You can explore for a Walmart credit card in two ways: online through Walmart's website or in person at a Walmart store during checkout
The Walmart Credit Card comes in two versions: the Walmart Rewards Card (a standard credit card) and the Walmart MoneyCard (a prepaid card). Both let you earn rewards on purchases, but they work differently and have different approval processes. The online path takes about 10 to 15 minutes and gives you an answer in seconds. The in-store path is faster if you want to use the card when ready, but you still wait for approval while you shop.
You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to start either process. Have your driver's license or state ID handy. If you're explore in store, bring a valid payment method because you may be asked to make a purchase to set up the card.
Key Takeaways
- Online applications through Walmart.com take 10 to 15 minutes and you get an when ready decision, but you cannot use the card until it arrives by mail.
- In-store applications at the checkout lane are processed while you shop and you can use the card the same day if approved.
- Both applications require your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and a valid ID.
- The Walmart Rewards Card is a traditional credit card; the Walmart MoneyCard is prepaid and does not require a credit check.
- Approval depends on your credit history for the Rewards Card, but the MoneyCard has no credit requirements.
explore Online Through Walmart.com
Go to Walmart.com and look for the credit card offer in the top navigation menu or search for "Walmart credit card." Click the link to the process page. You will see two card options: the Walmart Rewards Card and the Walmart MoneyCard. Choose which one you want and click "explore Now."
Fill in your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. The form will ask about your employment status and annual income. Answer honestly — Walmart's system checks this information against credit bureaus. Click "Submit" when you're done.
You'll get an when ready decision on the screen. If approved, you'll receive a confirmation email with your card number and details about your account. Your physical card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your card number online or in Walmart stores before the physical card arrives if you set up your account in the Walmart app or on the website.
If you're denied, the screen will tell you why. Common reasons are insufficient credit history, too many recent credit inquiries, or a low credit score. You can reapply after 30 days, or you can ask about the Walmart MoneyCard, which does not require a credit check.
explore In Store at Checkout
When you reach the checkout lane at any Walmart, tell the cashier you want to open a credit card account. They will hand you a tablet or paper process form. Fill in your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. You can also provide employment and income information if you want, though it's not required for the in-store process.
Hand the tablet or form back to the cashier. They will submit it to Walmart's system right there. You'll get an answer within a few minutes — usually while you're still in the checkout area. If approved, the cashier will print your card number on a receipt or temporary card. You can use that number to complete your purchase when ready.
Your permanent card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can use your card number online or at Walmart registers. The in-store process is faster if you want to use the card today, but the approval process is the same as online.
What Happens After You're Approved
Once approved, you'll receive a welcome email with your account details, card number, and a link to set up your online account. Go to Walmart.com, click "Account," and select "Credit Card" to create your login. This is where you'll check your balance, make payments, and see your rewards.
Your first statement will arrive 30 days after your first purchase. You'll have a grace period (usually 21 days from the statement date) to pay your balance without interest charges. After that, interest accrues daily on any unpaid balance. The interest rate depends on your credit score and approval terms — Walmart will tell you this rate in your welcome materials.
If you have the Walmart Rewards Card, you earn cash back on purchases: 2% at Walmart gas stations, 1% at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, and 1% on all other purchases. Rewards post to your account monthly and can be used as a statement credit or transferred to a bank account.
Differences Between the Walmart Rewards Card and MoneyCard
| Feature | Walmart Rewards Card | Walmart MoneyCard |
|---|---|---|
| Card Type | Credit card | Prepaid card |
| Credit Check Required | Yes | No |
| Rewards | Cash back on purchases | No rewards |
| Annual Fee | None | None |
| Best For | Building credit and earning rewards | People with no credit history or poor credit |
The Walmart Rewards Card is a traditional credit card. You borrow money from Walmart, spend it, and pay it back with interest if you don't pay in full. It reports to credit bureaus, so using it responsibly builds your credit score. You earn cash back on every purchase.
The Walmart MoneyCard is prepaid. You load money onto the card first, then spend what you've loaded. There's no credit check, no interest, and no credit-building benefit. It's useful if you've been denied for a credit card or have no credit history yet. You can load money online, at Walmart registers, or through direct deposit.
What to Do If You're Denied
If Walmart denies your Rewards Card process, you'll see the reason on screen or in an email. The most common reasons are a low credit score, too many recent credit inquiries, or insufficient credit history. You can reapply after 30 days have passed.
In the meantime, ask about the Walmart MoneyCard. It has no credit requirements and you can open one the same day. Use it for a few months to build a payment history, then reapply for the Rewards Card. Another option is to check your credit report for errors at AnnualCreditReport.com (the only free, official source) and dispute any mistakes before reapplying.
If you were recently denied by another lender or have recent late payments, wait at least 90 days before reapplying. Walmart's system will see fewer red flags and your odds improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Walmart credit card at other stores?
The Walmart Rewards Card works only at Walmart stores, Walmart.com, and Walmart gas stations. It cannot be used at other retailers. The MoneyCard works anywhere Mastercard is accepted because it's a prepaid Mastercard, not a Walmart-only card.
How long does it take to get approved?
Online applications get an when ready decision on screen. In-store applications are approved within a few minutes while you're at checkout. Your physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your card number when ready after approval.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You need a Social Security number to open a Walmart Rewards Card because Walmart checks your credit. If you don't have one, the Walmart MoneyCard does not require a Social Security number — you can open one with just a valid ID and address.
Can I explore if I'm under 18?
You must be at least 18 years old to open a Walmart Rewards Card. The Walmart MoneyCard may be available to younger users in some states, but you'll need to check with Walmart directly or ask at your local store.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Late payments on the Walmart Rewards Card are reported to credit bureaus and will hurt your credit score. Walmart may also charge a late fee. If you miss a payment, log into your account and pay as soon as possible. Contact Walmart's customer service if you're having trouble making a payment — they may offer a hardship program.