the dates, and contact Macy’s customer service if the issue persists.

9. Can I earn Macy’s Money on all products at Macy’s?
No, certain exclusions apply (e.g., Apple products, furniture).

10. How often does Macy’s offer Macy’s Money promotions?
Macy’s typically offers Macy’s Money promotions several times throughout the year, often aligning with major shopping events and holidays.