Introduction
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the four Old Navy credit cards available. It examines the similarities and differences between each card, the fees and drawbacks associated with them, the rewards program, and the application process. Additionally, it discusses why an alternative card may be more suitable, particularly in order to avoid the high Annual %age Rate (APR) associated with these cards.
Old Navy Credit Card: A Glimpse
All 4 above cards are co-branded, rewards-based credit cards that Old Navy (through Gap Inc.) offers and Barclays issues.
The table also shows that there are two main categories of Old Navy cards:
- Basic Old Navy Cards – Old Navy Card and Old Navy Visa Card are the base-level credit cards of the brand. The Old Navy Credit Card is a store-branded card associated with Gap Inc., allowing users to use it at Gap Inc. stores. It offers 5 points for every $1 spent across all Gap Inc. brands, a $5 reward for every 500 points earned, exclusive offers all through the year, beforehand admission to popular sales, and zero fraud obligations. Customers can also receive 30% off their first purchase. The Visa Card for Old Navy is a basic upgrade from the store-branded Visa Card, offering the same benefits as the Visa cardholders, but with the added bonus of earning 1 point for every $1 spent wherever Visa is accepted. Old Navy Visa Cardholders also enjoy special offers and promos.
- “Navyist ” Status Cards – The Navyist Card and Navyist visa card are Old Navy status cards that require rewards members to earn 5k points in a calendar year, pay the minimum due date, and maintain good standing. Upgradation to Navyist status is processed within 90-120 days, and members must re-qualify every year. Navyist cardholders enjoy additional benefits, including 5 points for every dollar spent across Gap Inc. brands, a $5 reward for every 500 points earned, exclusive offers, early access to popular sales, and zero fraud liability. They also receive free 3-to-5-day shipping on online orders from Gap Inc., Old Navy, and Banana Republic brands, 20% bonus points each quarter, and free basic alterations on Banana Republic purchases. The Navyist card is exclusively available at Gap Inc., Banana Republic, and Athleta brands.
Old Navy Credit Card Rewards: The Detailed Guide
The Gap Inc. Credit Card rewards program, which is distinct from the Bright Rewards program, provides members with the opportunity to earn five points for every dollar spent across the brands included in its family. Points can be earned either in-store or online, and may also be earned through direct phone or mail service. This program covers the following brands: Athleta; babyGap; Banana Republic; Gap; GapBody; GapKids; Gap Factory Store; Gap Maternity; Gap Outlet; and Old Navy; however, no points are earned when making purchases at Intermix or Weddington Way, nor are points applied to purchases made through subscription services associated with Old Navy Visa cards, which earn 1 point for every dollar spent on all non-Gap Inc. purchases, as well as a 20% bonus point each quarter for each $5 earned by a Rewards member. Maximum rewards issued in any single billing cycle are $250, with points less than the minimum requirement (<500) being applied to rewards for the following billing cycle.
These rewards have an expiration date, requiring consideration when making purchases within the rewards window. Members can redeem up to three rewards in one in-store transaction, while up to five rewards can be redeemed online or on the phone. Rewards can be combined with promotional offers and applied to items on sale. If a member must pay a residual amount, the credit card used to earn points must be used to cover the remaining balance. Points earned but not used for a reward will expire if an account is not active for 24 months.
Fees and Downsides of the Old Navy Credit Cards
Old Navy credit cards have the highest purchase APR in the industry, causing problems if a balance is carried. To avoid this, pay your balance in full every month and on time. If possible, aim for at least the minimum monthly payment to avoid carrying a balance or pay as little as possible to minimize added fees and penalties. Another major disadvantage of the Old Navy and Navyist cards is that they can only be used at Old Navy and the Gap Inc. brand. If you’re a loyal Old Navy customer, this won’t be a problem. But if you’re looking to spend your rewards in a different way (i.e., earn rewards so you can spend them wherever and whenever you want), these options aren’t available here.
Alternative Old Navy Credit Cards (Our Recommendations)
If you’re considering one of Old Navy’s credit cards, cashback will likely be your top priority. Of course, there are other cards that could be even better for you. Chase’s Freedom Unlimited offers 1.5% cash-back on purchases outside bonus categories. Combining Freedom Unlimited with Chase Sapphire Preferred can convert cash-back to Chase Ultimate Rewards, allowing users to book flights and hotels. Old Navy’s credit cards are also worth considering.
Applying for an Old Navy Card
Old Navy Credit cards are available for applicants to apply online or in person. Applicants cannot choose between basic or Visa versions, and the approved card is based on the applicant’s creditworthiness. Fair credit applicants are more likely to receive an Old Navy card, while those with good credit are more likely to receive a Visa card. Navyist cards are not eligible for an upgrade in status but can be upgraded through accumulated points over a calendar year. Some applicants may receive approval immediately, while others may need to review their application for 7-10 days. Subsequent approvals are rare but may occur.
Old Navy Credit Card Login and Online/App-Based Account Management
- Online Management – Old Navy Cardholders can manage their accounts on Barclays’ online platform. Signing up is required, and users can view account activity, billing statements & payments, and set up a paperless statement with bonus points. Alerts can also be set up for added convenience.
- App Management – Old Navy offers cardholders the option to manage their account using the wallet tab on the iOS mobile app. This app provides features like managing cards, viewing statements, setting alerts, paying bills, managing rewards, tracking progress, and linking cards. However, the Android app does not offer the option to pay the balance, but it allows for managing rewards.