Yes, Walmart offers two credit cards through Capital One

Walmart has two co-branded credit cards issued by Capital One: the Walmart Rewards Card (a standard Mastercard) and the Walmart Rewards Card from Capital One (a store card that works only at Walmart and Walmart.com). Both cards earn rewards on purchases, but they have different earning rates, annual fees, and where you can use them.

The store card typically offers higher rewards rates at Walmart locations and online, while the Mastercard works anywhere Mastercard is accepted but with lower earning rates outside Walmart. Neither card charges an annual fee, which makes them accessible for shoppers who want rewards without paying to carry the card.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart offers a store card (Walmart Rewards Card) that earns rewards only at Walmart and Walmart.com, and a Mastercard version that works everywhere but earns less at Walmart.
  • Both cards have no annual fee and offer cash back or points on purchases, with higher earning rates on Walmart purchases.
  • The store card typically earns 3% cash back at Walmart gas stations and 2% at Walmart stores, while the Mastercard earns 1% everywhere.
  • You need to meet Capital One's credit requirements to be approved, which vary based on your credit history and income.
  • Both cards report to the three major credit bureaus, so responsible use can help build your credit history.

Walmart Rewards Card (store card) versus Walmart Rewards Mastercard

The Walmart Rewards Card (store card) earns rewards only when you shop at Walmart stores, Walmart.com, and Walmart gas stations. This card typically earns 3% cash back at Walmart gas stations, 2% at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, and 1% everywhere else. Because it only works at Walmart locations and online, it is useful primarily if you do most of your grocery and household shopping there.

The Walmart Rewards Card from Capital One (Mastercard) works anywhere Mastercard is accepted — at other grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online retailers. It typically earns 1% cash back on all purchases, with no bonus category. This card is better if you want a single rewards card for everyday spending across multiple retailers, though the earning rate is lower than the store card at Walmart.

Both cards have no annual fee. The choice between them depends on where you spend most of your money: if Walmart is your primary shopping destination, the store card offers better rewards; if you shop at multiple retailers, the Mastercard provides more flexibility.

How the rewards work on both cards

Both Walmart cards earn cash back, not points. Cash back typically posts to your account monthly and can be used as a statement credit, redeemed for Walmart purchases, or transferred to a linked bank account. The exact redemption options depend on which card you hold and may vary over time, so check your cardholder agreement for current details.

Rewards are calculated on the purchase amount before taxes. If you return an item, the cash back earned on that purchase is reversed. There is no cap on how much cash back you can earn, and cash back does not expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing.

Credit requirements and the approval process

Capital One does not publish a specific credit score requirement for either Walmart card, but both cards are generally available to people with fair credit and above. If you have limited credit history or a lower score, you may still be approved, though your credit limit may be lower. Capital One reviews factors including your credit score, income, existing debts, and payment history.

You can check if you pre-may have access to for either card on Walmart's website or Capital One's site without affecting your credit score. A hard inquiry occurs only when you formally explore. The approval decision typically comes within minutes to a few business days. If you are denied, Capital One will send you a letter explaining the reasons, and you can request a reconsideration or reapply after addressing the issues mentioned.

How these cards affect your credit

Both Walmart cards report to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, so they can help build your credit history if you use them responsibly. Opening a new card temporarily lowers your credit score because of the hard inquiry and the new account, but this effect usually fades within a few months. Over time, a card with a good payment history and low balance relative to your credit limit can improve your score.

Missing a payment or carrying a high balance will damage your credit. If you carry a balance, you will pay interest at the card's current APR, which varies based on your creditworthiness and market conditions. Paying your full statement balance by the due date avoids interest charges and keeps your credit utilization low.

Where to explore for a Walmart credit card

You can explore for either Walmart card directly through Walmart.com, through Capital One's website, or in some Walmart stores. The online process takes about 10 minutes and asks for your name, address, income, employment status, and Social Security number. You will receive a decision when ready or within a few business days.

If you are approved, the store card is usually activated when ready and can be used in-store or online right away. The Mastercard is mailed to you, typically arriving within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping in some cases. Once you receive the card, you must set up it before using it, usually by calling the number on the back or activating it online.

Comparing Walmart cards to other grocery and warehouse cards

Other grocery chains and warehouse clubs offer their own credit cards with different rewards structures. For example, some cards earn higher cash back at specific retailers or offer bonus categories like gas or dining. If you shop at multiple stores, comparing the earning rates across your regular shopping destinations helps you decide whether a Walmart card or a different card makes sense for your spending.

A general-purpose cash back card with no annual fee might be a better fit if you split your spending across many retailers and want simplicity. A store card makes the most sense if Walmart is where you spend the majority of your grocery and household budget. Some people carry multiple cards to maximize rewards at different stores, though this requires tracking multiple due dates and balances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Walmart store card outside of Walmart?

The Walmart Rewards Card (store card) works only at Walmart stores, Walmart.com, and Walmart gas stations. If you need a card that works everywhere, you would need the Walmart Rewards Mastercard instead. Some people carry both cards for this reason.

What is the APR on Walmart credit cards?

The APR varies based on your creditworthiness and current market rates. Capital One will disclose the APR you may have access to for before you formally explore. You can avoid paying interest by paying your full statement balance by the due date each month.

Do I need a Walmart credit card to earn rewards at Walmart?

No. Walmart also offers a Walmart+ membership program and a Walmart app that earn rewards on purchases without requiring a credit card. The credit card is one option among several ways to earn rewards at Walmart.

What happens if I miss a payment on my Walmart card?

A missed payment will be reported to the credit bureaus after 30 days and will damage your credit score. You will also be charged a late fee. If you miss a payment, contact Capital One as soon as possible to bring your account current and discuss options.

Can I transfer a balance from another credit card to a Walmart card?

Balance transfer options vary and are not always available on Walmart cards. Check the current offer details on Walmart's website or Capital One's site, or contact Capital One directly to ask whether balance transfers are available on the card you are interested in.