Coding Rhodes 
Confused about whether to apply for the Walmart Credit Card 🏪 or the Walmart Mastercard? This detailed guide compares both cards to help you decide based on your shopping habits, credit needs, and perks.
🔍 Article Summary
Walmart offers two credit options: the in-store Walmart Credit Card and the Walmart Mastercard. Both reward loyal shoppers, but each has unique benefits and limitations. This guide explains them in detail so you can choose wisely.
📌 Understanding the Basics
| Feature | Walmart Credit Card | Walmart Mastercard |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Only at Walmart & Walmart.com | Anywhere Mastercard is accepted |
| Issuer | Capital One | Capital One |
| Approval Difficulty | Easier for fair credit | Requires good credit |
| Rewards | Same as Mastercard (on Walmart purchases) | More versatile |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Interest Rate | Varies (higher for in-store card) | Varies |
🛍️ Rewards Program Breakdown
Both cards share the same Walmart rewards system:
- 5% back on Walmart.com and the Walmart app
- 2% back on Walmart stores, Murphy USA, and Walmart fuel stations
- 1% back everywhere else (only with Walmart Mastercard)
However, the Walmart Credit Card is limited to Walmart-related purchases, while the Walmart Mastercard gives you rewards anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
🎯 Ideal for:
- Walmart Credit Card: Frequent Walmart shoppers with fair credit
- Walmart Mastercard: Shoppers with good credit who also spend outside Walmart
💰 Rewards Comparison Table
| Purchase Location | Walmart Credit Card | Walmart Mastercard |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart.com | 5% | 5% |
| Walmart App | 5% | 5% |
| Walmart Store | 2% | 2% |
| Gas Stations (Walmart/Murphy USA) | 2% | 2% |
| Anywhere Else | N/A | 1% |
📝 Application Process
Applying for either card is easy and done through Walmart’s Capital One Portal. You’ll fill out your basic information, and you’ll instantly be told whether you’re approved for the in-store credit card or the Mastercard.
Tip: If your credit score is below 640, you’ll likely be approved only for the store card.
🛡️ Security & Fraud Protection
- Capital One powers both cards and offers:
- $0 fraud liability
- Virtual card numbers (for online shopping)
- 24/7 fraud alerts
📱 Mobile App and Management
You can manage both cards via:
- Capital One Mobile App (track spending, rewards, pay bills)
- Walmart App (view recent purchases, manage rewards)
Both options allow easy mobile payments, alerts, and card lock features.
🧾 Pros & Cons
Walmart Credit Card (In-Store Only)
Pros:
- Easier approval
- 5% rewards online
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Limited to Walmart
- High APR
Walmart Mastercard
Pros:
- Can be used anywhere
- Broader reward options
- Travel and rental car protections
Cons:
- Requires good credit
- Rewards may not be as high outside Walmart
🧠 Real-Life Use Cases
Case 1: Ashley – College Student on Budget
Ashley mostly shops online at Walmart and uses the pickup option. She has fair credit. The Walmart Credit Card gives her 5% back and approval was easy.
Case 2: Brian – Family Man
Brian shops both at Walmart and other stores like Costco and Target. He qualified for the Walmart Mastercard, which he uses for fuel and groceries everywhere.
🧮 Reward Scenario Example
| Category | Monthly Spend | Walmart Credit Card | Walmart Mastercard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart.com | $200 | $10 | $10 |
| Walmart Store | $300 | $6 | $6 |
| Gas Station | $100 | $2 | $2 |
| Other Spending | $400 | N/A | $4 |
| Monthly Total | — | $18 | $22 |
❓ FAQ
1. Can I upgrade my Walmart Credit Card to the Walmart Mastercard later?
Yes, Capital One may offer an upgrade over time if your credit improves.
2. Does either card charge foreign transaction fees?
Yes, a 3% foreign transaction fee applies to both.
3. Is there a welcome bonus?
Yes! New cardholders get 5% back in Walmart stores for the first 12 months when using Walmart Pay.
4. Can I use the Walmart Credit Card at Sam’s Club?
No, only the Mastercard works at Sam’s Club.
5. What credit score do I need?
- Walmart Credit Card: 580+ (fair)
- Walmart Mastercard: 640+ (good)
📌 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Walmart Credit Card if: You shop mostly at Walmart, have fair credit, and want to start building credit history.
- Choose Walmart Mastercard if: You want more flexibility, shop both in and outside Walmart, and have a stronger credit profile.
Both are excellent no-fee options—but the right one for you depends on how and where you spend.
📣 Pro Tip: Combine with Other Apps
Use Ibotta, Rakuten, or Dosh alongside your Walmart card to double up on rewards!
#WalmartCreditCard #CreditCardComparison #FinanceTips #ShoppingSmart
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