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Wholesale clubs can help shoppers save money on groceries and other necessities. But do their store-branded credit cards offer savings? What benefits do they offer, and are they worth it?
This in-depth review examines the Sam’s Club® Mastercard®, considering its rewards, fees, APR, features, and more.
5% cash-back* on gas for the first $6,000 annually, then 1%
3% cash-back* on dining
3% cash-back* on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members (otherwise 1%)
1% cash-back* on all other purchases
Use wherever Mastercard is accepted
Annual Fee
$0
APR
14.90% variable (account type 1)
22.90% variable (account type 2)
Late Fee
Up to $40
* For this program, “cash-back” comes in the form of Cash Rewards, not true cash-back.
This rewards-earning card is issued by Synchrony Bank, and while there is no annual fee, cardholders must be a Sam’s Club member to apply. It costs $45 for an annual Sam’s Club membership and $100 for an annual Sam’s Club Plus membership.
Sign-Up Bonus Offer
The Sam’s Club card typically offers a sign-up bonus.
An example of a bonus is that if you open a Sam’s Club card and use your new account to make Sam’s Club purchases totaling $30 or more (excluding cash advances, gift card sales, alcohol, tobacco, and pharmacy purchases) within 30 days of the date of account opening, you will receive a 1-time $30 credit within 90 days after the qualifying purchases are made.
Benefits of the Sam’s Club Card
Image Credit: Sam’s Club
With the Sam’s Club card, cardholders can earn several benefits:
Earn 5% cash-back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1%)
Earn 3% cash-back on dining
Earn 3% cash-back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members (otherwise 1%)
Earn 1% cash-back on all other purchases wherever Mastercard is accepted
Acceptance at all Sam’s Club and Walmart locations nationwide
The 5% Cash Rewards for gas exclude purchases made at fuel stations of wholesale clubs other than Sam’s Club, certain supercenters, and supermarkets.
Cash-back on dining and all other purchases excludes purchases made at any wholesale clubs other than Sam’s Club.
You’ll only earn 1% cash-back on all in-store purchases at Sam’s Club and Walmart, though upgraded Plus members can earn 5% (2% for Plus membership and 3% with the card). With minimal in-store rewards value, there are better credit cards available to maximize rewards for in-store purchases (see the Alternative Rewards Credit Cards section below).
Also notable: the maximum cash-back amount you can earn per calendar year is $5,000.
Hot Tip: Cash Rewards are issued starting in February of the following year and are automatically loaded onto the primary Sam’s Club member’s membership account. Rewards can be used for in-club or online purchases or exchanged for cash-back.
Cash Rewards that aren’t redeemed will expire as of the date listed on the reward notification. Additionally, rewards are forfeited if the member’s account is not in “good standing,” if the member is more than 2 months delinquent on the minimum payment, or if the Sam’s Club membership has lapsed or terminated.
Accelerated Earning for Plus Members
Image Credit: Sam’s Club
Club members who upgrade from the $45 base membership to the $100 Plus membership will see a 4% increase in Cash Rewards on their Sam’s Club purchases, but is the upgrade worth it?
If we evaluate a breakeven solely based on Sam’s Club purchases (not including other earning categories):
Club members earning 1% on Sam’s Club purchases would need to spend $4,500 annually at Sam’s Club
Plus members earning 5% on Sam’s Club purchases (2% for being a Plus member and 3% for the Sam’s Club card) would need to spend $2,000 annually at Sam’s Club
If you are frequent Sam’s Club shopper, upgrading to Plus membership could accelerate your earnings and offer enhanced benefits like:
2% Cash Rewards on qualifying in-club and pickup purchases
Early shopping hours
Free select generic prescriptions
20% off of glasses
15% off Pandora streaming radio
The 2% Cash Rewards have a maximum reward of $500 per 12-month membership period and a membership can accumulate a maximum balance of $2,000 on a membership card. Earned rewards are loaded to the membership account at the end of each membership year (12-month period) and can be redeemed as cash or store credit at Sam’s Club locations.
Hot Tip: It is worth noting that for the Cash Rewards managed by the Plus membership program and the Cash Rewards managed by the Sam’s Club card, each program is independently operated and managed.
Additional Sam’s Club Card Features
The Sam’s Club card offers special features including:
1-card convenience since your credit card is your membership card
Special financing/promotional offers
$0 fraud liability
Enhanced security via smart chip technology
Online account management
Mastercard ID theft protection services
Contact-free technology, including the integration of payments capabilities into Sam’s Club Scan & Go, both in-club and at the pump
A Note About Special Financing
The Sam’s Club card has specific terms and conditions related to special financing. As a cardholder, if you’re going to utilize this benefit you want to pay close attention to the terminology used.
There is a significant difference between “no interest for 6 months” and “no interest if paid in full within 6 months.”
No interest for 6/12/18/24/36/48 months:
When you make a qualifying purchase, no interest applies to the purchase during the promotional period, but minimum monthly payments are still required
After the promotional period ends, regular account terms will apply to the promotional purchases
Purchases made outside of the promotional offer are subject to regular account terms
No interest if paid in full within 6/12/18/24/36/48 months:
IF PAID IN FULL is the key phrase here — this is called deferred interest and it can mean hefty fees if you’re not careful
When you make a qualifying purchase, no interest will be applied IF you pay your promotional balance IN FULL within the promotional period; if you DO NOT pay the balance in full, the interest will be applied to the balance all the way back to the date of purchase
Minimum monthly payments are required
After the promotional period ends, regular account terms will apply to the promotional purchases
Purchases made outside of the promotional offer are subject to regular account terms
The easiest way to avoid these is to be a consistently responsible cardholder. You should pay your balance in full every month. If you can’t pay it in full, the next best option is to pay as much as you can, leaving as small a balance as possible. You should always make at least the minimum payment.
Sam’s Club Card
Annual Fee
$0
Purchase and Quick Cash Advance APR
14.90% variable (account type 1)
22.90% variable (account type 2)
Cash Advance APR
19.9% variable (account type 1)
25.9% variable (account type 2)
Cash Advance Fee
$5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance (whichever is greater)
Late Fee
Up to $40
With the Sam’s Club card, your given APR percentage depends on which account type you receive:
Account type 2 is generally for applicants with lower credit scores that still meet the minimum score required for issuance.
The APRs range from pretty average for a rewards card (for account type 1) to high (for account type 2). However, the APRs can add up, especially if you often carry a balance.
As mentioned previously, the Cash Rewards from the Sam’s Club card are not true cash-back. The rewards come in the form of an automatic credit to the member’s account and can only be used for Sam’s Club purchases — both in-store and online.
There are several ways to apply for the Sam’s Club card. Members can either apply digitally (online, via the Sam’s Club app, or via text message) or in-store at their local club (at the member service desk, at a register (including Scan & Go), or at specific self-checkouts). Members must sign in or create an online account with their Sam’s Club membership to apply online.
Some applicants may be approved instantly (there are many other instant approval cards as well). However, other applications may require further review, resulting in a waiting period of 7 to 10 days.
Generally, a “good” credit score is necessary to secure a Sam’s Club card. Some individuals have reported approval with scores in the upper “fair” range.
Sam’s Club Log-in and Online Account Management
Image Credit: Sam’s Club
Cardholders have the option to manage their credit card account online by logging in at the Sam’s Club online account portal or via the Sam’s Club mobile app (iOS, Android).
Once logged in, members have the opportunity to:
Access account information
View electronic statements
Sign up for paperless statements
Make statement payments
Sign up for account alerts
Request a credit line increase
Alternative Rewards Credit Cards (Our Recommendations)
You can maximize your cash-back by using the Sam’s Club card for gas and dining purchases to earn bonus cash-back and, if you are not a Plus member earning 5% for in-store purchases, select a different credit card that offers a cash-back earning rate higher than 1% for in-store purchases.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® earns an unlimited 1.5% cash-back on all purchases and is a no annual fee card.
Alternatively, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ also has a $0 annual fee and allows you to earn 5% cash-back/5x Ultimate Rewards points on quarterly rotating bonus categories on up to $1,500 in purchases. These categories have a history of including wholesale clubs like Sam’s Club.
The Sam’s Club card provides generous cash-back benefits. With 5% on gas, 3% on dining, and 1% on most other purchases, it could be a decent option for your wallet if you’re going the cash-back route.
However, keep in mind that you must be a Sam’s Club member (with a $45 annual membership fee) to apply for a card and retain your benefits.
You can only get your Cash Rewards once per calendar year, and the program doesn’t offer true cash-back. This is a big drawback for those who want to take advantage of their rewards quickly or utilize their cash-back in any way they choose.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a travel rewards credit card or a card to help you earn more points and miles, this is not the card for you.
The information regarding the Sam’s Club® Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
Featured Image Credit: Synchrony
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on which rewards strategy you prefer.
The Sam’s Club card is generally considered a good card for earning Cash Rewards, with higher than average reward percentages in certain categories. Cardholders earn 5% cash-back on gas (up to $6,000 per year then 1%), 3% on dining, and 1% on all other purchases.
It’s important to note these Cash Rewards are only issued once per year for the previous calendar year and can only be redeemed in a Sam’s Club store or exchanged for cash-back.
In general, reports state applicants need a “good” credit score (700+) in order to be approved for a Sam’s Club card. However, while not the norm, some individuals have reported approval with scores in the top of the “fair” range.
To learn more about what makes a “good” or “bad” credit score and it’s important, check out our in-depth guide here.
An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.
Disclaimer: Any comments listed below are not from the bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them. No responsibility will be taken by the bank advertiser for these comments.
94 comments
Sue Copeland
September 21, 2018
I want to get an app so that I can check my balance on both my Synchrony accounts. Could you please tell me which app that would be. I can check it online, but the app I downloaded kept tell me it can’t find me. I entered my account number and the same password that I use online. Can you assist me?
I do not recommend the Sam’s Club MasterCard. I know that Sam’s Club (or Walmart) does not own the card, but is in a licensing agreement with the bank to issue the card. My issue is that you are at the mercy of the bank and their policies. Example is that I currently have a card (and not for very long into the future). My due date is the 3rd of the month. I made a payment using my bank’s bill pay (an EFT). The bank did not post my payment until the 4th of the next month and hit me with a late fee. Because of this, I will be cancelling the Sam’s Club MasterCard, cancelling my membership at Sam’s Club, joining Costco. I might even report the bank’s actions to the CFPB…
Louise Kidd
July 26, 2022
Will be cancelling my Sam’s Club/Synchrony Card as well. I pay a $45 membership fee to Sam’s and there is NO customer service provided! Synchrony is merely a multi-billion dollar company that does not provide sufficient service as well.
ricardo
February 01, 2019
I have a Sams Club card and enjoy it…. but think twice about the Costco credit card – they are always changing credit card companies. First, they had Citibank then Amex and they’re thinking of changing to BofA or Chase. Also, remember the fees they charge for membership plus late store openings and early closings of Costco.
Alex
December 01, 2020
I have both and I prefer the Costco Visa card. I had their Amex before and was happy with it as well. The current Citi Costco card has a lot more perks than my Sams Mastercard. To name a few there is a 120-day accidental damage protection up to $1k for 120 days in most states, additional 2 years over the manufacturer warranty of 12 months and up. I have used the warranty a couple of times and for accidental damage once on my phone. Very happy with it. Sam’s MC doesn’t have nearly half of those perks. The other cashback benefits are about the same on both. Also, as someone mentioned above, Synchrony is not very accurate with bill payments and can delay it (intentionally or unintentionally) for a day or so sometimes. With Costco Citi I never had this issue since I had the card.
So, it really depends on the experience and, I guess, not necessarily, one is better than the other. So, pick your poison.
Forgot to mention that I am about to close the card. It’s not worth it at all. I get 5% on my Discover for any purchases for 3 months starting Jan 1 – Mar 31, which pays for my membership. I do not need another card to be tethered to the club.
Vann Jones
February 08, 2019
This review is outdated – you no longer receive a check for “cash back.” In fact, cash back no longer exists. You can only redeem your reward for merchandise in Sam’s Club and only at the register by the primary cardholder.
Thanks so much for the heads up, Vann – we’ll amend this article with the most up to date info ASAP!
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
I just redeemed my rewards at Sam’s club for cash. The only change this year is they don’t send you a check but apply your rewards balance to your card.
Hi Jeff, just to clarify, which credit card do you have and was your cash-back applied as a rewards balance to your Sam’s Club account or to your credit card? Thanks!
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
I have the Sam’s Club MasterCard and was able to redeem my rewards for cash the same as cashing the check there last year.
“redeem for cash” meaning the cash came through as a statement credit on your Mastercard? Or cash that you can only use at Sam’s Club? Just want to get this straight so we’re giving people the optimal info here! Thanks so much for your time! 🙂
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
What I meant was I received real cash in hand just like cashing a check at the bank. I had the option to apply it to my account or use on future Sam’s Club purchases according to the letter I received.
Thanks so much Jeff! Really appreciate the info — we’ll get the piece updated accordingly! 🙂
Chuck
March 10, 2019
Hello Erin. Every year I go into the nearest store and redeem my rewards for cash. After reading this comment earlier this year I was going to correct the statement made by Vann Jones. However, I decided to wait for this years reward to make sure that I was providing accurate information. Last week I went in to my nearest store and redeemed my statement rewards for cash. To be clear, I walked out of the store with dollars to spend anywhere and anyway I wanted. The only downside to the reward redemption is having to wait to do it once a year.
Thanks for this Todd – we appreciate the extra confirmation and are working to update the piece as we speak!
Alisa
May 28, 2019
All of this is outdated. You show your membership at the end of the year, they look up your earned cash back (mine was $650) and hand you dollar bills to equal that amount and use as you choose. This has been the case as long as I’ve had the card. I wouldn’t have gotten it otherwise. But it pays more cash back than any other card cash back card I’ve had.
Hi Alisa, thanks for the heads up. We’ll put this one in the queue to confirm and be updated ASAP! 🙂
Katherine Channing
February 28, 2019
I’m wondering who investigates the cash back rewards balance? Curious.
Chuck
March 10, 2019
Each credit card statement reports your starting reward balance and the amount you earned during the month in the 5%, 3%, and 1% categories. You are provided enough information to monitor your own balance for inaccuracies. I have never had to dispute an inaccurate reward balance.
Cynthia williams
January 15, 2020
They still do cash back you just have to go into the store and tell desk that you want cash. I got over $300 in cash last February.
Tim Kelly
February 29, 2020
Actually you can apply the cash back to your credit card balance but that payment won’t satisfy your monthly payment. Still a nice perk. Use cash back to negate interest on card or purchase items in club with cash back.make purchase on card elsewhere and use cash back to pay for purchase. You do have to go to club to redeem to card or use cash back in club. Or you can take the cash and put it in your pocket. Just figure by the end of February it will be available.
Hi Hector – the only information Sam’s Cash Back Rewards terms & conditions give is that rewards are “issued each February for the Cash Back earned during the previous calendar year”. They do not specify a date.
We suggest you call Sam’s Club Member Customer Service number at 1-888-746-7726 or ask at your Membership Service Desk at your local club.
Raymond S
February 27, 2019
Sams Club stores are having problems reflecting the funds transferred by Synchrony Bank in Sams Club members accounts. No one knows when it will be fixed (in Sams Club or Synchrony) only apologies. Probably no adequate testing was made prior to implementation. Checks were better in this instance.
Lin P.
March 18, 2019
We have had the Sam’s MasterCard for 5 years. We were always happy with the card and cash back rewards until this year. Previously, Synchrony Bank would mail a check once a year with our rewards. I could take the check into Sam’s Club and then applied it to our account. In 2019, they changed it up and applied the rewards directly to our membership. Except – when I went to get my rewards (over $500) they can’t seem to match the card to our Sam’s membership account. They said they would have to issue a new card with a new number. That didn’t help! So, after 4 trips to Sam’s, 6 phone calls to Synchrony Bank, I still don’t have our rewards. I’m still waiting for their promised call from a supervisor. I’m now looking for a new rewards card.
Etz
April 04, 2019
Same thing with me, they dont pay rewards and have an excuse every time you call.
McBride Rose
April 14, 2019
Same thing with me. I am still waiting for it to be resolved and am considering a complaint with the BBB on May 10, 2019
Justin G
March 05, 2019
You can use the Sams club store card at Walmart.com and with Walmart Pay. Please update.
Hi Justin – could you please provide a link to information where I can find confirmation of this change? I’d really appreciate it! 🙂
I see in the Synchrony Bank terms and conditions for the Mastercard version that yes, it can be used at walmart.com but can’t find it anywhere in the terms for the basic Sam’s Club card. Additionally, walmart.com’s Help page on payment specifically states they do not accept the Sam’s Club Advantage Credit Card as a form of payment.
Ryan Colombo
September 17, 2021
Do you get 3% back at walmart.com like you do at Sams.com with this card?
Hello Harriett and sorry you are having trouble. Please be advised that we are not Synchrony Bank or affiliated with Sam’s Club MasterCard. We are Upgraded Points, a blog specializing in providing resources for maximizing credit card rewards and travel-related information. Just wanted you to know that your comment is not reaching the right audience but we appreciate you stopping by.
Angel
April 01, 2019
Be careful with the Sam’s Club card from Synchrony Bank. For the FOURTH time, they’ve invalidated my card and made charges fail because they arbitrarily decided to update the Expiration Date and code on the back of the card WITHOUT NOTIFYING ME. Cox is charging me $30 due to the payment failing and Synchrony says they won’t pay the fee even after invalidating the card. No, I haven’t been late even once on payments.
Etzion
April 04, 2019
Do not use this credit card, they will not pay the rewards.
Arnold Isaac
April 07, 2019
Not sure what everyone is complaining about. I’ve been using this card for a few years and have never had a problem. This year, instead of sending a paper check they sent a notification of what my annual cash reward was, so instead of endorsing a check and presenting it at the store, I simply presented my card and they gave me the cash I was entitled to. I know of no other card that offers 5% on gas, and the 3% on dining & travel is also the most I have seen so I use my Sam’s Club MC for those three categories and other cards for other types of purchases.
Lin P.
April 17, 2019
Lucky you! You received your rewards without any issues. My local store told me HUNDREDS of their customers have had problems getting their rewards!
Eddie A
April 18, 2019
Got cold hard cash by the 100’s put in my hand @ my store. Best card ever if you don’t carry a balance.
Cecile Burandt
April 18, 2019
The Sam’s Club Mastercard is a total ripoff in my book! Online, I was hit with a promo offer that ONLY said get $45 off your statement if you apply for Sam’s Club Mastercard. I applied and received an email saying my card was in the mail. I could NOT make an immediate purchase on this card, because I did not receive any kind of temporary card number. So, I assumed that when I got my card, I would see a $45 credit towards my first purchase. Just got off live chat with customer service, who insists I got a temporary card number and says I can get my $45 credit if I now make a purchase and then call them back….otherwise no credit. This is far too complicated and is deceptive advertising. I have destroyed my card and may stop my Sam’s membership because I can no longer trust a company that uses this kind of deception to get consumers to apply for a very high interest rate card.
Nicole
February 15, 2020
The same thing happened to me in February 2020. I went into my local store the next day and Sams gave me the credit without any problems.
JB
April 20, 2019
Beware! Check your balance. I got charged twice for the membership fee. I had already made a payment in Feb and another bill came with due date in May for same thing. I was able to catch it only because I had zero outstanding balance, otherwise, I could have paid it. It’s a headache calling customer service to remove the charge. My call was transferred from Sam’s club store, to Synchrony Bank, then to the credit card billing service. I have been a customer for many years and I don’t understand what is going on now. Glitch in communication? In the end, I was told the store might have trouble with my card when I go in to purchase something. Another headache? We’l see.
Tiffany
May 05, 2019
Don’t bother getting this card. Not once but twice my limit was reduced on this card. I’ve never had a late payment and out of the blue they just lower it without notice. I’m now canceling all of my synchrony cards because of this and will take my business else where.
Fernando
November 13, 2019
Can a Sam’s store credit card be used at a Sam’s in Mexico?
If you have the Sam’s Club Mastercard then yes it can be used overseas. If you have the Sam’s Club Store Credit Card then it cannot be used overseas.
Analea
July 10, 2019
Don’t get this card. Their customer service is terrible. They blocked my card because I’m abroad in Europe, and when I tried to renew the travel notice on my account, their solution was to send me a code, in the mail, to my US address. Plenty of logic right there. The agents refused to tell me a code over email, to send one to my phone, or to email me one, so my card is still blocked. Will be canceling ASAP.
Mick
July 12, 2019
The ‘SAM’S SAVINGS’ credit card (referenced here as the “Sam’s Club Store Credit Card”) has been passed around through several credit companies over the years – SAMS latest is Synchrony Bank. Every firm that ‘offered’ credit to SAMS customers were eager to loan and quick to bite. SAMS latest credit company, Synchrony Bank, has had several class law suits filed against them, with others pending, for illegal credit card practices. Although the BBB gives Synchrony Bank an A+ rating, it is difficult to understand, given the fact that BBB customer complaints are legion and readily answered with the same Synchrony Bank script:
“Thank you for bringing this concern to our attention and the opportunity for customer outreach. We have mailed a written response to the customer via USPS which they should receive within the next 7 to 10 days. We are unable to provide you with the resolution to ensure customer confidentiality. Our contact information was provided in the response mailed directly to the customer if there are further questions.”
One would think the BBB would pay attention to the quality of the customer response – not ‘how quick’ the business responds – especially a ‘canned’ response. Ironically this affects the BBB’s rating more than customer complaints and lack of resolution. What is even more disturbing is the customer (per their testimony) may not even receive the Synchrony Bank “written response ….. via USPS”.
Other Synchrony Bank store-branded credit card bill issues include no information on customer’s bill regarding either the date the bill was printed (store-branded bill conveniently missing the date the bill was printed) OR any post office marked mailing date (store-branded bill’s envelope using presorted first-class mail). Has your billed arrived late? You are tagged with a very hefty late-fee sans any courtesy or heaven-forbid, an apology – You’re just guaranteed guilty. Rudeness abounds, and certainly is beyond the reach of their corporate clients (NOTE: Synchrony Bank provides tons of store-branded credit cards, such as Amazon, eBay, SAMS, Walmart, PayPal, et Al.). My suggestion? Cut up all your credit cards and follow Dave Ramsey’s plan for financial independence. Even then it’s difficult if you want access to a big box store, and are forced into a credit card membership.
Thomas ABRAHAM
July 21, 2019
I signed up for the Sam’s Club Master Card a month ago. I was told that my card will arrive in two weeks. I haven’t received yet. I’d like to know the status.
We are not affiliated with Sams Club. So, unfortunately, we cannot answer that question for you. I suggest you contact their customer service team at (866) 220-0254 to receive an update on your card.
Lisa
July 28, 2019
When did the annual membership go to automatic renewal on Sam’s Club Synchrony Bank Credit Card? I did not sign up for this.
Hi Lisa. Please be advised that we are not Synchrony Bank or affiliated with the Sam’s Club MasterCard. We are Upgraded Points, a blog specializing in providing resources for maximizing credit card rewards and travel-related information. Please contact the number on the back of your card to inquire about the annual renewal.
Arthur Seaman
September 08, 2019
I would like to have the latest copy of my sam’s account mailed to me. How is that possible?
Please be advised that we have no affiliation with Sam’s Club or Synchrony bank. To request a copy of your Sam’s account statement you will need to contact the customer service number on the back of your Sam’s credit card.
Thanks for reading!
James Barcley
October 08, 2019
I will like to know if its possible and How possible I can add an authorized user on my synchrony sams club master card. What’s the processing of adding my wife as the authorized user?
You can contact the Synchrony customer service team directly by calling the number on the back of your card. They would be happy to help you add your wife as an authorized user.
Thanks for reading!
James
October 18, 2019
This information is incorrect. The rewards are truly cash back. Does not have to be spent in store. Only catch is that you have to “redeem” your cash back in store once per year. You go to the customer service desk, swipe your card, and they hand you cold hard cash. Not a store credit. I received about $500 this year and have been using this card for 10+ years.
This post breaks down the two different card options available with Sam’s Club. The Sam’s Club Mastercard, which does offer cash-back, and the Sam’s Club store card, which can only be used in-store. Which card are you referring to?
Matthew Plemmons
November 21, 2019
Don’t switch if you want to keep your credit history on your credit score report that you have built with the original Sams’s credit card. I had the original Sams Credit Card for 14 years and I thought it was just upgrading the card since it was the same company. They closed the old account and opened a new one with a new start date of 1 month, dropping my overall credit history on my credit report. So I lost that 14 years of credit history that has a medium impact on my credit score. I called to see if they could transfer the history or go back to the way things were but they said no it’s gone. I can close the new card but I would have to reapply for the new Sam’s credit card to go back. That’s something that would have been nice to know before upgrading.
B K
December 16, 2019
The Sams Club Credit Card does not play well with technology. It can’t be added to the Apple Wallet for Apple Pay. It doesn’t interface well with Quicken direct connect. When downloading into Quicken it will send pending transactions one day and then again send it as finalized transactions the next day. You will duplicate entries in Quicken and mess up your balance. Your register will have balance adjustments all over the place. No other account or card does this in Quicken.
Kathleen Koziol
December 16, 2019
I applied for a credit card over a month ago and was approved, but I haven’t received my card in the mail.
Andrew Kunesh
December 17, 2019
Hey Kathleen, while we’re not Sam’s Club or Synchrony Bank — we’re Upgraded Points, a travel and credit card blog — we recommend reaching out to Synchrony Bank for more info on your card. There’s a chance that it’s lost in the mail or experienced another mishap. Thanks for reading!
Kiran
January 24, 2020
The Samsclub-Synchrony Mastercard does not provide most of the “mastercard benefits” touted by Mastercard such as lost baggage, trip interruption, 60-day price guarantee, or warranty extension. I was half expecting them to decline my claim because the reason for my trip interruption might not be covered, but I was shocked to learn that no such coverage exists! Mastercard’s mycardbenefits website does not even recognize the Samsclub card number when attempting to file a claim for travel interruption. Synchrony’s customer service directs you to Mastercard, and Mastercard representatives state that your issuer (Synchrony) does not provide these benefits.
David Huffman
February 12, 2020
In a Sams credit car promotion, if we pay our Verizon bill by our Sams cars then our IPhones will be insured against damage or loss. I do not see that repeated at this website. Is this true?
I am not familiar with this specific promotion, and to your point, I do not see it mentioned on their website. I would inquire with Synchrony Bank first to make sure.
Michael
February 15, 2020
If your approved for a same club Mastercard can you also get the store card also?
You are only permitted to have one card or the other. If you were approved for the Mastercard you should be permitted to downgrade it to the store card if you would like.
Valerie Lundstrom
February 23, 2020
I am VERY disappointed with the entire operation of Sam’s Club rebates and Synchrony Bank. Two years in a row I have had big issues trying to use my rewards at two different Sam’s clubs. Each year we received a notice telling us that our rewards were posted to our account and to GO SHOP!! Last year we shopped, after we spent an hour shopping and waiting in line, they couldn’t “find” our rewards. So then we waited another hour talking to the manager (who could see our rewards online but there was a “glitch”) So the manager called Synchrony Bank and we talked them. They were very sorry because they could see the rewards but they would have to look we could not redeem our rewards that night. In the meantime, it is our responsibility to come up with the cash because it takes 2-3 billing cycles to get the rewards posted to our account, really? They see we earned it but we can’t access them for 2-3 billing cycles? With today’s technology, it should take 1-2 DAYS. So fast forward to 2020, the same thing happens. The notice comes and says “We have posted your rewards to your credit card…GO SHOP”. Trying to avoid the same problem, we called to make sure the membership card was linked properly to the credit card and that the rewards were showing on our card to be available to use. Great! Spend an hour shopping, waiting in line to hear the same shenanigans. The cashier, the customer service rep, the manager all scouring our notice we received, credit card info, membership issue. Everybody sees all the information is correct and matching, but NOBODY can find a problem so they call Synchrony bank. We were told again your rewards are showing, but we can’t issue the credit on account for two billing cycles. AGAIN? But they want to issue a credit in two billing cycles so that we pay for all of this stuff we just purchased cash and then they issue $300 worth of credit so that I can go back and spend MORE money in their store. After much discussion, we finally got them to agree to cut us a check. The bottom line, we still have to pay for the items we bought when the bill comes due and it will be about 21+ days for them to issue a check. WHAT A SCAM! You earn the rewards but you can’t get them to use them. They want you to come back and spend more money, basically spending twice the amount of the rewards money! It’s time Sam’s Club finds a new bank to finance the credit cards if this is the best Synchrony can do. It all sounds like a setup! I know we are not alone because the employees told us that they were having problems both years. We are fortunate that we can come up with the extra $300 but what if we did not have that type of cash flow? They said we could not “short pay” our credit card in the amount of the rewards without paying late fees and finance charges. So in other words, they intend to make money on us one way or the other. Their error but they do not take responsibility. So the only other option was to return all the items we spent over an hour shopping for. Very, Very Disappointed with Sam’s Club and Synchrony Bank.
Carol Dilione
March 14, 2020
I’ve had the Sam’s Club Mastercard several years and both times they ripped me off with my rewards. First time it was $25.00, I made many calls they did an investigation and still said I already used the rewards when I didn’t. Just gave up. Received notice of new rewards, went to club to make purchase and clerk said I had no rewards. Called credit card, Sam’s club I went to and long story short they said I used my points on a day I wasn’t in the store. Again doing an investigation. This is bull!!! If they don’t get it resolved I’m cutting the stupid card up and use my Discover, at least I know I’m getting cash back. Not worth the trouble.
Robin
May 26, 2020
I’ve had a Sam’s credit card since 2015. I’ve been working on paying down/paying off credit card debt to raise my credit score/ to get out of debt. Just recently I paid my balance off, and two weeks later I found that they canceled my card because the said my credit score was too low. 100% on time payments for over 5 years! WTH?!
Some of my other creditors have lowered my credit limit as I’ve been paying down. All of this has caused my score to drastically go down bc of my credit card utilization. I have been trying so hard, but the harder I try, the worse my score gets. I just don’t get it.
Erika
June 22, 2020
Can a coapplicant be added with trying to apply for a credit card?
Yes, you should have no problem doing that. Give the customer service line a call via the phone number on the back of your card and they can assist you with setting up an authorized user.
Thanks for reading!
faisal iqbal
June 27, 2020
I am not happy with the Sam’s Club MasterCard. They charged me a fee without informing me (no text message, no email). They also didn’t give me my reward money.
Elena
August 05, 2020
We have had a Sam’s Club Mastercard for many years. Our current card has the word “world” on the front upper right hand corner. Not sure if they all do, or if we have a specific type of Mastercard from Sam’s/Synchrony. One benefit that we have seen is that this card does not charge a currency exchange fee when we use the card to make purchases in a foreign currency, as we sometimes do on eBay. The credit card issued by our bank does charge a fee for transactions in a foreign currency, so we make sure to use the Sam’s Mastercard for any such purchases.
Also, with regard to the cash back/rewards, in previous years, we have gone to our local club and used the rewards toward our purchases that day. We have never had any problems, but we never go right away as soon as the rewards are issued either. Due to the coronavirus, we did not want to shop in club this year. We found out that we could use our rewards by ordering online and picking up our order using Sam’s pickup (where the employee shops for your items and brings them out to the car). I was able to use the Rewards and then pay the remaining balance on our Sam’s Mastercard during the online ordering and checkout process. That worked out great for us, as all of the other options involved going into the club and interacting with a Service Desk employee.
Appala Naidu Arnipalli
September 02, 2020
I have had a terrible experience with my Sams Master Card from Synchrony Bank. I had some unidentified transactions on my account and was told by the Customer rep to close and get a different card. By closing the account, we lost all of our Cash Back Rewards amounting to more than $300. When I called the Sams Club Master Card Customer Service they said that, if the card is closed, all the Cash Back Rewards will be lost. I was not told this by the customer service rep during our call. This is a big fraud concerning the Cash Back Rewards and I’m exploring further legal options.
Mike
September 07, 2020
My wife added me to her account as an authorized user. Now we’re separating. Is there anything I can do to remove myself from the account?
Yes, you can contact Synchrony Bank (who issue the Sam’s Club Credit Card) and ask them to remove you as an authorized user from the account.
Kenneth W Russell
November 16, 2020
I have the Synchrony Bank issued Sam’s Club Master Card, Only complaint is the Bank’s Fraud department. Twice in the past month, they froze my card when I really needed it. When I tried to use it tonight it was declined and I got a text right away and ask me to respond with Y if I made the last two purchases. 1 at Sam’s Club and 1 at Target. I responded “Y” and I got a text back that thanked me and told me if the card was rejected try it again. I did and it was rejected again. I average about $2,000 a month and I pay the balance off each month. I looked on the Bank’s website and it said the account was frozen until I called customer service. They wanted me to verify the same purchases I already verified.
Sara
November 17, 2020
How can I check the status of a Sams Club MasterCard application? It’s been 3 weeks and I’ve heard nothing.
You should be able to call this number 1-(800)-964-1917 to check the status of your application.
Dawn M.
January 21, 2021
My husband and I are both canceling our accounts after nearly 10 years. We found ourselves having to call Customer Service several times each year – something we don’t have to do with other cards. The more minor frustrations include a website that’s frequently down and/or login info that simply stops working. If you’re not using autopay to make payments, you will find making online payments difficult. Also, just a heads up: they took over a month to set up autopay on our account, so be careful not to miss a payment while that’s pending. These things can affect your rewards payout. The bigger issue is their “security verifications.” Expect your card to be randomly declined 1-2 times each year. The security checks are both arbitrary and useless. On one hand, you can spend hundreds of dollars while on vacation in another state with no issue, only to have them perform a security check for a really minor purchase (e.g. $30) at a grocery store you frequently visit. Customer Service isn’t privy as to why these checks take place, and they can’t explain why one of our cards will work just fine at the store, but the other is declined (and vice versa). All-in-all, expect at least 3-4 phone calls to Customer Service each year. Per card.
Robert Arkow
May 04, 2021
Sams club credit sent me a letter saying that my email was no good. I called the number on the letter and after 45 minutes of hearing that my call was important a human came on and verified my email address was valid. I asked her to have a manager call me and she said that they cannot make outbound calls. I thought about cancelling the card but I decided to keep the card and not use it, thus creating an expense for the bank.
Pippa
July 12, 2021
I’m so confused about store issued credit cards. I have an Amazon credit card issued by Chase. So do I earn rewards from purchases at Amazon AND rewards from the credit card use in general? Two separate rewards? Or one? Do all the points I earn apply to Amazon purchases? Thank you!
With your Amazon credit card, you should earn rewards from any and all purchases, including those with Amazon. As far as redemptions go, you should be able to redeem them towards Amazon purchases, cash-back via a statement credit, gift cards, and even travel purchases. I hope that helps!
Kristy
July 20, 2021
I’ve had the Sams Club Mastercard for about 3 months now and I will be canceling it. They have put a hold on my card three times now because they think charges coming through are fraudulent (although they are not), which makes me have to call in and talk to customer service each time to get the card working again. I asked the guy in customer service what I can do to keep my card from declining when they are companies that I buy from over and over again, and he said there’s nothing he can do about it, it’s just a computer thing. My main issue with them is a lack of transparency. I paid off my account to a zero balance the other day because I’m going to shut down my card, but then when I pulled it up again to check, it was at $92. I checked my transaction history and no transactions had come through. I’m thinking the $92 is some type of fee, but I can’t see it anywhere, and they make you wait until a “statement” is available to see fees and interest. This is dishonest and I won’t tolerate subjecting myself to companies that are not transparent in their billing. So yeah, definitely avoid this card, it’s not worth it imo.
Valeryi
August 21, 2021
My current MasterCard is due on 01/22. I received a new replacement card a month ago, i.e. a half year before the due date. The envelope with this new card looked like spam, very colorful, not serious. I did not destroy it.
Is this normal?
I recommend you call the number on the back of your current card and ask the customer service team if they were the ones who sent you that card or not.
Larry Dawson
October 04, 2021
Their dispute department is either corrupt or inept. I will no longer use their card. Don’t look for any help from them if the charge is with a major business.
Simon Templar
March 07, 2022
I’ve been a customer of Sam’s Club since 2004 and recently applied for the San’s Club Plus Member Master Card. During the first month, I used it for most routine daily purchases. Ran up a pretty good debt. The problem was I made a payment on the first bill in excess of $500. They withdrew the money from my bank account but refused to apply it to my account for 9 days due to some ridiculous blip in their Terms and Agreements that stated large (only they know what is considered large) first time payments are subject to a hold. In essence, they accepted my money but won’t credit my account. I understand them putting a hold on a large purchase but this was a payment They got their money. I paid them. I asked the representative of the company to give me a reason why I should keep a card from a company that refused to apply the money they accepted to my account. I heard several times. Sir, in our Terms and Agreement it said we will / might do this. Strangest thing. I will give it a lot of thought in the upcoming days as to why I should want to spend my hard-earned money on this card.
Abraham
July 10, 2022
Sam’s Club Mastercard World Elite in reality is not World Elite as it is excluded from mastercard benefits such as cell phone protection, etc. They sold this protection in 2019-2020 widely promoting it, and silently with tiny tiny text discontinued in 2021!
rogerdpack
August 12, 2022
This card is great for gas.
sam's club hours for gas
September 17, 2022
Sam’s Club hours are no longer less interesting for you as there are many games and events for all ages. Sam’s Club sells everything available in the market for a better price than its rivals. Sam’s Club warehouses have a separate time for plus membership holders to shop from 7 AM to 10 AM, and other members can buy from 10 AM till 8:30 PM. Plus members can also shop on the normal timings and get their products delivered free of cost.
Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!
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This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
94 comments
Sue Copeland
September 21, 2018
I want to get an app so that I can check my balance on both my Synchrony accounts. Could you please tell me which app that would be. I can check it online, but the app I downloaded kept tell me it can’t find me. I entered my account number and the same password that I use online. Can you assist me?
Stephen Au
September 21, 2018
Hi Sue, here’s the app:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mysynchrony/id1280992496?mt=8
Bruce Parker
September 26, 2018
I do not recommend the Sam’s Club MasterCard. I know that Sam’s Club (or Walmart) does not own the card, but is in a licensing agreement with the bank to issue the card. My issue is that you are at the mercy of the bank and their policies. Example is that I currently have a card (and not for very long into the future). My due date is the 3rd of the month. I made a payment using my bank’s bill pay (an EFT). The bank did not post my payment until the 4th of the next month and hit me with a late fee. Because of this, I will be cancelling the Sam’s Club MasterCard, cancelling my membership at Sam’s Club, joining Costco. I might even report the bank’s actions to the CFPB…
Louise Kidd
July 26, 2022
Will be cancelling my Sam’s Club/Synchrony Card as well. I pay a $45 membership fee to Sam’s and there is NO customer service provided! Synchrony is merely a multi-billion dollar company that does not provide sufficient service as well.
ricardo
February 01, 2019
I have a Sams Club card and enjoy it…. but think twice about the Costco credit card – they are always changing credit card companies. First, they had Citibank then Amex and they’re thinking of changing to BofA or Chase. Also, remember the fees they charge for membership plus late store openings and early closings of Costco.
Alex
December 01, 2020
I have both and I prefer the Costco Visa card. I had their Amex before and was happy with it as well. The current Citi Costco card has a lot more perks than my Sams Mastercard. To name a few there is a 120-day accidental damage protection up to $1k for 120 days in most states, additional 2 years over the manufacturer warranty of 12 months and up. I have used the warranty a couple of times and for accidental damage once on my phone. Very happy with it. Sam’s MC doesn’t have nearly half of those perks. The other cashback benefits are about the same on both. Also, as someone mentioned above, Synchrony is not very accurate with bill payments and can delay it (intentionally or unintentionally) for a day or so sometimes. With Costco Citi I never had this issue since I had the card.
So, it really depends on the experience and, I guess, not necessarily, one is better than the other. So, pick your poison.
Forgot to mention that I am about to close the card. It’s not worth it at all. I get 5% on my Discover for any purchases for 3 months starting Jan 1 – Mar 31, which pays for my membership. I do not need another card to be tethered to the club.
Vann Jones
February 08, 2019
This review is outdated – you no longer receive a check for “cash back.” In fact, cash back no longer exists. You can only redeem your reward for merchandise in Sam’s Club and only at the register by the primary cardholder.
Erin Miller
February 11, 2019
Thanks so much for the heads up, Vann – we’ll amend this article with the most up to date info ASAP!
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
I just redeemed my rewards at Sam’s club for cash. The only change this year is they don’t send you a check but apply your rewards balance to your card.
Erin Miller
March 09, 2019
Hi Jeff, just to clarify, which credit card do you have and was your cash-back applied as a rewards balance to your Sam’s Club account or to your credit card? Thanks!
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
I have the Sam’s Club MasterCard and was able to redeem my rewards for cash the same as cashing the check there last year.
Erin Miller
March 09, 2019
“redeem for cash” meaning the cash came through as a statement credit on your Mastercard? Or cash that you can only use at Sam’s Club? Just want to get this straight so we’re giving people the optimal info here! Thanks so much for your time! 🙂
Jeff Jordan
March 09, 2019
What I meant was I received real cash in hand just like cashing a check at the bank. I had the option to apply it to my account or use on future Sam’s Club purchases according to the letter I received.
Erin Miller
March 12, 2019
Thanks so much Jeff! Really appreciate the info — we’ll get the piece updated accordingly! 🙂
Chuck
March 10, 2019
Hello Erin. Every year I go into the nearest store and redeem my rewards for cash. After reading this comment earlier this year I was going to correct the statement made by Vann Jones. However, I decided to wait for this years reward to make sure that I was providing accurate information. Last week I went in to my nearest store and redeemed my statement rewards for cash. To be clear, I walked out of the store with dollars to spend anywhere and anyway I wanted. The only downside to the reward redemption is having to wait to do it once a year.
Erin Miller
March 12, 2019
Thanks for the confirmation Chuck! We’re hearing this from a couple of readers and are working on getting the content here updated accordingly! 🙂
Erin Miller
March 12, 2019
Thanks for this Todd – we appreciate the extra confirmation and are working to update the piece as we speak!
Alisa
May 28, 2019
All of this is outdated. You show your membership at the end of the year, they look up your earned cash back (mine was $650) and hand you dollar bills to equal that amount and use as you choose. This has been the case as long as I’ve had the card. I wouldn’t have gotten it otherwise. But it pays more cash back than any other card cash back card I’ve had.
Erin Miller
May 29, 2019
Hi Alisa, thanks for the heads up. We’ll put this one in the queue to confirm and be updated ASAP! 🙂
Katherine Channing
February 28, 2019
I’m wondering who investigates the cash back rewards balance? Curious.
Chuck
March 10, 2019
Each credit card statement reports your starting reward balance and the amount you earned during the month in the 5%, 3%, and 1% categories. You are provided enough information to monitor your own balance for inaccuracies. I have never had to dispute an inaccurate reward balance.
Cynthia williams
January 15, 2020
They still do cash back you just have to go into the store and tell desk that you want cash. I got over $300 in cash last February.
Tim Kelly
February 29, 2020
Actually you can apply the cash back to your credit card balance but that payment won’t satisfy your monthly payment. Still a nice perk. Use cash back to negate interest on card or purchase items in club with cash back.make purchase on card elsewhere and use cash back to pay for purchase. You do have to go to club to redeem to card or use cash back in club. Or you can take the cash and put it in your pocket. Just figure by the end of February it will be available.
Hector Calderon
February 12, 2019
When do I receive my cash back this year?
Erin Miller
February 12, 2019
Hi Hector – the only information Sam’s Cash Back Rewards terms & conditions give is that rewards are “issued each February for the Cash Back earned during the previous calendar year”. They do not specify a date.
We suggest you call Sam’s Club Member Customer Service number at 1-888-746-7726 or ask at your Membership Service Desk at your local club.
Raymond S
February 27, 2019
Sams Club stores are having problems reflecting the funds transferred by Synchrony Bank in Sams Club members accounts. No one knows when it will be fixed (in Sams Club or Synchrony) only apologies. Probably no adequate testing was made prior to implementation. Checks were better in this instance.
Lin P.
March 18, 2019
We have had the Sam’s MasterCard for 5 years. We were always happy with the card and cash back rewards until this year. Previously, Synchrony Bank would mail a check once a year with our rewards. I could take the check into Sam’s Club and then applied it to our account. In 2019, they changed it up and applied the rewards directly to our membership. Except – when I went to get my rewards (over $500) they can’t seem to match the card to our Sam’s membership account. They said they would have to issue a new card with a new number. That didn’t help! So, after 4 trips to Sam’s, 6 phone calls to Synchrony Bank, I still don’t have our rewards. I’m still waiting for their promised call from a supervisor. I’m now looking for a new rewards card.
Etz
April 04, 2019
Same thing with me, they dont pay rewards and have an excuse every time you call.
McBride Rose
April 14, 2019
Same thing with me. I am still waiting for it to be resolved and am considering a complaint with the BBB on May 10, 2019
Justin G
March 05, 2019
You can use the Sams club store card at Walmart.com and with Walmart Pay. Please update.
Erin Miller
March 05, 2019
Hi Justin – could you please provide a link to information where I can find confirmation of this change? I’d really appreciate it! 🙂
I see in the Synchrony Bank terms and conditions for the Mastercard version that yes, it can be used at walmart.com but can’t find it anywhere in the terms for the basic Sam’s Club card. Additionally, walmart.com’s Help page on payment specifically states they do not accept the Sam’s Club Advantage Credit Card as a form of payment.
Ryan Colombo
September 17, 2021
Do you get 3% back at walmart.com like you do at Sams.com with this card?
Jarrod West
September 18, 2021
Hi Ryan,
Unfortunately no, the Sam’s Club card does not earn 3% back at Walmart.com.
Harriett Ritter
March 20, 2019
Why do you make soooooo difficult to sign in to pay a bill?
Christine Krzyszton
March 20, 2019
Hello Harriett and sorry you are having trouble. Please be advised that we are not Synchrony Bank or affiliated with Sam’s Club MasterCard. We are Upgraded Points, a blog specializing in providing resources for maximizing credit card rewards and travel-related information. Just wanted you to know that your comment is not reaching the right audience but we appreciate you stopping by.
Angel
April 01, 2019
Be careful with the Sam’s Club card from Synchrony Bank. For the FOURTH time, they’ve invalidated my card and made charges fail because they arbitrarily decided to update the Expiration Date and code on the back of the card WITHOUT NOTIFYING ME. Cox is charging me $30 due to the payment failing and Synchrony says they won’t pay the fee even after invalidating the card. No, I haven’t been late even once on payments.
Etzion
April 04, 2019
Do not use this credit card, they will not pay the rewards.
Arnold Isaac
April 07, 2019
Not sure what everyone is complaining about. I’ve been using this card for a few years and have never had a problem. This year, instead of sending a paper check they sent a notification of what my annual cash reward was, so instead of endorsing a check and presenting it at the store, I simply presented my card and they gave me the cash I was entitled to. I know of no other card that offers 5% on gas, and the 3% on dining & travel is also the most I have seen so I use my Sam’s Club MC for those three categories and other cards for other types of purchases.
Lin P.
April 17, 2019
Lucky you! You received your rewards without any issues. My local store told me HUNDREDS of their customers have had problems getting their rewards!
Eddie A
April 18, 2019
Got cold hard cash by the 100’s put in my hand @ my store. Best card ever if you don’t carry a balance.
Cecile Burandt
April 18, 2019
The Sam’s Club Mastercard is a total ripoff in my book! Online, I was hit with a promo offer that ONLY said get $45 off your statement if you apply for Sam’s Club Mastercard. I applied and received an email saying my card was in the mail. I could NOT make an immediate purchase on this card, because I did not receive any kind of temporary card number. So, I assumed that when I got my card, I would see a $45 credit towards my first purchase. Just got off live chat with customer service, who insists I got a temporary card number and says I can get my $45 credit if I now make a purchase and then call them back….otherwise no credit. This is far too complicated and is deceptive advertising. I have destroyed my card and may stop my Sam’s membership because I can no longer trust a company that uses this kind of deception to get consumers to apply for a very high interest rate card.
Nicole
February 15, 2020
The same thing happened to me in February 2020. I went into my local store the next day and Sams gave me the credit without any problems.
JB
April 20, 2019
Beware! Check your balance. I got charged twice for the membership fee. I had already made a payment in Feb and another bill came with due date in May for same thing. I was able to catch it only because I had zero outstanding balance, otherwise, I could have paid it. It’s a headache calling customer service to remove the charge. My call was transferred from Sam’s club store, to Synchrony Bank, then to the credit card billing service. I have been a customer for many years and I don’t understand what is going on now. Glitch in communication? In the end, I was told the store might have trouble with my card when I go in to purchase something. Another headache? We’l see.
Tiffany
May 05, 2019
Don’t bother getting this card. Not once but twice my limit was reduced on this card. I’ve never had a late payment and out of the blue they just lower it without notice. I’m now canceling all of my synchrony cards because of this and will take my business else where.
Fernando
November 13, 2019
Can a Sam’s store credit card be used at a Sam’s in Mexico?
Jarrod West
November 13, 2019
Hi Fernando,
If you have the Sam’s Club Mastercard then yes it can be used overseas. If you have the Sam’s Club Store Credit Card then it cannot be used overseas.
Analea
July 10, 2019
Don’t get this card. Their customer service is terrible. They blocked my card because I’m abroad in Europe, and when I tried to renew the travel notice on my account, their solution was to send me a code, in the mail, to my US address. Plenty of logic right there. The agents refused to tell me a code over email, to send one to my phone, or to email me one, so my card is still blocked. Will be canceling ASAP.
Mick
July 12, 2019
The ‘SAM’S SAVINGS’ credit card (referenced here as the “Sam’s Club Store Credit Card”) has been passed around through several credit companies over the years – SAMS latest is Synchrony Bank. Every firm that ‘offered’ credit to SAMS customers were eager to loan and quick to bite. SAMS latest credit company, Synchrony Bank, has had several class law suits filed against them, with others pending, for illegal credit card practices. Although the BBB gives Synchrony Bank an A+ rating, it is difficult to understand, given the fact that BBB customer complaints are legion and readily answered with the same Synchrony Bank script:
“Thank you for bringing this concern to our attention and the opportunity for customer outreach. We have mailed a written response to the customer via USPS which they should receive within the next 7 to 10 days. We are unable to provide you with the resolution to ensure customer confidentiality. Our contact information was provided in the response mailed directly to the customer if there are further questions.”
One would think the BBB would pay attention to the quality of the customer response – not ‘how quick’ the business responds – especially a ‘canned’ response. Ironically this affects the BBB’s rating more than customer complaints and lack of resolution. What is even more disturbing is the customer (per their testimony) may not even receive the Synchrony Bank “written response ….. via USPS”.
Other Synchrony Bank store-branded credit card bill issues include no information on customer’s bill regarding either the date the bill was printed (store-branded bill conveniently missing the date the bill was printed) OR any post office marked mailing date (store-branded bill’s envelope using presorted first-class mail). Has your billed arrived late? You are tagged with a very hefty late-fee sans any courtesy or heaven-forbid, an apology – You’re just guaranteed guilty. Rudeness abounds, and certainly is beyond the reach of their corporate clients (NOTE: Synchrony Bank provides tons of store-branded credit cards, such as Amazon, eBay, SAMS, Walmart, PayPal, et Al.). My suggestion? Cut up all your credit cards and follow Dave Ramsey’s plan for financial independence. Even then it’s difficult if you want access to a big box store, and are forced into a credit card membership.
Thomas ABRAHAM
July 21, 2019
I signed up for the Sam’s Club Master Card a month ago. I was told that my card will arrive in two weeks. I haven’t received yet. I’d like to know the status.
Jarrod West
July 21, 2019
Hi Thomas,
We are not affiliated with Sams Club. So, unfortunately, we cannot answer that question for you. I suggest you contact their customer service team at (866) 220-0254 to receive an update on your card.
Lisa
July 28, 2019
When did the annual membership go to automatic renewal on Sam’s Club Synchrony Bank Credit Card? I did not sign up for this.
Christine Krzyszton
July 28, 2019
Hi Lisa. Please be advised that we are not Synchrony Bank or affiliated with the Sam’s Club MasterCard. We are Upgraded Points, a blog specializing in providing resources for maximizing credit card rewards and travel-related information. Please contact the number on the back of your card to inquire about the annual renewal.
Arthur Seaman
September 08, 2019
I would like to have the latest copy of my sam’s account mailed to me. How is that possible?
Jarrod West
September 09, 2019
Hi Arthur,
Please be advised that we have no affiliation with Sam’s Club or Synchrony bank. To request a copy of your Sam’s account statement you will need to contact the customer service number on the back of your Sam’s credit card.
Thanks for reading!
James Barcley
October 08, 2019
I will like to know if its possible and How possible I can add an authorized user on my synchrony sams club master card. What’s the processing of adding my wife as the authorized user?
Jarrod West
October 08, 2019
Hi James,
You can contact the Synchrony customer service team directly by calling the number on the back of your card. They would be happy to help you add your wife as an authorized user.
Thanks for reading!
James
October 18, 2019
This information is incorrect. The rewards are truly cash back. Does not have to be spent in store. Only catch is that you have to “redeem” your cash back in store once per year. You go to the customer service desk, swipe your card, and they hand you cold hard cash. Not a store credit. I received about $500 this year and have been using this card for 10+ years.
Jarrod West
October 18, 2019
Hi James,
This post breaks down the two different card options available with Sam’s Club. The Sam’s Club Mastercard, which does offer cash-back, and the Sam’s Club store card, which can only be used in-store. Which card are you referring to?
Matthew Plemmons
November 21, 2019
Don’t switch if you want to keep your credit history on your credit score report that you have built with the original Sams’s credit card. I had the original Sams Credit Card for 14 years and I thought it was just upgrading the card since it was the same company. They closed the old account and opened a new one with a new start date of 1 month, dropping my overall credit history on my credit report. So I lost that 14 years of credit history that has a medium impact on my credit score. I called to see if they could transfer the history or go back to the way things were but they said no it’s gone. I can close the new card but I would have to reapply for the new Sam’s credit card to go back. That’s something that would have been nice to know before upgrading.
B K
December 16, 2019
The Sams Club Credit Card does not play well with technology. It can’t be added to the Apple Wallet for Apple Pay. It doesn’t interface well with Quicken direct connect. When downloading into Quicken it will send pending transactions one day and then again send it as finalized transactions the next day. You will duplicate entries in Quicken and mess up your balance. Your register will have balance adjustments all over the place. No other account or card does this in Quicken.
Kathleen Koziol
December 16, 2019
I applied for a credit card over a month ago and was approved, but I haven’t received my card in the mail.
Andrew Kunesh
December 17, 2019
Hey Kathleen, while we’re not Sam’s Club or Synchrony Bank — we’re Upgraded Points, a travel and credit card blog — we recommend reaching out to Synchrony Bank for more info on your card. There’s a chance that it’s lost in the mail or experienced another mishap. Thanks for reading!
Kiran
January 24, 2020
The Samsclub-Synchrony Mastercard does not provide most of the “mastercard benefits” touted by Mastercard such as lost baggage, trip interruption, 60-day price guarantee, or warranty extension. I was half expecting them to decline my claim because the reason for my trip interruption might not be covered, but I was shocked to learn that no such coverage exists! Mastercard’s mycardbenefits website does not even recognize the Samsclub card number when attempting to file a claim for travel interruption. Synchrony’s customer service directs you to Mastercard, and Mastercard representatives state that your issuer (Synchrony) does not provide these benefits.
David Huffman
February 12, 2020
In a Sams credit car promotion, if we pay our Verizon bill by our Sams cars then our IPhones will be insured against damage or loss. I do not see that repeated at this website. Is this true?
Jarrod West
February 15, 2020
Hi David,
I am not familiar with this specific promotion, and to your point, I do not see it mentioned on their website. I would inquire with Synchrony Bank first to make sure.
Michael
February 15, 2020
If your approved for a same club Mastercard can you also get the store card also?
Jarrod West
February 15, 2020
Hi Michael,
You are only permitted to have one card or the other. If you were approved for the Mastercard you should be permitted to downgrade it to the store card if you would like.
Valerie Lundstrom
February 23, 2020
I am VERY disappointed with the entire operation of Sam’s Club rebates and Synchrony Bank. Two years in a row I have had big issues trying to use my rewards at two different Sam’s clubs. Each year we received a notice telling us that our rewards were posted to our account and to GO SHOP!! Last year we shopped, after we spent an hour shopping and waiting in line, they couldn’t “find” our rewards. So then we waited another hour talking to the manager (who could see our rewards online but there was a “glitch”) So the manager called Synchrony Bank and we talked them. They were very sorry because they could see the rewards but they would have to look we could not redeem our rewards that night. In the meantime, it is our responsibility to come up with the cash because it takes 2-3 billing cycles to get the rewards posted to our account, really? They see we earned it but we can’t access them for 2-3 billing cycles? With today’s technology, it should take 1-2 DAYS. So fast forward to 2020, the same thing happens. The notice comes and says “We have posted your rewards to your credit card…GO SHOP”. Trying to avoid the same problem, we called to make sure the membership card was linked properly to the credit card and that the rewards were showing on our card to be available to use. Great! Spend an hour shopping, waiting in line to hear the same shenanigans. The cashier, the customer service rep, the manager all scouring our notice we received, credit card info, membership issue. Everybody sees all the information is correct and matching, but NOBODY can find a problem so they call Synchrony bank. We were told again your rewards are showing, but we can’t issue the credit on account for two billing cycles. AGAIN? But they want to issue a credit in two billing cycles so that we pay for all of this stuff we just purchased cash and then they issue $300 worth of credit so that I can go back and spend MORE money in their store. After much discussion, we finally got them to agree to cut us a check. The bottom line, we still have to pay for the items we bought when the bill comes due and it will be about 21+ days for them to issue a check. WHAT A SCAM! You earn the rewards but you can’t get them to use them. They want you to come back and spend more money, basically spending twice the amount of the rewards money! It’s time Sam’s Club finds a new bank to finance the credit cards if this is the best Synchrony can do. It all sounds like a setup! I know we are not alone because the employees told us that they were having problems both years. We are fortunate that we can come up with the extra $300 but what if we did not have that type of cash flow? They said we could not “short pay” our credit card in the amount of the rewards without paying late fees and finance charges. So in other words, they intend to make money on us one way or the other. Their error but they do not take responsibility. So the only other option was to return all the items we spent over an hour shopping for. Very, Very Disappointed with Sam’s Club and Synchrony Bank.
Carol Dilione
March 14, 2020
I’ve had the Sam’s Club Mastercard several years and both times they ripped me off with my rewards. First time it was $25.00, I made many calls they did an investigation and still said I already used the rewards when I didn’t. Just gave up. Received notice of new rewards, went to club to make purchase and clerk said I had no rewards. Called credit card, Sam’s club I went to and long story short they said I used my points on a day I wasn’t in the store. Again doing an investigation. This is bull!!! If they don’t get it resolved I’m cutting the stupid card up and use my Discover, at least I know I’m getting cash back. Not worth the trouble.
Robin
May 26, 2020
I’ve had a Sam’s credit card since 2015. I’ve been working on paying down/paying off credit card debt to raise my credit score/ to get out of debt. Just recently I paid my balance off, and two weeks later I found that they canceled my card because the said my credit score was too low. 100% on time payments for over 5 years! WTH?!
Some of my other creditors have lowered my credit limit as I’ve been paying down. All of this has caused my score to drastically go down bc of my credit card utilization. I have been trying so hard, but the harder I try, the worse my score gets. I just don’t get it.
Erika
June 22, 2020
Can a coapplicant be added with trying to apply for a credit card?
Jarrod West
June 23, 2020
Hi Erika,
Are you looking to have someone co-sign for your credit card application? Or do you want to add someone as an authorized user to your card?
Jamal
July 28, 2020
Hey, can I add an authorized user to my regular Sams Club Credit Card? If so what steps do I need to take?
Jarrod West
July 29, 2020
Hi Jamal,
Yes, you should have no problem doing that. Give the customer service line a call via the phone number on the back of your card and they can assist you with setting up an authorized user.
Thanks for reading!
faisal iqbal
June 27, 2020
I am not happy with the Sam’s Club MasterCard. They charged me a fee without informing me (no text message, no email). They also didn’t give me my reward money.
Elena
August 05, 2020
We have had a Sam’s Club Mastercard for many years. Our current card has the word “world” on the front upper right hand corner. Not sure if they all do, or if we have a specific type of Mastercard from Sam’s/Synchrony. One benefit that we have seen is that this card does not charge a currency exchange fee when we use the card to make purchases in a foreign currency, as we sometimes do on eBay. The credit card issued by our bank does charge a fee for transactions in a foreign currency, so we make sure to use the Sam’s Mastercard for any such purchases.
Also, with regard to the cash back/rewards, in previous years, we have gone to our local club and used the rewards toward our purchases that day. We have never had any problems, but we never go right away as soon as the rewards are issued either. Due to the coronavirus, we did not want to shop in club this year. We found out that we could use our rewards by ordering online and picking up our order using Sam’s pickup (where the employee shops for your items and brings them out to the car). I was able to use the Rewards and then pay the remaining balance on our Sam’s Mastercard during the online ordering and checkout process. That worked out great for us, as all of the other options involved going into the club and interacting with a Service Desk employee.
Appala Naidu Arnipalli
September 02, 2020
I have had a terrible experience with my Sams Master Card from Synchrony Bank. I had some unidentified transactions on my account and was told by the Customer rep to close and get a different card. By closing the account, we lost all of our Cash Back Rewards amounting to more than $300. When I called the Sams Club Master Card Customer Service they said that, if the card is closed, all the Cash Back Rewards will be lost. I was not told this by the customer service rep during our call. This is a big fraud concerning the Cash Back Rewards and I’m exploring further legal options.
Mike
September 07, 2020
My wife added me to her account as an authorized user. Now we’re separating. Is there anything I can do to remove myself from the account?
Jarrod West
September 08, 2020
Hi Mike,
Yes, you can contact Synchrony Bank (who issue the Sam’s Club Credit Card) and ask them to remove you as an authorized user from the account.
Kenneth W Russell
November 16, 2020
I have the Synchrony Bank issued Sam’s Club Master Card, Only complaint is the Bank’s Fraud department. Twice in the past month, they froze my card when I really needed it. When I tried to use it tonight it was declined and I got a text right away and ask me to respond with Y if I made the last two purchases. 1 at Sam’s Club and 1 at Target. I responded “Y” and I got a text back that thanked me and told me if the card was rejected try it again. I did and it was rejected again. I average about $2,000 a month and I pay the balance off each month. I looked on the Bank’s website and it said the account was frozen until I called customer service. They wanted me to verify the same purchases I already verified.
Sara
November 17, 2020
How can I check the status of a Sams Club MasterCard application? It’s been 3 weeks and I’ve heard nothing.
Jarrod West
November 19, 2020
Hi Sara,
You should be able to call this number 1-(800)-964-1917 to check the status of your application.
Dawn M.
January 21, 2021
My husband and I are both canceling our accounts after nearly 10 years. We found ourselves having to call Customer Service several times each year – something we don’t have to do with other cards. The more minor frustrations include a website that’s frequently down and/or login info that simply stops working. If you’re not using autopay to make payments, you will find making online payments difficult. Also, just a heads up: they took over a month to set up autopay on our account, so be careful not to miss a payment while that’s pending. These things can affect your rewards payout. The bigger issue is their “security verifications.” Expect your card to be randomly declined 1-2 times each year. The security checks are both arbitrary and useless. On one hand, you can spend hundreds of dollars while on vacation in another state with no issue, only to have them perform a security check for a really minor purchase (e.g. $30) at a grocery store you frequently visit. Customer Service isn’t privy as to why these checks take place, and they can’t explain why one of our cards will work just fine at the store, but the other is declined (and vice versa). All-in-all, expect at least 3-4 phone calls to Customer Service each year. Per card.
Robert Arkow
May 04, 2021
Sams club credit sent me a letter saying that my email was no good. I called the number on the letter and after 45 minutes of hearing that my call was important a human came on and verified my email address was valid. I asked her to have a manager call me and she said that they cannot make outbound calls. I thought about cancelling the card but I decided to keep the card and not use it, thus creating an expense for the bank.
Pippa
July 12, 2021
I’m so confused about store issued credit cards. I have an Amazon credit card issued by Chase. So do I earn rewards from purchases at Amazon AND rewards from the credit card use in general? Two separate rewards? Or one? Do all the points I earn apply to Amazon purchases? Thank you!
Jarrod West
July 13, 2021
Hi Pippa,
With your Amazon credit card, you should earn rewards from any and all purchases, including those with Amazon. As far as redemptions go, you should be able to redeem them towards Amazon purchases, cash-back via a statement credit, gift cards, and even travel purchases. I hope that helps!
Kristy
July 20, 2021
I’ve had the Sams Club Mastercard for about 3 months now and I will be canceling it. They have put a hold on my card three times now because they think charges coming through are fraudulent (although they are not), which makes me have to call in and talk to customer service each time to get the card working again. I asked the guy in customer service what I can do to keep my card from declining when they are companies that I buy from over and over again, and he said there’s nothing he can do about it, it’s just a computer thing. My main issue with them is a lack of transparency. I paid off my account to a zero balance the other day because I’m going to shut down my card, but then when I pulled it up again to check, it was at $92. I checked my transaction history and no transactions had come through. I’m thinking the $92 is some type of fee, but I can’t see it anywhere, and they make you wait until a “statement” is available to see fees and interest. This is dishonest and I won’t tolerate subjecting myself to companies that are not transparent in their billing. So yeah, definitely avoid this card, it’s not worth it imo.
Valeryi
August 21, 2021
My current MasterCard is due on 01/22. I received a new replacement card a month ago, i.e. a half year before the due date. The envelope with this new card looked like spam, very colorful, not serious. I did not destroy it.
Is this normal?
Jarrod West
August 23, 2021
Hi Valeryi,
I recommend you call the number on the back of your current card and ask the customer service team if they were the ones who sent you that card or not.
Larry Dawson
October 04, 2021
Their dispute department is either corrupt or inept. I will no longer use their card. Don’t look for any help from them if the charge is with a major business.
Simon Templar
March 07, 2022
I’ve been a customer of Sam’s Club since 2004 and recently applied for the San’s Club Plus Member Master Card. During the first month, I used it for most routine daily purchases. Ran up a pretty good debt. The problem was I made a payment on the first bill in excess of $500. They withdrew the money from my bank account but refused to apply it to my account for 9 days due to some ridiculous blip in their Terms and Agreements that stated large (only they know what is considered large) first time payments are subject to a hold. In essence, they accepted my money but won’t credit my account. I understand them putting a hold on a large purchase but this was a payment They got their money. I paid them. I asked the representative of the company to give me a reason why I should keep a card from a company that refused to apply the money they accepted to my account. I heard several times. Sir, in our Terms and Agreement it said we will / might do this. Strangest thing. I will give it a lot of thought in the upcoming days as to why I should want to spend my hard-earned money on this card.
Abraham
July 10, 2022
Sam’s Club Mastercard World Elite in reality is not World Elite as it is excluded from mastercard benefits such as cell phone protection, etc. They sold this protection in 2019-2020 widely promoting it, and silently with tiny tiny text discontinued in 2021!
rogerdpack
August 12, 2022
This card is great for gas.
sam's club hours for gas
September 17, 2022
Sam’s Club hours are no longer less interesting for you as there are many games and events for all ages. Sam’s Club sells everything available in the market for a better price than its rivals. Sam’s Club warehouses have a separate time for plus membership holders to shop from 7 AM to 10 AM, and other members can buy from 10 AM till 8:30 PM. Plus members can also shop on the normal timings and get their products delivered free of cost.
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