Kohl’s Credit Card Application: Learn the Step-by-Step

Kohl’s is a major retailer in 49 states. It operates 1,100 department stores and offers a smooth online shopping experience via its app. 

They offer a Kohl’s credit card in partnership with Capital One. This card benefits regular shoppers with discounts and a chance to become the Most Valued Customer upon spending $600 annually. 

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To apply for this card and enjoy shopping benefits, simply follow the application steps provided.

5 Things to Know Before Applying for Kohl’s Credit Card

If you’re considering a Kohl’s Credit Card, remember it’s only for use at Kohl’s and has a high APR. It offers exclusive rewards and discounts, but managing them can be tricky.

Kohl’s has a large presence in the U.S., with over 1,100 stores in 49 states—Hawaii excluded. They sell various items, from clothes and shoes to housewares and gifts.

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In partnership with Capital One, the card suits regular customers looking to economize. However, maximizing its benefits requires attention to frequent sales and promotions, and rewards expire quickly in just one month.

Here are five things to know about the Kohl’s Card.

1. It’s Not Just a Charge Card, It’s a Credit Card

The card you know as the Kohl’s Charge is a store credit card. Unlike charge cards, which you must pay off completely each month, this credit card allows you to carry a balance over time, adding interest to any unpaid amounts. Specifically, the Kohl’s Card is a “closed-loop” card, which means it is only valid at Kohl’s stores.

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In March 2022, Kohl’s and Capital One indicated plans to introduce a new co-branded card as soon as 2023, though they have not shared further specifics.

2. You’ll Enjoy Savings and Coupons

Kohl’s Cardholders benefit from various discounts and rewards. 

For instance, the Target Circle™ Credit Card offers a consistent discount on purchases, whereas the Kohl’s Card rewards you with Kohl’s Cash, which can be used later. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Initial Discounts: New Kohl’s Cardholders can enjoy a one-time discount on their first purchase, typically an extra 35% off, which must be used within two weeks of card approval.
  • Kohls CC Coupons: As a cardholder, you receive exclusive monthly discounts either by mail or digitally through the Kohl’s Wallet in the Kohl’s app. This wallet organizes all your offers, eliminating the need for physical coupons. Note that these discounts do not apply to certain brands and categories.
  • Kohl’s Rewards: This loyalty program is separate from the credit card. Generally, members earn 5% back in Kohl’s Cash, but this rate increases to 7.5% with the Kohl’s Card. However, be aware that Kohl’s Cash from purchases expires after 30 days.
  • Kohl’s Cash: During promotions, every $50 spent earns you a $10 Kohl’s Cash coupon, redeemable within specific future dates. This encourages return visits. Kohl’s Cash usually has fewer restrictions than Kohl’s coupons, although it cannot be earned or redeemed on gift cards or specific products like “Sephora at Kohl’s.”
  • Additional Perks: Cardholders are also privy to advance sales notifications and can return items without a receipt if purchased with a Kohl’s Card.

This system intertwines card benefits with ongoing store promotions, optimizing savings for regular shoppers.

3. Spending Bigger Means Earning Status

Spend $600 annually on your Kohls credit card to achieve Most Valued Customer status. This status grants you extra savings and special offers throughout the year. 

Enjoy exclusive free shipping events, and combine these with other Kohl’s deals and cash.

4. You Don’t Want to Carry a Balance

Carrying a balance on the Kohl credit Card is not advisable due to its high annual percentage rate (APR). The APR stands at 26.24% as of May 2022, making it costly to maintain unpaid balances. 

Always spend within your budget to ensure you can clear the balance monthly and avoid significant interest charges.

5. Easier Steps to Check If You Qualify

You can check your eligibility for a Kohl’s Card without affecting your credit score. Go to the Kohl’s Card credit area on their website and click the pre-qualification link

Provide your name, address, Social Security number, and birthdate. You’ll instantly learn if you pre-qualify without a hard inquiry on your credit report. If you don’t pre-qualify, it’s best not to apply. 

If you do, you’ll get a pre-qualification code right away. Use this code to apply for the card within the specified deadline.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Apply Online

To start your online application, go directly to Kohl’s website. If you’re unsure of the URL, quickly searching for “Kohl’s card” will help you find it.

  • The application process is streamlined and quick. Typically, getting approval once you’ve submitted your application takes about one minute.
  • When shopping on Kohls.com, some customers might see a pop-up indicating they are pre-qualified for a Kohl’s charge card. If you get this notification, simply click “Apply Now.” This will direct you to the application page. Keep in mind that being pre-qualified does not guarantee approval.

Agreeing to an Electronic Disclosure

Consent to electronic disclosures is required to start your application. 

  • You must agree to receive digital versions of Kohl’s Account Opening Disclosures, Cardmember Agreement, and Credit Card Privacy Policy. Click the green “Continue” button to confirm your agreement.
  • Once you’ve consented, you can begin the application. If you have a personal offer code, enter it on the following screen. If not, just click the green “continue” button to move forward with your application.

Filling Out Your Personal Information

On the initial page of the application, you need to provide your personal details. Capital One ensures your data remains confidential, confirming that your personal information won’t be disclosed to third parties for marketing use. You will need to enter:

  • First and last name
  • Full address: city, state, and zip code
  • Phone number, either home or mobile
  • Email address
  • Social security number
  • Date of birth
  • Annual gross income

Terms and Conditions

Enter your personal information, then scroll to the bottom of the page. 

Here, the site outlines the card’s interest rates and charges, including late payment and returned payment fees, capped at $35 each. It also provides compliance details for the USA PATRIOT Act.

  • As of November 2015, the annual percentage rate (APR) for purchases is 23.99%. If a minimum payment is missed or declined, a penalty APR of 26.99% is applied.
  • Ensure you have read the terms, conditions, and disclosures thoroughly. After entering your personal details accurately, select the checkbox at the bottom of the screen to show your consent.

To proceed, click the green “continue” button at the screen’s bottom.

Approval Duration

our application is usually approved or denied in 60 seconds or less. Taking too long to fill it out could lead to a timeout, requiring you to restart the entire process. 

Once approved, expect your new Kohl’s card to arrive in the mail within a few weeks.

In-Store Application

To find a Kohl’s store near you, go to Kohls.com and select “store locator” at the top right of the homepage. 

This directs you to a regional map where you can share your current location or input your city or zip code. 

Searching by state is also an option to view all Kohl’s locations across each U.S..

Reach Out for Assistance

To get a paper application at Kohl’s, simply ask any cashier or customer service agent in the store. 

They can provide you with the form. Consider filling out the application before shopping to avoid delaying the checkout process.

Complete the Application

To complete the paper application, you must provide personal details like those on the online form. 

Once approved, this method lets you immediately utilize a 15% discount on any purchase today. Ensure to fill in the following details:

  • Full name (first and last)
  • Home address
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Social Security number
  • Date of birth
  • Annual gross income

This straightforward process ensures you get the necessary benefits right away.

Temporary Card

Your Kohl’s card will be mailed to you a few weeks after approval. 

You can get a temporary card from a cashier to start making in-store and online purchases while you wait for your official Capital One-issued card.

Contact Information for Assistance

Need help with your Kohl’s card or orders? Call 855-564-5705 for Kohls.com or order inquiries and 855-564-5748 for questions about your Kohl’s Card or payments. 

You can also mail Kohl’s at P.O. Box 60043, City of Industry, CA 91716, or P.O. Box 1456, Charlotte, NC 28201.

Conclusion

Kohl’s enhances your shopping experience with the Kohl’s Card, offering significant savings and exclusive benefits. 

If you’re a frequent shopper, aim to become a Most Valued Customer by spending $600 annually, but keep an eye on the high APR. If you have any questions, call customer service or use the mailing addresses provided.

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and may be subject to changes.