The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards
Sunday, June 14, 2026

9 Comenity Bank Store Card Alternatives (May 2026)

Comenity Bank Store Card Alternatives
Adam West

Writer: Adam West

Adam West

Adam West, News Editor

Adam has interviewed over 1,000 finance experts since joining the CardRates team in 2016. He spearheads industry news coverage related to helping consumers achieve greater financial literacy and improved credit. He has more than 12 years of storytelling, editing, and design experience in print and online journalism and is most knowledgeable in the areas of credit scores, financial products and services, and the banking industry.

See Full Bio »
Close
Lillian Guevara-Castro

Editor: Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro, Senior Editor

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of editing and journalism experience to the CardRates team. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, Gwinnett Daily News, Gainesville Sun, and The New York Times, where she covered demographics, consumer issues, and the business and financial sectors. Lillian has a degree in journalism and communications from Georgia State University and brings her fact-checking expertise to ensure Digital Brands content is accurate and engaging.

See Full Bio »
Close
Ashley Fricker

Reviewer: Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker, Senior Editor

Ashley Fricker has more than a decade of experience as a finance contributor and editor, and has specialized in the credit card industry since 2015. Her credit card commentary is featured on national media outlets that include CNBC, MarketWatch, Investopedia, and Reader's Digest, among many others. She has worked closely with the world’s largest banks and financial institutions, up-and-coming fintech companies, and press and news outlets to curate comprehensive content and media. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in multimedia journalism from Florida Atlantic University.

See Full Bio »
Close

Disclosure: When you apply through links on our site, we may earn a referral fee from our partners. For more, see our ad disclosure and review policy.

Follow Us:
5.6k
13.4k
41.0k
4.7k

If you’ve ever had a store-branded credit card, you’ve likely dealt with Comenity Bank. Most people haven’t heard of the Delaware-based bank, but there’s a reason why many people often search for Comenity Bank store card alternatives.

That’s because Comenity’s cards often come with high interest rates and little, or no, rewards. The bank also has a history of false marketing for its payment protection programs that netted the company a $61.5 million penalty from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. in 2015.

If you’re looking for a card to replace your current Comenity-issued plastic, or if you’ve read the reviews and want to find a bank with a better reputation, we have 21 alternatives for you to consider.

By Rewards: Cash Back | Miles | Points | 0% APR
By Credit: Good Credit (670+) | Fair Credit (580-669) | Bad Credit (
FAQs

Cash Back Alternatives to Comenity Bank Store Cards

Since most Comenity-issued cards only have store-specific rewards — if any rewards at all — you won’t find a card that gives you cash back for all your purchases.

With the cards listed below, you can still shop at your favorite retailer and earn rewards, but you’ll also earn cash back wherever else you shop. That’s the type of freedom most people look for in a credit card.

1

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
  • Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
  • No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

2

Citi Double Cash® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) 0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

3

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Many cash back rewards programs allow you to redeem your earned rewards for cash, a check, or as a statement credit toward your current balance. That means you can use the rewards you earn from all your purchases to help pay for your recent shopping trip at your favorite retail spot.

Miles Card Alternatives to Comenity Bank Store Cards

While a Comenity store-branded credit card can make purchases easier at your favorite local store, a good miles credit card, like those listed below, can help you make purchases at stores anywhere in the world. These cards can quickly accrue travel rewards that make trips, whether for business or pleasure, more affordable.

4

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Excellent, Good
5

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $395
Credit Needed Excellent
6

Capital One Venture Business

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn a one-time welcome bonus of 100,000 miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
  • Receive up to $220 in credits: Receive an annual $50 travel credit for bookings through Capital One Business Travel, up to an annual $50 statement credit for purchases at qualifying advertising or software merchants, plus up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years. Terms and conditions apply
  • Unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel
  • Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
  • $95 annual fee
  • Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 24.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Excellent

How miles rewards are redeemed depends on the specific miles card. Some cards allow you to use your miles to purchase flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and other travel expenses. Others let you cash in your miles as a statement credit that essentially erases part, or all, of the recent travel-related expenses you charged to the card.

Points Card Alternatives to Comenity Bank Store Cards

Points rewards cards are like that do-it-all tool that’s always in your toolbox. That’s because these cards accrue points that you can use for a wide array of options. Many cards, like those listed below, offer redemptions for travel discounts, cash back, merchandise, gift cards, entertainment tickets, and much more.

7

Citi Strata Premier® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
  • Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

8

Citi Strata℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
  • Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
  • No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases) 0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

9

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
  • Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
  • Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
  • Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 20.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $595
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Before you apply for a points rewards credit card, make sure you research all the card’s redemption options. Most cards have different rates for different redemption options. For example, you’ll get more value if you redeem your Chase Ultimate Rewards points for travel or gift cards than if you exchange them for cash back.

0% APR Alternatives to Comenity Bank Store Cards

One thing you’ll almost never find on a Comenity store card is a low interest rate. Most Comenity cards come with an interest rate reportedly around 27%.

With a good 0% introductory APR, you can pay off current debt that you have sitting on a high interest rate card or acquire free financing for a large purchase you plan to make.

10

BankAmericard® credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.6/5.0
BankAmericard® credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • No annual fee.
  • No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR 14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good
11

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
  • Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
  • No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

12

Citi Strata℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
  • Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
  • No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases) 0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Keep in mind that every 0% APR introductory period only lasts for a set amount of time. Once it expires, you’ll immediately start accruing interest charges on your balance. That’s why it’s important to pay off all your debts before interest starts building.

Comenity Bank Store Card Alternatives for Good Credit

Many consumers turn to Comenity Bank-issued credit cards because they offer more lenient acceptance standards and often approve consumers who have bad credit. If you have a good credit history, you have far more cards available to you.

With better options, like those listed below, you can rack up rewards and pay far fewer fees.

13

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good
14

Citi Double Cash® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) 0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

15

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) 0% for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% for 15 months
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent, Good

You’ve worked hard to build a good credit history and you should reap the fruits of that labor. With the cards listed above, you can earn rewards that make shopping at your favorite store easier, and more affordable, than with a store-branded credit card. Plus, your new card will work at just about any location in the world — which is more than most Comenity cards can claim.

Comenity Bank Store Card Alternatives for Fair Credit

With a fair credit score (typically between 580 and 669), you have a host of cards available to you. While these cards may feature higher fees and interest rates than those offered to consumers who have good credit, they’re still considerably lower than the rates and fees often associated with Comenity Bank’s store-branded credit cards.

16

Capital One Platinum Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
  • Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
  • Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
  • Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Average, Fair, Limited
17

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
  • No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and you can use your cash back for any amount–get gift cards, cover purchases or redeem for cash. Plus, rewards don’t expire for the life of the account
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card usage
  • Enjoy unlimited access to your credit score and tools to help you monitor your credit profile with CreditWise from Capital One
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases with your SavorOne Card and enjoy exclusive access and cardholder perks
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Capital One SavorOne cardholders can pay with their rewards via PayPal Pay with Rewards and at Amazon.com
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $39
Credit Needed Average, Fair, Limited
18

Discover it® Student Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • No annual fee and build credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 16.49% - 25.49% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 6 months
Intro (Transfers) 10.99% Intro APR for 6 months
Regular APR 16.49% - 25.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Fair/New to Credit

The banks that issue most of the cards listed above also offer cards for consumers who have good credit. That provides a great opportunity for growth, as you can potentially graduate to a better card as you prove your responsibility and improve your credit score. A store-branded credit card doesn’t offer that potential.

Comenity Bank Store Card Alternatives for Bad Credit

Store-branded credit cards often accept consumers who have bad credit scores. Because of that, many people think these cards are their only option, but that definitely isn’t the case.

With the cards listed below, you can potentially access a credit line you can use at just about any location in the world.

19

Surge® Platinum Mastercard®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.1/5.0
Surge® Platinum Mastercard® Review

at Continental Finance'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • Up to $1,000 Initial Credit Limit
  • See if you Pre-Qualify with No Impact to your Credit Score
  • Less than perfect credit? We understand. The Surge Mastercard is ideal for people looking to rebuild their credit.
  • Unsecured credit card requires No Security Deposit
  • Perfect card for everyday purchases and unexpected expenses
  • Monthly reporting to the three major credit bureaus
  • Use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted at millions of locations
  • Enjoy peace of mind with Mastercard Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized purchases (subject to Mastercard guidelines)
  • Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
Intro (Purchases) See website for Details
Intro (Transfers) See website for Details
Regular APR 35.90% Fixed
Annual Fee $75 - $125
Credit Needed Bad, Limited, Fair
20

Milestone® Mastercard®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 3.8/5.0
Milestone® Mastercard® Review

at Milestone Mastercard®'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • Guaranteed $700 credit limit if approved.
  • Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
  • Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
  • Join over a million consumers who are working on building their access to credit.
  • Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
  • Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
  • No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR See terms
Annual Fee See terms
Credit Needed Bad/Limited/Fair
21

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.0/5.0
  • No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
  • Building your credit? Using the Capital One Platinum Secured card responsibly could help
  • Put down a refundable security deposit starting at $49 to get at least a $200 initial credit line
  • You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
  • Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking to access your account from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Limited, Bad

Before you apply for a store-branded credit card, think about your overall credit needs. For instance, if you needed to charge a purchase at another store or service provider, would the store-branded card allow you to do so?

While these cards may sound tempting when they’re offered to you at the register, they often cost you far more money than they save you.

What Credit Score Does Comenity Bank Require?

Comenity Bank is one of the largest issuers of store-branded credit cards in the world. These cards often have very relaxed acceptance standards and regularly offer approvals to applicants who have bad credit histories.

Many people who struggle with bad credit think these cards are their only option for credit rebuilding. After all, if you have a sub-580 credit score, there aren’t many credit issuers begging for your business.

FICO Score® Ranges

Comenity may approve applicants with credit scores below 600, but each card has its own specific approval criteria.

Comenity cards sometimes approve applicants with credit scores below 600.

But there are other ways to build credit without a credit card — and most are more affordable than the sky-high interest rates often charged by store credit cards. While most credit card options will likely include high interest rates and fees, as do most cards for bad credit, you’ll still have the freedom of using the card anywhere that accepts it — not just the retailer listed on the front of the card.

Since Comenity issues cards for more than 145 retailers, as well as several other companies and organizations (more on that in the next section), each card will come with varying acceptance standards. You may qualify for a BJ’s Credit Card, but you may not qualify for a Victoria’s Secret or Zales card, for instance.

Instead of applying at the register when prompted by a cashier, you may want to consider searching online for more information that will give you a better idea of your approval odds before you submit your application at the register.

By doing so, you’ll limit the number of hard inquiries on your credit report and avoid the embarrassment of a potential decline at the store.

Which Stores Partner with Comenity Bank?

From your favorite store in the mall to national retail chains, jewelry stores, and appliance centers, Comenity Bank issues store-branded credit cards for just about every type of merchant. Some of the more popular merchants that partner with Comenity include Bed Bath & Beyond, Camping World, David’s Bridal, and Wayfair.

Here’s a full list of businesses that partner with Comenity:

Abercrombie & Fitch
Adwords Business
Alon
American
American Home
American Kennel Club
American Signature Furniture
Anne Geddes
Annie Sez
Ann Taylor
Appleseed’s
Appliances Connection
Arhaus Archarge
Ashley Stewart
Avenue
Barneys New York
Bealls Florida
Bed Bath & Beyond
Bedford Fair
Big Lots
BJ’s
Blair
Blue Nile
Bon-Ton
Boscovs
Brownstone Studio
BrylaneHome
Buckle
Burkes Outlet
Camping World
Carson’s
Carter Lumber
Catherines
Chadwicks of Boston
Children’s Place
Christopher & Banks
Coldwater Creek
Colombian Emeralds
Crate & Barrel
Crescent Jewelers Inc.
David’s Bridal
Design Within Reach
Domestications
Draper’s & Damon’s
Dressbarn
DSW
Dunlaps
Earthwise Windows
Eddie Bauer
El Dorado Furniture
Express Next
Fashion Bug
Forever21
Fuel Rewards
Friedman’s Jewelers
FullBeauty
GameStop
Gander Mtn
Garden Ridge
Gardner-White
GEM ACCOUNT
Giant Eagle
Gordmans
Goody’s
Hannoush
Herberger’s
Home & Garden Showplace
Hot Topic
HSN
iComfort
Iddeal
J. Crew
Jessica London
JD Williams
J.Jill
Kane’s Furniture
KingSize
Kohler Generators
Lane Bryant
LaRedoute
Lenovo
Levin Furniture
Linen Source
Little Switzerland Jewels
LOFT
Mandee
Marathon
Marianne
Maurices
Meijer
M.E.S.A.
Metro Style
Modell’s
Motorola
MyPoints
My World
Newport News
New York & Company
Old Pueblo Traders
Orbitz
Overton’s
PacSun
Palais Royale
Peebles
Petite Sophisticate
Piercing Pagoda
Pier 1 Imports
Pottery Barn
Priscilla of Boston
Reeds Jewelers
Roaman’s
RoomPlace
Restoration Hardware
Samuels Diamonds
Saturday Night Live
Sharper Image
Shop At Home
Smile Generation Financial
Spiegel
The Sportsman’s Guide
Stage Stores
The Company Store
Tile Shop
Tog Shop
Torrid
Total Rewards
Trek
True Value
UBG
Under Gear
Value City Furniture
Venue
Venus
Victoria’s Secret
Vintage King Audio
Wayfair
West Elm
Williams Sonoma
Winter Silks
Woman Within
Ulta Beauty
Younkers
Zales
Z Gallerie

Please note that the list is complete as of this story’s publishing date and is subject to change.

What Are the Benefits of a Comenity Bank Card?

If you’ve ever shopped at a major retail chain store, you’ve likely had a cashier ask if you’d like to sign up for the store’s credit card. The cashier often talks about the benefits, rewards, and coupons you’ll receive if you’re a cardholder.

Comenity Bank Logo

While those benefits are real, the cashier will rarely tell you about the higher-than-average interest rates and other potential fees you’ll incur.

That said, some Comenity Bank-issued credit cards do offer good rewards if you’re a regular shopper at the store listed on the card. The benefits can include 5% in rewards for every dollar you spend at Bed, Bath, and Beyond or extra rewards points for purchases at Ulta Beauty.

Some cards, such as the Big Lots Credit Card, offer special financing terms on larger purchases and occasional sales for cardholders.

While these benefits may serve you well on your purchases, most limit you in how you redeem them. Rewards points only have value with the retailer issuing them. Special financing terms typically only apply to large purchases of $100 or more.

Even if you have bad credit, there are open-loop credit cards that won’t limit where you use them or how you redeem your rewards. By choosing one of these cards instead of a store-branded card, you’ll have the freedom to spend wherever you want to spend — and redeem your rewards in any way that you choose to.

And since you won’t have to deal with the sky-high interest rates of most store-branded cards, you also won’t have to worry about finance charges ravaging your monthly budget.

You Have Better Options

We all have a favorite restaurant, store, or service. While the cashier at your favorite place may make the store’s credit card sound like an unbeatable deal, there are often far better options available to you.

Instead of impulsively applying at the register, consider one of our Comenity Bank store card alternatives. You’ll likely find a better deal than what your favorite merchant is offering.

Advertiser Disclosure

CardRates.com is a free online resource that offers valuable content and comparison services to users. To keep this resource 100% free, we receive compensation for referrals for many of the offers listed on the site. Along with key review factors, this compensation may impact how and where products appear across CardRates.com (including, for example, the order in which they appear). CardRates.com does not include the entire universe of available offers. Editorial opinions expressed on the site are strictly our own and are not provided, endorsed, or approved by advertisers.