Gap Inc., one of America’s leading retail corporations, offers a suite of credit cards designed to reward loyal shoppers across its family of brands. Whether you’re a frequent Gap shopper or just considering your retail credit card options, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about Gap credit cards, from their rewards structure to potential drawbacks.
Key Takeaways
- Gap offers four distinct credit cards: Gap Card, Gap Visa Card, Gap Silver Card, and Gap Silver Visa Card
- Earn 5 points per dollar at Gap brands and up to 1 point per dollar elsewhere (with Visa versions)
- No annual fee but high variable APR of 34.49%
- Best suited for frequent Gap brand shoppers who pay balances in full
- Alternative cards may offer better value for general shopping
Types of Gap Credit Cards
Basic Gap Cards
- Gap Store Card
- Can only be used at Gap family brands
- 5 points per dollar spent
- No annual fee
- Requires fair credit for approval
- Gap Visa Card
- Can be used anywhere Visa is accepted
- 5 points at Gap brands, 1 point elsewhere
- No annual fee
- Requires good to excellent credit
- 3,000 bonus points for new cardmembers
Elite Status Cards
- Gap Silver Store Card
- Upgraded version of the basic store card
- Enhanced benefits and shipping perks
- Must earn 5,000 points annually to qualify
- Gap Silver Visa Card
- Premium version with maximum benefits
- Combines Silver status perks with Visa acceptance
- Requires qualification through spending/points
Rewards Program Breakdown
Point Earning Structure
- 5 points per $1 at Gap family brands:
- Gap
- Old Navy
- Banana Republic
- Athleta
- 1 point per $1 on all other purchases (Visa cards only)
- 20% bonus points quarterly (Silver status)
Rewards Value
- 500 points = $5 reward certificate
- Points value: 1 cent per point
- Maximum reward per billing cycle: $250
- Rewards are automatically issued
- Must be used at Gap family brands
Sign-up Bonus
- 20% off first purchase
- 3,000 bonus points for new Visa cardmembers
- Additional 500 points for:
- Enrolling in paperless statements
- Signing up for marketing emails
Additional Benefits
Standard Benefits
- Zero fraud liability
- Birthday surprise gift
- Bonus point shopping days
- Special cardholder events
Silver Status Perks
- Free 3-5 day shipping (use code MYCARD)
- 20% quarterly bonus points
- Free Banana Republic alterations
- Choose Your Own Sale Day
- Priority customer service line
Visa Card Specific Benefits
- Auto rental collision coverage
- Roadside assistance
- Emergency card replacement
- Global card acceptance
Fees and Rates
Key Financial Terms
- Annual Fee: $0
- Purchase APR: 34.49% (Variable)
- Cash Advance APR: 34.49% (Variable)
- Cash Advance Fee: 5% (minimum $10)
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
How to Qualify and Apply
Credit Score Requirements
- Store Card: Fair credit (580-669)
- Visa Card: Good to excellent credit (670+)
- Silver Status: Earn 5,000 points annually
Application Process
- Apply online at Gap.com
- Apply in-store at any Gap location
- Call (800) 308-6008
- Instant decision in most cases
- 7-10 days review for some applications
Card Management
Online Account Access
- View statements and transactions
- Make payments
- Track rewards
- Set up alerts
- Manage paperless settings
Mobile App Features
- iOS app with full account management
- Track points and rewards
- View statements
- Make payments
- Set up notifications
Maximizing Your Gap Card Benefits
Strategic Shopping Tips
- Time purchases during bonus point events
- Stack rewards with Gap cash promotions
- Use rewards before expiration
- Meet Silver status requirements early
- Combine with store sales
Best Practices
- Pay balance in full monthly
- Use card for planned purchases
- Track reward expiration dates
- Monitor bonus point opportunities
- Stack with store promotions
Alternative Cards to Consider
General Cash Back Cards
- Chase Freedom Unlimited
- 1.5% back on all purchases
- 3% on dining and drugstores
- 0% intro APR offers
- No annual fee
- Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
- 3% back on U.S. online retail purchases
- Additional category bonuses
- Welcome bonus
- 0% intro APR period
Store Card Alternatives
- Target RedCard
- 5% off all Target purchases
- Free shipping
- Extended returns
- No annual fee
- Amazon Prime Rewards Visa
- 5% back at Amazon/Whole Foods
- No annual fee (with Prime)
- Metal card design
- Broader acceptance
Conclusion
The Gap credit card can be a valuable addition to your wallet if you frequently shop at Gap brands and consistently pay your balance in full. The rewards program offers solid value for loyal customers, particularly those who achieve Silver status. However, the high APR and limited reward redemption options make it less attractive for general spending.
Consider your shopping habits and financial needs carefully before applying. If you’re not a regular Gap shopper or prefer more flexible rewards, a general cash-back card might better suit your needs. Remember to compare multiple options and read the terms carefully before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my Gap credit card at Old Navy?
A: Yes, Gap credit cards can be used at all Gap Inc. brands, including Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta.
Q: How do I get free shipping with my Gap Silver Card?
A: Use code “MYCARD” at checkout to receive free 3-5 day shipping on online orders.
Q: What credit score do I need for a Gap credit card?
A: The Gap Store Card typically requires fair credit (580+), while the Gap Visa Card requires good to excellent credit (670+).
Q: How do I make payments on my Gap credit card?
A: Payments can be made online through your account portal, by phone, or by mail. In-store payments are not accepted.
Q: How do I qualify for Gap Silver status?
A: Earn 5,000 reward points (excluding bonus points) within a calendar year and maintain good account standing.
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