Store credit cards can be an easy way to build credit, earn rewards, and save money on purchases at your favorite retailers. If you’ve ever been offered a credit card at checkout, there’s a good chance it was issued by Comenity Bank—now known as Bread Financial.

Comenity specializes in retail-branded credit cards, partnering with over 170 stores across fashion, furniture, home improvement, and more. Many of these cards come with perks like exclusive discounts, special financing, and loyalty rewards. Some are even available with a soft credit check, making them accessible for people with lower credit scores.
Before you apply, it’s worth knowing which Comenity credit cards offer the best benefits. Some come with valuable rewards, while others are less rewarding and could end up costing you more than they’re worth. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular Comenity credit cards, highlight the best options, and help you decide if one of these cards is right for you.
Comenity Bank: A Brief Overview
Comenity Bank, now known as Bread Financial, is one of the largest issuers of store credit cards, partnering with over 170 retailers. With more than 50 million cardholders, it provides accessible credit options, especially for those with lower credit scores.
One of its standout features is the “shopping cart trick,” which allows some applicants to get pre-approved for a credit card without a hard inquiry on their credit report. This makes Comenity cards a popular choice for people looking to build or rebuild credit.
Beyond credit approval, these cards often come with store-specific perks like discounts, rewards, and special financing. However, not all Comenity cards offer the same benefits, and some may have higher interest rates or fewer rewards than other options.
Before applying, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and find a card that aligns with your financial goals.
Comenity Bank Retail Store Credit Cards
These credit cards are designed for shoppers at popular clothing, department, and specialty stores. Many of them offer store-specific discounts, early access to sales, and loyalty rewards.
- Abercrombie & Fitch
- Ann Taylor
- Ann Taylor Mastercard
- Ashley Stewart
- Avenue
- Buckle
- Catherines
- Coldwater Creek
- Dressbarn
- Eddie Bauer
- Express
- Forever 21
- Hot Topic
- J.Jill
- Jessica London
- KingSize
- Lane Bryant
- LOFT
- Mandee
- Maurices
- New York & Company
- PacSun
- Roaman’s
- Torrid
- Venus
- Victoria’s Secret
Comenity Bank Jewelry Store Credit Cards
If you’re shopping for fine jewelry, these credit cards can offer financing options and special rewards.
- Blue Nile
- Crescent Jewelers Inc.
- Friedman’s Jewelers
- Iddeal
- Little Switzerland Jewels
- Piercing Pagoda
- Reeds Jewelers
- Samuels Diamonds
- Zales
Comenity Bank Furniture and Home Goods Credit Cards
These credit cards are ideal for home improvement projects and furniture purchases, often providing financing offers and discounts.
- American Signature Furniture
- Arhaus Archarge
- Bed Bath & Beyond
- Crate & Barrel
- El Dorado Furniture
- IKEA Visa Credit Card
- Levin Furniture
- Pier 1 Imports
- Restoration Hardware
- RoomPlace
- Tile Shop
- Value City Furniture
- Z Gallerie
Comenity Bank Gas, Travel, and Wholesale Club Credit Cards
For frequent travelers and wholesale shoppers, these cards offer gas discounts, hotel perks, and cash back opportunities.
- Alon
- BJ’s Credit Card
- Caesars Rewards
- Camping World/Good Sam
- Fuel Rewards
- Gander Mountain
- Giant Eagle
- Goody’s
- Red Roof Inn
- True Value
- Westgate Resorts
Comenity Bank Medical and Specialty Credit Cards
These credit cards are designed for medical expenses, elective procedures, and financing wellness-related purchases.
- ALPHAEON
- American Laser Skincare
- Cosmeticredit
- H3 WellnessPlus
- HealthiPlan
- LendingClub
- Lifestyle Lift
- MedChoice
- My Smile Care
- Your Tuition Solution
Other Comenity Bank Credit Cards
Some Comenity cards don’t fit neatly into a single category, but still offer rewards and perks.
- Bon-Ton
- Boscov’s
- BrylaneHome
- Domestications
- Farmers Insurance Visa Card
- FullBeauty
- iComfort
- Lenovo
- Meijer
- Modell’s
- Motorola
- MyPoints
- Orchard Supply Hardware
- Overton’s
- Peebles
- Preferred Client
- Saturday Night Live
- Sephora
- Smile Generation Financial
- Spiegel
- Sportman’s Guide
- Stage Stores
- The Company Store
- Tog Shop
- UBG
- Venue
- Vintage King Audio
- Winter Silks
- Woman Within
- Ulta Beauty
- Univision
Benefits of Comenity Bank Credit Cards
Comenity Bank credit cards appeal to many shoppers because of their accessibility, store-specific perks, and potential to help build credit. While not all Comenity cards offer the same benefits, here are some of the key reasons people choose them.
Easier Approval, Even With Lower Credit Scores
Many Comenity credit cards are available to people with fair or even poor credit. Some can be obtained without a hard credit check using the shopping cart trick, where a pre-approved offer pops up during online checkout. This makes them an option for those looking to establish or rebuild credit.
Store-Specific Discounts and Rewards
Most Comenity cards offer exclusive savings at their respective retailers. Common perks include:
- A discount on your first purchase (often 10% to 20%)
- Special financing on larger purchases
- Bonus rewards or cashback for store spending
- Birthday rewards and exclusive sales access
Credit Limit Increases Over Time
Comenity cardholders often receive automatic credit limit increases after making on-time payments. While these limits usually start low (around $500), responsible use can lead to a higher credit line, which may help improve your credit utilization ratio.
No Annual Fee on Most Cards
Unlike some premium rewards cards, most Comenity store credit cards have no annual fee. This makes them a cost-effective way to take advantage of store perks, as long as you pay off the balance each month to avoid high interest charges.
Potential Downsides of Comenity Bank Credit Cards
While Comenity Bank credit cards offer easy approval and store perks, they also come with some drawbacks that might not make them the best choice for everyone. Before applying, it’s important to consider the following downsides.
High Interest Rates
Most Comenity credit cards have higher-than-average APRs, often well above 25%. If you don’t pay your balance in full each month, interest charges can quickly add up, wiping out any rewards or discounts you earn. These cards work best for people who can pay off their purchases right away.
Limited Use Outside of the Store
Many Comenity cards are closed-loop, meaning they can only be used at the specific retailer that issued them. While some Comenity cards, like the IKEA Visa and Farmers Insurance Visa, can be used anywhere, most are only valid at one store, limiting their flexibility compared to general rewards credit cards.
Customer Service Complaints
Comenity has received frequent complaints about customer service issues, including difficulty resolving billing disputes and long wait times for phone support. Some cardholders have also reported problems with payments being processed late, leading to unexpected late fees and negative impacts on their credit scores.
Rewards Can Be Restrictive
Unlike cash-back credit cards that allow you to redeem rewards anywhere, most Comenity store cards only let you use rewards at the issuing retailer. Some cards also have expiration dates on rewards, meaning you could lose them if you don’t use them quickly enough.
Automatic Account Closures
Comenity is known for closing inactive accounts without warning. If you don’t use your card for several months, there’s a chance your account could be closed, which may negatively impact your credit score by reducing your available credit and increasing your credit utilization ratio.
Pre-Approval Doesn’t Guarantee Approval
While the shopping cart trick can allow some people to get approved without a hard credit check, pre-approval doesn’t guarantee final approval. Some applicants have reported being denied after completing the application, despite receiving a pre-approved offer.
Top Picks: The Best Comenity Bank Store Credit Cards
With over 130 Comenity Bank credit cards available, some stand out more than others. Whether you’re looking for store discounts, rewards, or financing options, the best card for you depends on your shopping habits. Below are some of the most popular Comenity credit cards, along with their key benefits and potential downsides.
IKEA Visa Credit Card
Best for: Frequent IKEA shoppers and home improvement projects
Pros:
- 5% back in rewards on all IKEA purchases, including Traemand installation and TaskRabbit assembly services
- 3% back on dining, groceries, and utilities
- 1% back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Rewards can only be redeemed at IKEA
- Limited benefits outside of IKEA-related spending
- High APR if you carry a balance
Many IKEA shoppers love the extra 5% back on purchases, especially those furnishing a new home or remodeling. However, some cardholders have noted that rewards can take a while to process, and they wish they could redeem them for cash back instead of just IKEA purchases.
BJ’s Perks Elite Mastercard
Best for: Bulk shoppers who frequently buy at BJ’s Wholesale Club
Pros:
- 5% cash back on BJ’s purchases (for Perks Elite members)
- 2% back on dining and gas purchases
- 10 cents off per gallon at BJ’s gas stations
- No annual fee (but requires a BJ’s membership)
Cons:
- Rewards can only be used at BJ’s
- Requires a BJ’s Wholesale membership
- Cash back redemption minimums apply
Cardholders appreciate the high rewards rate at BJ’s, especially for groceries and bulk purchases. Some users, however, feel restricted by the limited redemption options, as rewards can’t be used for statement credits or cash back.
Victoria’s Secret Credit Card
Best for: Frequent shoppers at Victoria’s Secret and PINK
Pros:
- 10 points per $1 spent (15 points per $1 for VIP members)
- Triple points on bra purchases
- Birthday rewards ($10 for All-Access, $15 for VIP)
- Exclusive discounts and early access to sales
Cons:
- Can only be used at Victoria’s Secret and PINK
- High APR for those who carry a balance
- VIP status requires spending $750 annually
Loyal Victoria’s Secret shoppers love the frequent rewards and birthday gifts. Some have expressed frustration with the high APR, recommending that the card is only worth it if you pay off the balance each month.
Farmers Insurance Visa Card
Best for: Earning rewards on insurance, gas, and home improvement purchases
Pros:
- 3 points per $1 spent on Farmers products, gas, and home improvement
- 0% intro APR for 12 months
- No annual fee
- Points never expire
Cons:
- Rewards are not as flexible as cash back
- After the intro period, APR can be high
- Limited travel or luxury perks
Many cardholders use this card for gas and home improvement purchases, appreciating the solid rewards rate. However, some feel the redemption options aren’t as strong compared to general rewards credit cards.
Ann Taylor Mastercard
Best for: Shoppers at Ann Taylor, LOFT, and related brands
Pros:
- 5 points per $1 spent at Ann Taylor and LOFT stores
- 2 points per $1 spent at grocery stores and gas stations
- $20 rewards card for every 2,000 points earned
- 15% off your first purchase
Cons:
- Can only be used at Ann Inc. stores
- Rewards expire if not used in time
- Points accumulation can be slow for casual shoppers
Fans of Ann Taylor and LOFT appreciate the consistent discounts and rewards, but some note that points expire too quickly, making it tough to maximize benefits unless they shop frequently.
Is a Comenity Bank card the right choice for you?
Comenity Bank credit cards can be a good fit for certain shoppers, but they aren’t the best option for everyone. Whether one of these cards makes sense depends on your shopping habits, financial situation, and credit goals.
Who Might Benefit from a Comenity Card?
- Frequent shoppers at a specific retailer – If you regularly shop at a store that offers a Comenity credit card, the exclusive discounts and rewards could be worthwhile.
- People looking to build or rebuild credit – Many Comenity cards have lower credit score requirements, and some can be obtained while avoiding a hard inquiry.
- Shoppers who pay off their balance every month – Since Comenity cards often have high interest rates, they’re best for those who don’t carry a balance and can avoid finance charges.
Who Should Think Twice?
- Anyone who carries a balance – The high APRs on most Comenity cards make them a poor choice if you plan to finance purchases over time.
- Those who prefer flexible rewards – Unlike general rewards credit cards, Comenity cards usually restrict rewards to store purchases. If you prefer cash back or travel rewards, other cards may be a better fit.
- People who don’t shop at the issuing store often – If you only visit the retailer occasionally, the benefits of a Comenity card may not be worth the hassle of managing another account.
Final Thoughts
Comenity Bank credit cards can be useful for shoppers who frequently buy from a specific retailer and want to take advantage of store discounts, rewards, or financing options. Many of these cards are easier to qualify for, making them a potential choice for people looking to build or rebuild credit. However, they also come with high interest rates, limited redemption options, and customer service concerns, so they’re best suited for those who pay off their balances in full each month.
Before applying, compare the benefits of a Comenity card with other credit card options. In many cases, a general rewards credit card may offer better value, lower interest rates, and more flexibility for everyday spending.
If you do choose a Comenity card, focus on responsible use—making on-time payments, avoiding interest charges, and keeping your balance low. This can help improve your credit over time, eventually allowing you to qualify for a card with stronger rewards, better perks, and more spending flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do you need for a Comenity Bank credit card?
Most Comenity Bank credit cards require a credit score of at least 640, which falls into the fair credit range. However, some cards may be available to applicants with lower scores.
For Comenity cards that are co-branded with Visa or Mastercard, such as the IKEA Visa Credit Card or Farmers Insurance Visa Card, a higher credit score (typically 700 or above) may be required. These cards offer more flexibility since they can be used anywhere, unlike store-only Comenity credit cards.
Even if your credit score meets the requirements, approval is not guaranteed. Comenity also considers income, existing debts, and payment history when making a decision.
How hard is it to get a Comenity credit card?
Comenity credit cards are generally considered easy to obtain. The majority of these cards are store-specific and can only be used at the associated retailer. The good news is that most of these cards typically require only a fair credit score for approval.
How many Comenity cards can you have?
There’s no official limit on the number of Comenity Bank credit cards you can own, but each new application could affect your credit score. Keep in mind that having multiple cards increases the risk of accumulating debt and could make managing your finances more complex.
Can I request a credit limit increase on a Comenity Bank credit card?
Yes, Comenity Bank allows cardholders to request a credit limit increase, but approvals are not guaranteed. Some accounts may automatically receive increases after several months of responsible use, such as making on-time payments and keeping balances low. If you request an increase, Comenity may perform a hard inquiry on your credit report, which could temporarily lower your credit score.
What happens if I don’t use my Comenity Bank credit card?
Comenity Bank is known for closing inactive accounts, sometimes without warning. If you don’t use your card for several months, you risk having the account closed, which could impact your credit score by reducing your available credit and increasing your credit utilization ratio. If you want to keep your account open, consider making a small purchase every few months and paying it off in full.
Does Comenity Bank offer balance transfers?
Most Comenity store credit cards do not offer balance transfer options. These cards are primarily designed for purchases at specific retailers and do not function like traditional rewards or general-use credit cards. If you’re looking for a balance transfer option, a card from a major issuer like Chase, Citi, or Discover may be a better fit.
Can I convert my Comenity store credit card to a different Comenity card?
No, Comenity does not allow cardholders to switch their store credit cards to a different Comenity-issued card. If you want a different store’s credit card, you will need to apply separately, which could result in another hard inquiry on your credit report.
What should I do if my Comenity card is closed due to inactivity?
If your Comenity card is closed due to inactivity, there’s no way to reopen the same account. However, you can apply for a new card if you still want to use a Comenity-issued credit card. Keep in mind that a new application will involve a credit check, and approval is not guaranteed.
Does Comenity Bank report to all three credit bureaus?
Yes, Comenity Bank reports to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, which means responsible use of a Comenity card can help build your credit. However, late payments, high balances, or account closures can also negatively impact your credit score.
How long does it take to receive a Comenity credit card after approval?
Once approved, you can expect to receive your Comenity credit card within 7 to 10 business days. Some retailers may provide an instant-use option for online shopping before your physical card arrives. If your card doesn’t arrive within two weeks, contact Comenity’s customer service for assistance.
Can I pay my Comenity Bank credit card in-store?
Some Comenity credit cards allow in-store payments, but this depends on the retailer. Many Comenity-issued cards require payments to be made online, by phone, or via mail. Check with the specific store or Comenity’s website to see if in-store payments are an option for your card.